Liquid level detection apparatus, system, device, method, medium, and product

By setting up first and second detectors in a capacitive liquid level detection device and comparing the difference in their capacitance information, the problem of insufficient sensitivity and accuracy of liquid level detection in small containers is solved, and high-precision judgment of liquid level height is achieved.

CN116558604BActive Publication Date: 2026-03-17SHENZHEN XIHUA TECHNOLOGY CO LTD
View PDF 2 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-05-24
Publication Date
2026-03-17

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing capacitive liquid level detection devices have low sensitivity in small-capacity containers and are easily affected by external or internal environmental factors, resulting in a decrease in measurement accuracy.

Method used

The liquid level is determined by comparing the difference in capacitance information between the first and second detectors located at different heights in the container under test, thus reducing the influence of environmental factors.

Benefits of technology

It improves the sensitivity and accuracy of liquid level measurement in small-capacity containers and reduces the impact of environmental factors on the test results.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure CN116558604B_ABST
    Figure CN116558604B_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

This application relates to a liquid level detection device, system, apparatus, method, medium, and product. The device includes a first detector, a second detector, and a processor. The first detector detects the liquid level height in the container under test and generates first detection information. The second detector detects the liquid level height and generates second detection information. The distances between the first and second detectors and a first target liquid level height line are equal. The processor is electrically connected to both the first and second detectors and is used to generate a detection result indicating whether the liquid level height is the first target liquid level height based on the comparison result of the first and second detection information. The first target liquid level height is the liquid level height indicated by the first target liquid level height line. The above-mentioned liquid level detection device can improve the sensitivity and accuracy of liquid level height measurement in small-capacity containers, thereby reducing or avoiding the influence of environmental factors on the measurement.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of detection technology, specifically to a liquid level detection device, system, device, method, medium, and product. Background Technology

[0002] There are many types of devices used for detecting liquid levels in tanks, such as buoyancy-based, gravity-based, ultrasonic, pneumatic, and capacitive types. Capacitive detection devices utilize the positive correlation between absolute capacitance and liquid level height to measure the liquid level.

[0003] However, in smaller containers, conventional capacitive level detection devices suffer from low sensitivity and are easily affected by external or internal environmental factors, such as changes in temperature or humidity, which can lead to a decrease in measurement accuracy. Therefore, there is an urgent need to provide a level detection device that improves the accuracy and sensitivity of level detection, thereby mitigating the problem of the device being susceptible to environmental factors. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a liquid level detection device, system, device, method, medium, and product that can improve the problem of the device being susceptible to external or internal environmental factors, thereby enhancing measurement sensitivity.

[0005] According to some embodiments, one aspect of this application provides a liquid level detection device, including a first detector, a second detector, and a processor. The first detector is electrically connected to the container under test and is located on the side of the first target liquid level height line along the height direction of the container under test, close to the bottom surface of the container. It is used to detect the liquid level height in the container under test and generate first detection information. The second detector is electrically connected to the container under test and is located on the side of the first target liquid level height line along the height direction of the container under test, away from the bottom surface of the container. It is used to detect the liquid level height and generate second detection information. The distances between the first detector, the second detector, and the first target liquid level height line are equal. The processor is electrically connected to both the first detector and the second detector and is used to generate a detection result indicating whether the liquid level height is the first target liquid level height based on the comparison result of the first detection information and the second detection information. The first target liquid level height is the liquid level height indicated by the first target liquid level height line.

[0006] In the liquid level detection device of the above embodiments, by setting a first detector and a second detector, and ensuring that the distance between the first detector, the second detector, and the first target liquid level height line is equal, the processor can determine whether the liquid level height is the liquid level height indicated by the first target liquid level height line based on the comparison results of the first detection information and the second detection information. This can reduce or even overcome the influence of environmental factors on the detection results, thereby improving detection accuracy. The structure of the above liquid level detection device can avoid the problem that the detection results obtained by independently setting the first detector or independently setting the second detector can be affected by environmental changes. By comparing the results of the first detector and the second detector, the sensitivity of liquid level height measurement in small-capacity containers can be improved. Changes in the external environment include the influence of temperature, humidity, or user operation on the external environment of the container under test, etc. The internal environment includes temperature, humidity, liquid composition, the structure of the container under test, and the position of the container under test in the device, etc.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first detector includes a first capacitive sensor connected to the processor, the first capacitive sensor being used to detect the liquid level height in the container to be tested and generate first capacitance information.

[0008] In some embodiments, the second detector includes a second capacitive sensor connected to the processor, the second capacitive sensor being used to detect the liquid level height and generate second capacitance information.

[0009] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to generate a first detection result or a second detection result based on the difference between the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information; wherein, when the difference between the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information is a maximum value, a first detection result is generated to indicate that the liquid level height is a first target liquid level height; otherwise, a second detection result is generated to indicate that the liquid level height is not the first target liquid level height.

[0010] In some embodiments, the liquid level detection device further includes a third detector electrically connected to the container under test and located on the side of the second target liquid level height line away from the bottom surface of the container under test along the height direction of the container under test. This detector is used to detect the liquid level height within the container under test and generate third detection information. The second target liquid level height line is located on the side of the second detector away from the bottom surface of the container under test along the height direction of the container under test. The spacing between the second detector, the third detector, and the second target liquid level height line is equal. The processor is further configured to be electrically connected to the third detector and to generate a detection result indicating whether the liquid level height is the second target liquid level height based on a comparison result of the second detection information and the third detection information. The second target liquid level height is the liquid level height indicated by the second target liquid level height line.

[0011] In some embodiments, the third detector includes a third capacitive sensor for detecting the liquid level height in the container to be tested and generating third capacitance information; the processor is further configured to be electrically connected to the third capacitive sensor and to generate a third detection result or a fourth detection result based on the difference between the second capacitance information and the third capacitance information; wherein, when the difference between the second capacitance information and the third capacitance information is the maximum value, a third detection result is generated to indicate that the liquid level height is the second target liquid level height; otherwise, a fourth detection result is generated to indicate that the liquid level height is not the second target liquid level height.

[0012] In some embodiments, the liquid level detection device further includes a first prompting module electrically connected to the processor, configured to generate a first prompting signal based on a first detection result to provide a prompt when the liquid level is at a first target liquid level, and / or generate a second prompting signal based on a third detection result to provide a prompt when the liquid level is at a second target liquid level.

[0013] In some embodiments, the liquid level detection device further includes a second prompting module, which is electrically connected to the first capacitive sensor, the second capacitive sensor, the third capacitive sensor, and the processor. This module is used to generate a third prompting signal when a first detection result is obtained, and at a time immediately preceding the acquisition of the first detection result, the first capacitance information is less than the second capacitance information, so as to provide a prompt when the liquid level drops to a first target liquid level; and / or to generate a third prompting signal when a third detection result is obtained, and at a time immediately preceding the acquisition of the third detection result, the second capacitance information is greater than the third capacitance information, so as to provide a prompt when the liquid level rises to a second target liquid level.

[0014] In some embodiments, the liquid level detection device further includes an nth detector electrically connected to the container under test, located on the side of the (n-1)th target liquid level height line away from or near the bottom surface of the container under test along the height direction of the container under test, for detecting the liquid level height in the container under test and generating nth detection information; wherein, the (n-1)th target liquid level height line is located on the side of the (n-1)th detector away from or near the bottom surface of the container under test along the height direction of the container under test; the spacing between the (n-1)th detector, the nth detector and the (n-1)th target liquid level height line is equal; the processor is further configured to be electrically connected to the nth detector, for generating a detection result indicating whether the liquid level height is the (n-1)th target liquid level height based on the comparison result of the (n-1)th detection information and the nth detection information; the (n-1)th target liquid level height is the liquid level height indicated by the (n-1)th target liquid level height line; wherein, n > 3 and n is an integer.

[0015] Another aspect of this application provides a liquid level detection system, which includes the liquid level detection device described in any one of the embodiments of this application.

[0016] In the liquid level detection system of the above embodiments, a first detector and a second detector with the same spacing are set on both sides of the first target liquid level height line, and the liquid level height is determined based on the comparison value of the detection results of the first detector and the second detector to determine whether the liquid level height has reached the first target liquid level height. This overcomes the influence of the external or internal environment of the container under test on the detector, and provides a simpler method for detecting whether the liquid level height has reached the first target liquid level height, thereby adapting to threshold settings for different liquid level heights.

[0017] Another aspect of the embodiments of this application provides an electronic device, which includes the liquid level detection system described in any one of the embodiments of this application.

[0018] In the electronic device described in the above embodiments, the detection of whether the liquid level has reached the first target liquid level height line can improve the accuracy and sensitivity of the detection, overcome the influence of changes in environmental factors, and thus be able to determine in a timely manner whether the liquid level has reached the first target liquid level height. At the same time, it provides a simpler solution for setting thresholds for different liquid level heights while improving sensitivity.

[0019] Another aspect of this application provides a liquid level detection method, comprising: detecting the liquid level height in a container to be tested based on a first detector and generating first detection information, wherein the first detector is electrically connected to the container to be tested and is located on the side of the first target liquid level height line along the height direction of the container to be tested, close to the bottom surface of the container to be tested; detecting the liquid level height based on a second detector and generating second detection information, wherein the second detector is electrically connected to the container to be tested and is located on the side of the first target liquid level height line along the height direction of the container to be tested, away from the bottom surface of the container to be tested, wherein the distance between the first detector, the second detector and the first target liquid level height line is equal; and generating a detection result indicating whether the liquid level height is the first target liquid level height based on a comparison result of the first detection information and the second detection information; wherein the first target liquid level height is the liquid level height indicated by the first target liquid level height line.

[0020] In the liquid level detection method of the above embodiments, by comparing the first detection information and the second detection information, a detection result is generated to indicate whether the liquid level height is the first target liquid level height, thereby improving the sensitivity and accuracy of liquid level height measurement in small-capacity containers.

[0021] In some embodiments, generating first detection information includes: detecting the liquid level height in the container under test based on a first capacitance sensor and generating first capacitance information; generating second detection information includes: detecting the liquid level height based on a second capacitance sensor and generating second capacitance information; generating a detection result includes: generating a first detection result or a second detection result based on the difference between the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information; wherein, when the difference between the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information is the maximum value, a first detection result is generated to indicate that the liquid level height is a first target liquid level height; otherwise, a second detection result is generated to indicate that the liquid level height is not the first target liquid level height.

[0022] Another aspect of the embodiments of this application provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the liquid level detection method described in any one of the embodiments of this application.

[0023] Another aspect of this application provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the liquid level detection method described in any one of the embodiments of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other embodiments can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 This is a simplified structural diagram of a liquid level detection device in a related art provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the relationship between capacitance and liquid level in a liquid level detection device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a simplified structural diagram of a liquid level detection device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the difference d between the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information and the liquid level height h in a liquid level detection device provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a simplified structural diagram of another liquid level detection device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 6This is a simplified structural diagram of another liquid level detection device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a simplified structural diagram of another liquid level detection device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 8 This is a simplified structural diagram of another liquid level detection device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 9 This is a simplified structural diagram of an electronic device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 10 This is a simplified structural diagram of another electronic device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 11 This is a simplified structural diagram of another electronic device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 12 This is a schematic flowchart of a liquid level detection method provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0037] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0038] 10. Liquid container; 11. Capacitive detection sensor; 20. Container to be tested; 21. First detector; 22. Second detector; 23. Processor; 24. Housing; 25. Third detector; 26. First prompting module; 27. Second prompting module. Detailed Implementation

[0039] To facilitate understanding of this application, a more complete description will be provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Preferred embodiments of this application are shown in the drawings. However, this application can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to provide a thorough and complete understanding of the disclosure of this application.

[0040] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein in the specification of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0041] When using the terms “including,” “having,” and “comprising” as described herein, another component may be added unless explicitly qualifying terms such as “only,” “consisting of,” etc. are used. Unless otherwise stated, singular terms may include plural forms and should not be construed as having a quantity of one.

[0042] In the field of liquid level detection, there are many types of devices and methods used to detect the liquid level in a tank, such as buoyancy-based, gravity-based, ultrasonic, pneumatic, and capacitive types. Capacitive detection devices utilize the positive correlation between absolute capacitance and liquid level height to measure the liquid level.

[0043] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The capacitive liquid level detection method used in the liquid container 10 generally measures absolute capacitance. This involves converting the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor 11 into liquid level height based on the property that the capacitance increases with increasing liquid level. However, this detection scheme presents several problems in scenarios with small liquid levels, such as when the maximum liquid level is only in centimeters (cm) or millimeters (mm). First, the capacitance difference between the lowest and highest liquid levels is low, possibly only in the femtosecond (fF) range, making it susceptible to external environmental factors. Furthermore, the capacitance detection varies depending on the liquid composition, leading to uncertainty in the threshold setting rules. Additionally, user contact with the container during operation can affect capacitance detection. Finally, factors such as temperature and humidity also influence the detection sensitivity.

[0044] Based on the above-mentioned technical problems, this application provides a liquid level detection device, system, device, method, medium and product, which can improve the problem of the device being susceptible to external or internal environmental factors, thereby improving the measurement sensitivity.

[0045] For example, please refer to Figure 3One aspect of this application provides a liquid level detection device, including a first detector 21, a second detector 22, and a processor 23. The first detector 21 is electrically connected to a container 20 under test and is located on the side of the first target liquid level height line along the height direction of the container 20, close to the bottom surface of the container 20. It is used to detect the liquid level height h in the container 20 and generate first detection information. The second detector 22 is electrically connected to the container 20 under test and is located on the side of the first target liquid level height line along the height direction of the container 20, away from the bottom surface of the container 20. It is used to detect the liquid level height h and generate second detection information. The distance between the first detector 21, the second detector 22, and the first target liquid level height line is equal. The processor 23 is electrically connected to both the first detector 21 and the second detector 22 and is used to generate a detection result indicating whether the liquid level height h is the first target liquid level height ht1 based on the comparison result of the first detection information and the second detection information. The first target liquid level height ht1 is the liquid level height indicated by the first target liquid level height line.

[0046] As an example, please continue reading Figure 3 The distance L1 between the first detector 21 and the first target liquid level height line and the distance L2 between the second detector 22 and the first target liquid level height line are equal and the distance is greater than or equal to 0. The first detector 21 and the second detector 22 can be located on the same side of the container 20 to be tested, or they can be located on opposite sides of the container 20 to be tested.

[0047] In the liquid level detection device of the above embodiments, by setting a first detector 21 and a second detector 22, and ensuring that the distances between the first detector 21, the second detector 22, and the first target liquid level height line are equal, the processor 23 can determine whether the liquid level height h is the liquid level height indicated by the first target liquid level height line based on the comparison results of the first detection information and the second detection information. This can reduce or even overcome the influence of environmental factors on the detection results, thereby improving detection accuracy. The structure of the above liquid level detection device can avoid the problem that the detection results obtained by independently setting the first detector 21 or independently setting the second detector 22 will be affected by environmental changes. By comparing the results of the first detector 21 and the second detector 22, the sensitivity of measuring the liquid level height h in a small-capacity container 20 can be improved. Changes in the external environment include the influence of temperature, humidity, or user operation on the external environment of the container 20, etc. The internal environment includes temperature, humidity, liquid composition, the structure of the container 20, and the position of the container 20 in the device, etc.

[0048] As an example, please continue reading Figure 3The first detector 21 includes a first capacitive sensor connected to the processor 23. The first capacitive sensor is used to detect the liquid level height h in the container 20 to be tested and generate first capacitance information. The first capacitance information is positively correlated with the liquid level height h and can reflect the change in the liquid level height h.

[0049] As an example, please continue reading Figure 3 The second detector 22 includes a second capacitance sensor connected to the processor 23. The second capacitance sensor is used to detect the liquid level height h and generate second capacitance information. The second capacitance information is also positively correlated with the liquid level height h. However, since the first capacitance sensor and the second capacitance sensor are set in different positions, the capacitance obtained by the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information at the same time for measuring the same liquid level height h is different. The difference between the two increases first and then decreases as the liquid level height h increases.

[0050] For example, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The processor 23 is further configured to generate a first detection result or a second detection result based on the difference d between the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information; wherein, when the difference d between the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information is the maximum value dt1, a first detection result is generated to indicate that the liquid level height h is the first target liquid level height ht1; otherwise, a second detection result is generated to indicate that the liquid level height h is not the first target liquid level height ht1. Since the distance between the first capacitance sensor, the second capacitance sensor and the first target liquid level height line is equal, when the liquid level height h reaches the first target liquid level height ht1, the difference d between the capacitance information measured by the first capacitance sensor and the second capacitance sensor is the maximum, and at this time, the difference d between the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information has the maximum value dt1.

[0051] For example, please refer to Figure 5The liquid level detection device also includes a third detector 25, which is electrically connected to the container 20 to be tested and located on the side of the second target liquid level height line away from the bottom surface of the container 20 along the height direction of the container 20. It is used to detect the liquid level height h in the container 20 and generate third detection information. The second target liquid level height line is located on the side of the second detector 22 away from the bottom surface of the container 20 along the height direction of the container 20. The distance between the second detector 22, the third detector 25 and the second target liquid level height line is equal. The processor 23 is also configured to be electrically connected to the third detector 25 and to generate a detection result indicating whether the liquid level height h is the second target liquid level height based on the comparison result of the second detection information and the third detection information. The second target liquid level height h is the second target liquid level height ht2. Therefore, in addition to working together with the first detector 21 below it to detect whether the liquid level height h is the first target liquid level height ht1, the second detector 22 can also work together with the third detector 25 above it to detect whether the liquid level height h is the second target liquid level height ht2, so as to achieve accurate detection of multiple liquid level height lines.

[0052] As an example, please continue reading Figure 5 The distance L3 between the second detector 22 and the second target liquid level height line and the distance L4 between the third detector 25 and the second target liquid level height line are equal and the distance is greater than or equal to 0; the second detector 22 and the third detector 25 can be located on the same side of the container 20 to be tested, or they can be located on both sides of the container 20 to be tested.

[0053] As an example, please continue reading Figure 5 The first target liquid level height ht1 is lower than the second target liquid level height ht2.

[0054] As an example, please continue reading Figure 5 The third detector 25 includes a third capacitance sensor, which detects the liquid level height h in the container 20 and generates third capacitance information. The processor 23 is further configured to be electrically connected to the third capacitance sensor and to generate a third detection result or a fourth detection result based on the difference between the second capacitance information and the third capacitance information. Specifically, when the difference between the second capacitance information and the third capacitance information is at its maximum value, a third detection result is generated indicating that the liquid level height h is the second target liquid level height ht2; conversely, a fourth detection result is generated indicating that the liquid level height h is not the second target liquid level height ht2. Since the distances between the second capacitance sensor, the third capacitance sensor, and the second target liquid level height line are equal, the difference between the capacitance information measured by the second capacitance sensor and the third capacitance sensor is at its maximum when the liquid level height h reaches the liquid level height ht2 indicated by the second target liquid level height line.

[0055] For example, please refer to Figure 6 The liquid level detection device also includes a first prompting module 26, which is electrically connected to the processor 23, for generating a first prompting signal based on the first detection result to provide a prompt when the liquid level height h is the first target liquid level height ht1, and / or generating a second prompting signal based on the third detection result to provide a prompt when the liquid level height h is the second target liquid level height ht2.

[0056] The aforementioned first prompt module 26 can provide timely prompts when the liquid level height h reaches each target liquid level height, thereby setting one or more target liquid level height lines, improving the user's timely control over the liquid level height h and the sensitivity of liquid level detection.

[0057] For example, please refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The liquid level detection device also includes a second prompt module 27, which is electrically connected to the first capacitance sensor, the second capacitance sensor, the third capacitance sensor, and the processor 23. This module generates a third prompt signal when a first detection result is obtained, and at the moment immediately preceding the acquisition of the first detection result, the first capacitance information is less than the second capacitance information, to provide a prompt when the liquid level height h decreases to the first target liquid level height ht1; and / or generates a third prompt signal when a third detection result is obtained, and at the moment immediately preceding the acquisition of the third detection result, the second capacitance information is greater than the third capacitance information, to provide a prompt when the liquid level height h rises to the second target liquid level height ht2.

[0058] The second prompt module 27 can prompt the user when the liquid is about to run out; or when the liquid is about to be filled, it can prompt the user. Compared with the first prompt module 26, the second prompt module 27 can further meet the diverse needs of users during the process of liquid level rise or fall, and improve the pertinence, timeliness and efficiency of liquid level detection.

[0059] As an example, in addition to the first detector 21, the second detector 22 and the third detector 25, more detectors can be set near the container to be tested 20, thereby enabling the monitoring and detection of more liquid level height thresholds.

[0060] For example, please refer to Figure 8The liquid level detection device also includes an nth detector, which is electrically connected to the container 20 to be tested and is located on the side of the (n-1)th target liquid level height line along the height direction of the container 20 to be tested, away from or close to the bottom surface of the container 20. It is used to detect the liquid level height h in the container 20 to be tested and generate the nth detection information. The (n-1)th target liquid level height line is located on the side of the (n-1)th detector along the height direction of the container 20 to be tested, away from or close to the bottom surface of the container 20. The spacing between the (n-1)th detector, the nth detector and the (n-1)th target liquid level height line is equal. The processor 23 is also configured to be electrically connected to the nth detector and to generate a detection result indicating whether the liquid level height h is the (n-1)th target liquid level height based on the comparison result of the (n-1)th detection information and the nth detection information. The (n-1)th target liquid level height is the liquid level height h indicated by the (n-1)th target liquid level height line. Wherein, n > 3 and n is an integer. In the specific implementation process, any number of detectors can be selected as needed to set any number and location of target liquid level height lines, thereby enabling the detection and control of different target liquid level height thresholds in the test container 20 according to different needs.

[0061] As an example, please continue reading Figure 5 The sampling intervals and algorithms of the first, second, and third capacitive sensors can be further configured according to actual needs to adjust the sampling intervals of each sensor and optimize the algorithm's runtime. For example, when the specific application scenario involves filling e-liquid into a cartridge, the sampling interval can be specifically set based on the needs and circumstances of users commonly using e-cigarettes to optimize the detection effect.

[0062] The aforementioned liquid level detection device can calculate the difference in self-capacitance between the capacitive sensors on both sides of the target liquid level height line using only the self-capacitance of the capacitive sensor. This avoids interference and influence from external environmental factors and avoids the computational complexity of using other technical solutions to improve accuracy in related technologies. Therefore, the liquid level detection device provided in this application improves detection sensitivity and accuracy while reducing the resource requirements of the capacitive sensor in liquid level detection, thereby reducing detection costs.

[0063] As an example, another aspect of the embodiments of this application provides a liquid level detection system, which includes the liquid level detection device described in any one of the embodiments of this application.

[0064] In the liquid level detection system of the above embodiments, a first detector and a second detector with the same spacing are set on both sides of the first target liquid level height line, and the liquid level height is determined based on the comparison value of the detection results of the first detector and the second detector to determine whether the liquid level height has reached the first target liquid level height. This overcomes the influence of the external or internal environment of the container under test on the detector, and provides a simpler method for detecting whether the liquid level height has reached the first target liquid level height, thereby adapting to threshold settings for different liquid level heights.

[0065] As an example, another aspect of the embodiments of this application provides an electronic device that includes the liquid level detection system described in any one of the embodiments of this application.

[0066] In the electronic device described in the above embodiments, the detection of whether the liquid level has reached the first target liquid level height line can improve the accuracy and sensitivity of the detection, overcome the influence of changes in environmental factors, and thus be able to determine in a timely manner whether the liquid level has reached the first target liquid level height. At the same time, it provides a simpler solution for setting thresholds for different liquid level heights while improving sensitivity.

[0067] For example, please refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 A solution for applying a liquid level detection system in an electronic cigarette device is provided. The electronic cigarette device also includes a housing 24, in which a first detector 21 and a second detector 22 are disposed, and a groove for placing a cartridge container 20 is also provided. The first detector 21 and the second detector 22 are in close contact with the side wall of the groove and are connected to a processor 23. When the cartridge container 20 is inserted into the groove, liquid level detection can be performed during the process of consuming liquid or filling liquid to determine whether the liquid level height has reached the first target liquid level height line.

[0068] For example, please refer to Figure 11 The electronic cigarette device may also include a third detector 25, which can monitor multiple target liquid levels in the cartridge container 20 to improve the accuracy of detection.

[0069] For example, please refer to Figure 12 Another aspect of this application provides a liquid level detection method, including:

[0070] Step S2: Based on the detection of the liquid level height in the container to be tested by the first detector and the generation of the first detection information, the first detector is electrically connected to the container to be tested and is located on the side of the first target liquid level height line along the height direction of the container to be tested, close to the bottom surface of the container to be tested.

[0071] Step S4: Based on the detection of liquid level height by the second detector, second detection information is generated. The second detector is electrically connected to the container to be tested and is located on the side of the first target liquid level height line away from the bottom surface of the container to be tested along the height direction of the container to be tested. The distance between the first detector, the second detector and the first target liquid level height line is equal.

[0072] Step S6: Based on the comparison results of the first detection information and the second detection information, generate a detection result to indicate whether the liquid level height is the first target liquid level height; the first target liquid level height is the liquid level height indicated by the first target liquid level height line.

[0073] In the liquid level detection method of the above embodiments, by comparing the first detection information and the second detection information, a detection result is generated to indicate whether the liquid level height is the first target liquid level height, thereby improving the sensitivity and accuracy of liquid level height measurement in small-capacity containers.

[0074] As an example, step S2 also includes:

[0075] Step S21: Detect the liquid level height in the container under test based on the first capacitance sensor and generate the first capacitance information;

[0076] In the above steps, the first capacitance information is positively correlated with the liquid level height and can reflect changes in the liquid level height.

[0077] As an example, step S4 also includes:

[0078] Step S41: Detect the liquid level height based on the second capacitance sensor and generate second capacitance information;

[0079] In the above steps, the second capacitance information is positively correlated with the liquid level height and can also reflect the change in liquid level height. However, since the first capacitance sensor and the second capacitance sensor are set in different positions, the capacitance information obtained by the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information at the same time for measuring the same liquid level height h is different. The difference between the two has a peak value, which can locate the position of the first target liquid level height line and avoid the influence of environmental factors.

[0080] As an example, step S6 also includes:

[0081] Step S61: Generate a first detection result or a second detection result based on the difference between the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information; wherein, when the difference between the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information is the maximum value, a first detection result is generated to indicate that the liquid level height is the first target liquid level height; otherwise, a second detection result is generated to indicate that the liquid level height is not the first target liquid level height.

[0082] The first or second detection result can determine whether the liquid level is the liquid level indicated by the first target liquid level height line, which can reduce or even overcome the influence of environmental factors on the detection results, thereby improving the detection accuracy.

[0083] As an example, liquid level detection methods also include:

[0084] Step S5: Detect the liquid level height in the container under test based on the third detector and generate third detection information; wherein, the second target liquid level height line is located on the side of the second detector away from the bottom surface of the container under test along the height direction of the container under test; the distance between the second detector, the third detector and the second target liquid level height line is equal; the processor is also configured to: be electrically connected to the third detector, and generate a detection result indicating whether the liquid level height is the second target liquid level height based on the comparison result of the second detection information and the third detection information; the second target liquid level height is the liquid level height indicated by the second target liquid level height line.

[0085] The above steps can detect whether the liquid level is the first target liquid level and whether the liquid level is the second target liquid level, so as to achieve accurate detection of multiple liquid level lines.

[0086] As an example, step S5 also includes:

[0087] Step S51: Detect the liquid level height in the container under test based on the third capacitance sensor and generate third capacitance information;

[0088] Step S6 also includes:

[0089] Step S62: Generate a third detection result or a fourth detection result based on the difference between the second capacitance information and the third capacitance information; wherein, when the difference between the second capacitance information and the third capacitance information is the maximum value, a third detection result is generated to indicate that the liquid level height is the second target liquid level height; otherwise, a fourth detection result is generated to indicate that the liquid level height is not the second target liquid level height.

[0090] As an example, step S6 is followed by:

[0091] Step S7: Generate a first prompt signal based on the first detection result to provide a prompt when the liquid level is at the first target liquid level, and / or generate a second prompt signal based on the third detection result to provide a prompt when the liquid level is at the second target liquid level.

[0092] The above step S7 can provide timely prompts when the liquid level reaches each target liquid level height, thereby setting one or more target liquid level height lines, improving the user's timely control over the liquid level height and the sensitivity of the liquid level detection.

[0093] As an example, step S6 is followed by:

[0094] Step S7': When the first detection result is obtained, and at the moment immediately preceding the acquisition of the first detection result, the first capacitance information is less than the second capacitance information, a third prompt signal is generated to provide a prompt when the liquid level drops to the first target liquid level; or when the third detection result is obtained, and at the moment immediately preceding the acquisition of the third detection result, the second capacitance information is greater than the third capacitance information, a third prompt signal is generated to provide a prompt when the liquid level rises to the second target liquid level.

[0095] The above step S7' can prompt the user when the liquid is about to run out; or it can prompt the user when the liquid is about to be filled when the user is refilling the liquid, thereby further meeting the diverse needs of the user.

[0096] Although Figure 12 The steps in the flowchart are shown sequentially as indicated by the arrows, but these steps are not necessarily executed in the exact order indicated by the arrows. Unless otherwise specified in this document, there is no strict order in which these steps are executed, and they can be executed in other sequences. Moreover, although Figure 12 At least some of the steps in the process may include multiple sub-steps or multiple stages. These sub-steps or stages are not necessarily completed at the same time, but can be executed at different times. The execution of these sub-steps or stages is not necessarily sequential, but can be performed in turn or alternately with other steps or at least some of the sub-steps or stages of other steps.

[0097] As an example, this application further provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the liquid level detection method described in any one of the embodiments of this application.

[0098] As an example, this application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the liquid level detection method described in any of the above embodiments.

[0099] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the embodiments described above. Any references to memory, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application can include non-volatile, volatile, or combinations thereof. Non-volatile memory can include read-only memory (ROM), magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash memory, optical memory, high-density embedded non-volatile memory, resistive random access memory (ReRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), phase change memory (PCM), or graphene memory, etc. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory, etc. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM can take many forms, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) or Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM). The databases involved in the embodiments provided in this application can include relational databases, non-relational databases, or combinations thereof. Non-relational databases can include, but are not limited to, blockchain-based distributed databases. The processors involved in the embodiments provided in this application can be general-purpose processors, central processing units, graphics processing units, digital signal processors, programmable logic devices, or quantum computing-based data processing logic devices, etc., and are not limited to these.

[0100] Please note that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and do not imply any limitation on this application.

[0101] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0102] The above embodiments merely illustrate several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosed patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A liquid level detecting device characterized by comprising: The application relates to a liquid level detection device for a container, comprising: a first detector, which is electrically connected to a container to be detected, is located on one side of the container to be detected close to the bottom surface of the container to be detected along the height direction of the first target liquid level height line, is used for detecting the liquid level height in the container to be detected and generating first detection information; a second detector, which is electrically connected to the container to be detected, is located on one side of the container to be detected away from the bottom surface of the container to be detected along the height direction of the first target liquid level height line, is used for detecting the liquid level height and generating second detection information, and the distance between the first detector, the second detector and the first target liquid level height line is equal; a processor, which is electrically connected to the first detector and the second detector, is used for generating a detection result for indicating whether the liquid level height is a first target liquid level height according to the comparison result of the first detection information and the second detection information; the first target liquid level height is the liquid level height indicated by the first target liquid level height line; a third detector, which is electrically connected to the container to be detected, is located on one side of the container to be detected away from the bottom surface of the container to be detected along the height direction of the second target liquid level height line, is used for detecting the liquid level height in the container to be detected and generating third detection information; wherein the second target liquid level height line is located on one side of the container to be detected away from the bottom surface of the container to be detected along the height direction of the second target liquid level height line; the distance between the second detector, the third detector and the second target liquid level height line is equal; wherein the first detector comprises a first capacitance sensor connected to the processor, the first capacitance sensor is used for detecting the liquid level height in the container to be detected and generating first capacitance information; and / or the second detector comprises a second capacitance sensor connected to the processor, the second capacitance sensor is used for detecting the liquid level height and generating second capacitance information; the processor is further configured to generate a first detection result or a second detection result according to the difference between the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information; wherein when the difference between the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information is the maximum value, the first detection result for indicating that the liquid level height is the first target liquid level height is generated; otherwise, the second detection result for indicating that the liquid level height is not the first target liquid level height is generated; the processor is further electrically connected to the third detector and is used for generating a detection result for indicating whether the liquid level height is a second target liquid level height according to the comparison result of the second detection information and the third detection information; the second target liquid level height is the liquid level height indicated by the second target liquid level height line.

2. The liquid level detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that the third detector comprises a third capacitance sensor, and the third capacitance sensor is used for detecting the liquid level height in the container to be detected and generating third capacitance information. The processor is further configured to be electrically connected with the third capacitive sensor, and to generate a third detection result or a fourth detection result according to a difference between the second capacitance information and the third capacitance information; when the difference between the second capacitance information and the third capacitance information is a maximum value, the third detection result indicating that the liquid level height is the second target liquid level height is generated; otherwise, the fourth detection result indicating that the liquid level height is not the second target liquid level height is generated.

3. The liquid level detection device according to claim 2, characterized in that Further comprising: A first prompting module electrically connected with the processor, configured to generate a first prompting signal according to the first detection result to prompt when the liquid level height is the first target liquid level height, and / or generate a second prompting signal according to the third detection result to prompt when the liquid level height is the second target liquid level height.

4. The liquid level detection device according to claim 2, characterized in that Further comprising: A second prompting module electrically connected with the first capacitive sensor, the second capacitive sensor, the third capacitive sensor and the processor, configured to generate a third prompting signal to prompt when the liquid level height decreases to the first target liquid level height when the first detection result is acquired and the first capacitance information acquired at a time adjacent to the first detection result is less than the second capacitance information; and / or generate a third prompting signal to prompt when the liquid level height increases to the second target liquid level height when the third detection result is acquired and the second capacitance information acquired at a time adjacent to the third detection result is greater than the third capacitance information.

5. The liquid level detecting device according to claim 1, characterized by Further comprising: An nth detector electrically connected with the container to be measured, located on a side of the container to be measured away from a bottom surface of the container to be measured along a height direction of the container to be measured, configured to detect the liquid level height in the container to be measured and generate nth detection information; wherein an (n-1)th target liquid level height line is located on a side of an (n-1)th detector away from the bottom surface of the container to be measured along the height direction of the container to be measured; the (n-1)th detector, the nth detector and the (n-1)th target liquid level height line have equal spacing; The processor is further configured to be electrically connected with the nth detector, and to generate a detection result indicating whether the liquid level height is an (n-1)th target liquid level height according to a comparison result of (n-1)th detection information and the nth detection information; the (n-1)th target liquid level height is a liquid level height indicated by the (n-1)th target liquid level height line; Wherein, n>3 and n is an integer.

6. A liquid level detection system characterized by, The liquid level detection device of any one of claims 1-5.

7. An electronic device, characterized by The liquid level detection system of claim 6.

8. A liquid level detection method, characterized by, Including: The first detector detects the liquid level in the container to be measured and generates first detection information. The first detector is electrically connected to the container to be measured and is located on one side of the first target liquid level line close to the bottom surface of the container to be measured in the height direction of the container to be measured. The first detection information is generated by detecting the liquid level in the container to be measured based on the first capacitive sensor and generating first capacitance information. The second detector detects the liquid level and generates second detection information. The second detector is electrically connected to the container to be measured and is located on one side of the first target liquid level line away from the bottom surface of the container to be measured in the height direction of the container to be measured. The first detector and the second detector are equidistant from the first target liquid level line. The second detection information is generated by detecting the liquid level based on the second capacitive sensor and generating second capacitance information. The third detector detects the liquid level in the container to be measured and generates third detection information. The third detector is electrically connected to the container to be measured and is located on one side of the second target liquid level line away from the bottom surface of the container to be measured in the height direction of the container to be measured. The second detector and the third detector are equidistant from the second target liquid level line. The second target liquid level line is located on one side of the second detector away from the bottom surface of the container to be measured in the height direction of the container to be measured. The first detection information and the second detection information are compared to generate a detection result indicating whether the liquid level is a first target liquid level. The first target liquid level is indicated by the first target liquid level line. The detection result is generated by comparing the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information to generate a first detection result or a second detection result. When the difference between the first capacitance information and the second capacitance information is the maximum value, the first detection result indicating that the liquid level is the first target liquid level is generated. Otherwise, the second detection result indicating that the liquid level is not the first target liquid level is generated. The second detection information and the third detection information are compared to generate a detection result indicating whether the liquid level is a second target liquid level. The second target liquid level is indicated by the second target liquid level line.

9. A computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon a computer program, characterized in that, The computer program is executed by the processor to implement the steps of the liquid level detection method described in claim 8.

10. A computer program product comprising a computer program, characterized in that, The computer program is executed by the processor to implement the steps of the liquid level detection method described in claim 8.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Online monitoring system and method for water content in reflux material of trichloroethylene desorber

    CN110108764A

  • Liquid level position sensor, liquid level position detection method, and program

    JP2022015690A