Pet feeding systems and feeding methods

Abstract

This invention discloses a pet feeding system and method, belonging to the technical field of pet feeding. It includes a feed hopper, a vacuum assembly, and a food conveying and weighing mechanism. The feed hopper has a food storage compartment, a sealing plate, and a food outlet, with the outlet connected to the storage compartment. The sealing plate is movably disposed at the outlet. The vacuum assembly is installed in the feed hopper, with its first end located inside the feed hopper and connected to the storage compartment. The food conveying and weighing mechanism includes a food bowl and a weighing device. The food bowl is mounted on the weighing device, with its trough located below the food outlet. The weighing device is installed inside the feed hopper. In a first movable position, the trough of the food bowl is at least partially obscured by the feed hopper. In a second movable position, the weighing device weighs the food in the food bowl. By placing the trough of the food bowl below the food outlet and mounting the food bowl on the weighing device, the pet feeding system has the function of storing and feeding food, improving the incompatibility between food storage and feeding.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the technical field of pet feeding, and in particular to a pet feeding system and feeding method. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, most feeders have desiccant packs on their top covers to prevent feed from getting damp, spoiling, or molding. These desiccant packs reduce humidity inside the feed container, keeping the feed dry. However, desiccant packs are consumables and will become ineffective after a period of use, requiring users to purchase and replace them, increasing their burden. Furthermore, if users don't replace them promptly, the feed is likely to spoil or mold.

[0003] Furthermore, feed preservation and feeding are generally separated. Feed preservation typically uses sealed containers to reduce microbial growth within the container, thereby extending the feed's shelf life. Especially in pet feeding, feed and feeding are usually handled by two separate systems. Because the equipment for feed preservation and feeding has different functions, they are incompatible, require significant space, and are manufactured separately, resulting in higher costs and failing to achieve resource conservation. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to improve the incompatibility between feed preservation and feed feeding, and to provide a pet feeding system and feeding method.

[0005] The technical solutions for achieving the above objectives include the following:

[0006] A pet feeding system, comprising:

[0007] A feed cylinder, the feed cylinder having a grain storage bin, a sealing plate and a grain outlet, the grain outlet being connected to the grain storage bin, and the sealing plate being movably disposed at the grain outlet;

[0008] A vacuum assembly is installed in a feed cylinder. The first end of the vacuum assembly is located inside the feed cylinder and communicates with the grain storage chamber, while the second end of the vacuum assembly is located outside the feed cylinder.

[0009] A grain conveying and weighing mechanism includes a feeding basin and a weighing device. The feeding basin is mounted on the weighing device, with the feeding trough of the feeding basin located below the grain outlet. The weighing device is installed inside a feed cylinder. In a first direction, the feeding basin has a first movable position and a second movable position. In the first movable position, the feeding trough of the feeding basin is at least partially obstructed by the feed cylinder. In the second movable position, the weighing device is used to weigh the feed in the feeding basin.

[0010] In one embodiment, the feed hopper has an outlet and a sealing strip, the sealing strip extending circumferentially along the outlet; a gap exists between the feed trough and the feed hopper, and the sealing strip is located in the gap;

[0011] In the first movable position, at least a portion of the food bowl is in contact with the sealing strip; in the second movable position, the food bowl is separated from the sealing strip.

[0012] In one embodiment, the feeding trough has a third movable position in which the feeding trough of the feeding trough is at least partially exposed relative to the feed canister.

[0013] In one embodiment, the pet feeding system further includes a drive mechanism, which includes a support base, a first drive member, a first transmission assembly, and a second transmission assembly. The food bowl is located on the support base, the first drive member is mounted on the support base, the support base is mounted on a weighing device, the first transmission assembly is mounted on the output end of the first drive member, the first end of the second transmission assembly cooperates with the first transmission assembly, and the second end of the second transmission assembly cooperates with the food bowl.

[0014] In one embodiment, the first transmission assembly includes a first driving wheel and a first driven wheel, and the second transmission assembly includes a first support block, a lead screw, and a moving block.

[0015] The first driving wheel is mounted on the first driving member, the first end of the first driven wheel is mounted on the lead screw, and the second end of the first driven wheel meshes with the first driving wheel;

[0016] The lead screw extends along a first direction, the first support block is sleeved on the outside of the lead screw and threadedly engaged with the lead screw; the first end of the movable block is mounted on the first support block, and the second end of the movable block engages with the food bowl;

[0017] The support base has a guide rail that extends along a first direction, and the moving block slides in cooperation with the guide rail.

[0018] In one embodiment, the vacuum assembly includes an air pump, a first air pipe, and a second air pipe. The air pump is mounted on the feed cylinder. The first end of the first air pipe is located outside the feed cylinder, and the second end of the first air pipe is installed inside the feed cylinder and communicates with the grain storage bin. The first end of the second air pipe is connected to the air pump, and the second end of the second air pipe is installed inside the feed cylinder and communicates with the grain storage bin.

[0019] In one embodiment, the pet feeding system further includes a second drive unit and a rotating shaft. The second drive unit is mounted on the feed hopper, the rotating shaft is mounted on the output end of the second drive unit, and the sealing plate is sleeved around the rotating shaft and located at the feed outlet.

[0020] The present invention also proposes a feeding method, characterized by comprising the following steps:

[0021] Step 1: Turn off the vacuum assembly and open the pressure relief valve. Air from outside the feed cylinder enters the grain storage bin, and the air pressure inside and outside the feed cylinder becomes the same.

[0022] Step 2: Move the sealing plate and open the grain outlet. The feed in the grain storage bin will fall from the grain outlet into the feeding trough.

[0023] Step 3: Move the feeding trough to create a gap between the feeding trough and the feed container;

[0024] Step 4: Weigh the feed in the feeding trough using a weighing device;

[0025] Step 5: Drive the feed trough to move again so that at least part of the feed trough is exposed relative to the feed canister.

[0026] In one embodiment, the following steps are further included after feeding:

[0027] Drive the feed trough to move into the feed cylinder, at least partially blocking the feed trough of the feed trough, move the sealing plate and close the feed outlet;

[0028] Activate the vacuum assembly to create a negative pressure vacuum in the grain storage compartment of the feed hopper.

[0029] In one embodiment, the following steps are also included: after the weigher weighs the feed in the feeding trough, when the actual value obtained by the weigher reaches the preset value, the drive mechanism drives the feeding trough again.

[0030] The technical solution provided by this invention has the following advantages and effects:

[0031] A vacuum assembly is installed, with its two ends connected to the food storage chamber and the outside of the feed hopper, respectively. A sealing plate seals the food outlet in the food storage chamber, and the vacuum assembly removes air from the chamber, extending the storage time of the feed. When feeding is needed, the vacuum assembly is closed, allowing air from outside the feed hopper to enter the storage chamber. The sealing plate is then opened, and the feed falls from the outlet into the trough. The trough moves to a second position, where a weighing device weighs the feed inside the feed hopper. In the first position, the trough of the trough is at least partially obscured by the feed hopper, effectively concealing the trough within it. Feeding ends when the trough is inside the feed hopper. By placing the trough below the food outlet, mounting the trough on the weighing device, and providing both first and second moving positions, the pet feeding system combines food storage and feeding functions. Furthermore, the trough, weighing device, and vacuum assembly are all located within the feed hopper, addressing the incompatibility between food storage and feeding. Attached Figure Description

[0032] The accompanying drawings illustrate specific examples of the technical solutions described in this invention and, together with the detailed embodiments, form part of the specification, serving to explain the technical solutions, principles, and effects of this invention.

[0033] Unless otherwise specified or defined, the same reference numerals in different figures represent the same or similar technical features, and different reference numerals may be used to represent the same or similar technical features.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pet feeder in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 2 This is a front view of the pet feeder in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the pet feeder in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0037] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the pet feeder in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the interior of the pet feeder in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection of the drive mechanism, the food bowl, and the weighing device in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the driving mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the support base and the moving block in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the pressure relief component and the first air pipe in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the grain dispensing mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0044] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the grain dispensing mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0045] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the grain dispensing mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 ;

[0046] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the grain dispensing mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 ;

[0047] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the grain dispensing mechanism and the feed cylinder in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0048] Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view of the grain dispensing mechanism and the feed cylinder in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0049] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the grain dispensing mechanism and the second housing in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the food bowl in different positions in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0052] 100. Pet feeder; 1. Base; 101. Feeding station;

[0053] 10. Grain weighing mechanism; 11. Protective cover; 12. Feeding basin; 121. Second magnetic chuck; 13. Drive mechanism; 131. Second drive component; 132. First transmission assembly; 1321. First driving wheel; 1322. First driven wheel; 14. Weighing device; 15. Second transmission assembly; 151. First support block; 152. Lead screw; 153. Second support block; 154. Moving block; 155. First magnetic chuck; 16. Support base; 161. Guide rail;

[0054] 20. Sealing mechanism; 21. Air inlet; 22. Pressure relief component; 23. Sealing plate; 24. Grain outlet; 25. Vacuum assembly; 251. First air pipe; 252. Second air pipe; 253. Air pump; 26. First drive component; 27. Rotating shaft;

[0055] 30. Grain dispensing mechanism; 32. Support frame; 33. Third driving component; 34. Third transmission assembly; 341. Second driving wheel; 342. Second driven wheel; 343. First transmission belt; 35. Fourth transmission assembly; 351. Second transmission belt; 352. Third driven wheel; 36. Worm gear; 37. Drive wheel; 38. First actuating component; 39. Transmission shaft; 301. Second actuating component;

[0056] 2. Feed hopper; 201. Outlet; 202. Grain storage bin; 203. Guide chute; 204. Through port; 205. First shell; 2051. Partition; 206. Second shell; 207. Grain storage chamber; 208. Grain discharging chamber; 209. Third shell; 3. Top cover; 4. Sealing strip;

[0057] 40. First moving position; 50. Second moving position; 60. Third moving position. Detailed Implementation

[0058] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0059] Unless otherwise specified or defined, the terms "first," "second," etc., used in this document are for distinguishing names only and do not represent a specific number or order.

[0060] Unless otherwise stated or defined, the term “and / or” as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0061] It should be noted that when a component is considered "fixed" to another component, it can be directly fixed to the other component or there can be an intervening component; when a component is considered "connected" to another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there can be an intervening component; when a component is considered "mounted" on another component, it can be directly mounted on the other component or there can be an intervening component; when a component is considered "placed" on another component, it can be directly placed on the other component or there can be an intervening component.

[0062] Example 1

[0063] like Figures 1 to 8As shown, a pet feeder 100 includes: a feed hopper 2, a vacuum assembly 25, and a food conveying and weighing mechanism 10. The feed hopper 2 has a food storage chamber 202, a sealing plate 23, and a food outlet 24. The food outlet 24 is connected to the food storage chamber 202, and the sealing plate 23 is movably disposed at the food outlet 24. The vacuum assembly 25 is installed in the feed hopper 2. The first end of the vacuum assembly 25 is located inside the feed hopper 2 and is connected to the food storage chamber 202, while the second end of the vacuum assembly 25 is located outside the feed hopper 2. The grain weighing mechanism 10 includes a feeding basin 12 and a weighing device 14. The feeding basin 12 is mounted on the weighing device 14, and the feeding trough of the feeding basin 12 is located below the grain outlet 24. The weighing device 14 is installed inside the feed cylinder 2. In a first direction, the feeding basin 12 has a first moving position 40 and a second moving position 50. In the first moving position 40, the feeding trough of the feeding basin 12 is at least partially blocked by the feed cylinder 2. In the second moving position 50, the weighing device 14 is used to weigh the feed in the feeding basin 12. The vacuum assembly 25 is connected to the grain storage chamber 202 and the feed hopper 2 at both ends. The grain outlet 24 is sealed by the sealing plate 23. The vacuum assembly 25 is then used to evacuate the air from the grain storage chamber 202, thereby extending the storage time of the feed in the grain storage chamber 202. When feeding is required, the vacuum assembly 25 is closed to allow air from outside the feed hopper 2 to enter the grain storage chamber 202. The sealing plate 23 is opened, and the feed falls from the grain outlet 24 into the feed trough. The feed bowl 12 moves to the second moving position 50. The weighing device 14 weighs the feed in the feed bowl 12 and is set inside the feed hopper 2. The feed bowl 12 is in the first moving position 40, and at least part of the feed trough of the feed bowl 12 is covered by the feed hopper 2, so that the feed bowl 12 is hidden inside the feed hopper 2. When the feed bowl 12 moves into the feed hopper 2, the feeding ends.

[0064] By placing the food trough of the food bowl 12 below the food outlet 24, mounting the food bowl 12 on the weighing device 14, and having the food bowl 12 with a first moving position 40 and a second moving position 50, the pet feeder 100 has the function of storing and feeding food. Moreover, the food bowl 12, the weighing device 14, and the vacuum assembly 25 are all mounted on the feed cylinder 2, which improves the problem of incompatibility between food storage and feeding.

[0065] In this embodiment, the pet feeding system 100 has a controller, which is electrically connected to the second drive member 131, the first drive member 26, the third drive member 33, the pressure relief valve, and the air pump 253. The pet feeding system 100 operates as follows: when the actual value monitored by the pressure relief valve is within the range where the food storage chamber 202 is under vacuum, the pressure relief valve, through the controller, closes the third drive member 33, and the pet feeder 100 is in a non-feeding cycle. When the pressure relief valve opens, the food storage chamber 202 is in a non-vacuum state, and the actual value monitored by the pressure relief valve is within the range of non-vacuum conditions. The pressure relief valve then drives the third drive member 33, simultaneously opening the food outlet 24, causing the food dispensing mechanism 30 to drive the feed into the food trough of the food bowl 12. At this point, the feeding mechanism 30 completes the feeding operation, and the pet feeder 100 enters the weighing stage. An electrical signal is sent from the controller to the second drive unit 131, which moves the food bowl 12 from the first moving position 40 to the second moving position 50. The weighing device 14 begins weighing. When the actual value detected by the weighing device 14 is within a preset range, an electrical signal is sent from the controller to the second drive unit 131, which then moves the food bowl 12 from the second moving position 50 to the third moving position 60. When the food bowl 12 is at the third moving position 60, the pet feeder 100 enters the feeding cycle. When the value detected by the weighing device 14 is less than the preset range, the weighing device 14 sends an electrical signal from the controller to the third drive unit 33, causing the third drive unit 33 to continue moving the feed and opening the food outlet 24 via the first drive unit 26, allowing the feed to fall into the food bowl 12.

[0066] In this embodiment, when the feed dispensing mechanism 30 dispenses feed, the feed falls through the feed outlet 24 into the feed trough in the feed bowl 12. As the feed bowl 12 moves from the first moving position 40 to the second moving position 50, the weighing device 14 measures the amount of feed dispensed from the feed outlet 24. After monitoring the amount of feed dispensed, the feed bowl 12 moves from the second moving position 50 to the third moving position 60, with the feed trough of the feed bowl 12 exposed relative to the feed cylinder 2. The feed bowl 12 can be used for pet feeding for a certain period of time. After the feeding time has expired, the feed bowl 12 moves from the third moving position 60 to the second moving position 50, and the weighing device 14 weighs the feed in the feed bowl 12 again. The difference between the amount of feed dispensed and the amount of feed consumed is the amount of feed consumed by the pet. Therefore, this pet feeder 100 can monitor both the amount of feed dispensed and the amount of feed consumed.

[0067] To improve the sealing performance of feed hopper 2. For example... Figures 1 to 4 as well as Figure 17As shown, the feed cylinder 2 has an outlet 201 and a sealing strip 4, the sealing strip 4 extending circumferentially along the outlet 201; a gap exists between the feed bowl 12 and the feed cylinder 2, and the sealing strip 4 is located in this gap; at the first moving position 40, at least a portion of the feed bowl 12 is in contact with the sealing strip 4; at the second moving position 50, the feed bowl 12 is separated from the sealing strip 4. By placing the sealing strip 4 in the gap, when the feed bowl 12 moves to the first moving position 40, the sealing strip 4 abuts against the outer wall of the feed bowl 12; when the feed bowl 12 moves to the second moving position 50, the feed bowl 12 is separated from the sealing strip 4. After the feed bowl 12 is separated from the sealing strip 4, the weighing device 14 is used to weigh the feed in the feed bowl 12, avoiding interference from the sealing strip 4 on the feed bowl 12 and improving the accuracy of the weighing device 14 during weighing. The sealing strip 4 improves the airtightness of the feed bowl 12 in the feed cylinder 2, reduces the flow of air inside and outside the feed cylinder 2, reduces the entry of microorganisms from outside the feed cylinder 2 into the feed bowl 12, and increases the feed storage time.

[0068] To prevent the pet from eating from the food bowl 12 while it is being weighed. For example... Figures 1 to 4 as well as Figure 17 As shown, the food bowl 12 has a third movable position 60, in which at least part of the food trough of the food bowl 12 is exposed relative to the feed container 2. In the third movable position 60, the food trough is exposed relative to the feed container 2, and the food bowl 12 is available for the pet to eat. In the second movable position 50, the food bowl 12 only needs to be separated from the sealing strip 4, ensuring that the sealing strip 4 does not interfere with the weighing device 14's weighing of the food in the food bowl 12. Therefore, in the second movable position 50, the food bowl 12 only needs to move a small distance. When the food bowl 12 is separated from the sealing strip 4, the food trough is not exposed outside the feed container 2. In the second movable position 50, the pet is prevented from eating from the food trough, the pet is prevented from interfering with the food bowl 12, and the weighing operation is avoided.

[0069] To allow the feeding trough 12 to move inside and outside the feed container 2. For example... Figure 3 , Figure 4 as well as Figure 6As shown, the pet feeder 100 also has a drive mechanism 13, which includes a support base 16, a second drive member 131, a first transmission assembly 132, and a second transmission assembly 15. The food bowl 12 is located on the support base 16, the second drive member 131 is mounted on the support base 16, the support base 16 is mounted on the weighing device 14, the first transmission assembly 132 is mounted on the output end of the second drive member 131, the first end of the second transmission assembly 15 cooperates with the first transmission assembly 132, and the second end of the second transmission assembly 15 cooperates with the food bowl 12. The second drive component 131 is mounted on the support base 16. The second drive component 131 transmits force through the first transmission assembly 132 and the second transmission assembly 15, and acts on the feeding trough 12 through the second transmission assembly 15, thereby driving the feeding trough 12 to move. Furthermore, the support base 16 is mounted on a weighing device 14, which is configured to measure the weight of the support base 16, the drive mechanism 13, the feeding trough 12, and the feed in the feeding trough 12. In this embodiment, the first transmission assembly 132 can be a chain drive, belt drive, or gear drive.

[0070] To further allow the feeding trough 12 to move inside and outside the feed container 2. For example... Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 As shown, the first transmission assembly 132 includes a first driving wheel 1321 and a first driven wheel 1322. The second transmission assembly 15 includes a first support block 151, a lead screw 152, and a moving block 154. The first driving wheel 1321 is mounted on the second driving member 131. The first end of the first driven wheel 1322 is mounted on the lead screw 152, and the second end of the first driven wheel 1322 meshes with the first driving wheel 1321. The lead screw 152 extends along a first direction. The first support block 151 is sleeved on the lead screw 152 and threadedly engaged with the lead screw 152. The first end of the moving block 154 is mounted on the first support block 151, and the second end of the moving block 154 engages with the food bowl 12. The support base 16 has a guide rail 161, which extends along a first direction. The moving block 154 slides with the guide rail 161.

[0071] The second driving member 131 drives the first driving wheel 1321 to rotate. The first driving wheel 1321 meshes with the first driven wheel 1322, and the first driving wheel 1321 drives the first driven wheel 1322 to rotate. The first driven wheel 1322 is mounted on the lead screw 152 and drives the lead screw 152 to rotate. The lead screw 152 extends along the first direction. The first support block 151 is sleeved on the lead screw 152 and threadedly engaged with the lead screw 152. When the lead screw 152 rotates, it will drive the first support block 151 to move. Since the moving block 154 is mounted on the first support block 151, and the support base 16 has a guide rail 161, the moving block 154 slides with the guide rail 161. When the first support block 151 moves, it will drive the moving block 154 to move, but the moving direction of the moving block 154 is restricted by the guide rail 161. Therefore, the first support block 151 will not rotate with the lead screw 152. Friction is generated between the outer wall of the lead screw 152 and the inner wall of the first support block 151. This friction will drive the first support block 151 to move in the first direction. When the lead screw 152 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise, it will drive the first support block 151 to move back and forth in the first direction.

[0072] To further extend the storage time of feed in storage chamber 202, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 5 As shown, the vacuum assembly 25 includes an air pump 253, a first air pipe 251, and a second air pipe 252. The air pump 253 is installed on the feed cylinder 2. The first end of the first air pipe 251 is located outside the feed cylinder 2, and the second end of the first air pipe 251 is installed inside the feed cylinder 2 and communicates with the grain storage bin 202. The first end of the second air pipe 252 is connected to the air pump 253, and the second end of the second air pipe 252 is installed inside the feed cylinder 2 and communicates with the grain storage bin 202. The first air pipe 251 is installed at both ends, one inside and one outside the feed cylinder 2, and is connected to the grain storage silo 202. An air pump 253 is connected to the grain storage silo 202 via a second air pipe 252. During use, the air pump 253 draws air from the grain storage silo 202 and discharges the air from the feed cylinder 2, creating a vacuum environment and negative pressure within the silo 202. In this vacuum state, the oxygen content inside the grain storage silo 202 is low, making it unsuitable for the survival of some microorganisms and bacteria, thus preventing spoilage and extending the storage time of the feed. When feeding is needed, the first air pipe 251 is opened, allowing air from outside the feed cylinder 2 to enter the grain storage silo 202, equalizing the air pressure inside and outside the feed cylinder 2, relieving the negative pressure environment, and facilitating the discharge of feed from the grain storage silo 202.

[0073] Furthermore, the feed cylinder 2 has a pressure relief component 22, which is installed on the first air pipe 251. The pressure relief component 22 is used to open or close the air inlet 21 of the first air pipe 251. When it is necessary to maintain the vacuum state in the grain storage chamber 202, the air inlet 21 is closed by the pressure relief component 22; when it is necessary to release the vacuum state in the grain storage chamber 202, the air inlet 21 is opened by the pressure relief component 22, and air from outside the feed cylinder 2 enters into the grain storage chamber 202 through the first air pipe 251 to keep the air pressure inside and outside the feed cylinder 2 consistent.

[0074] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the pressure relief component 22 is a sliding block, and the feed cylinder 2 has a guide groove 203 that cooperates with the sliding block. At least a portion of the first air pipe 251 is located in the guide groove 203, and the sliding block is used to abut against the outer wall of the first air pipe 251. By moving the sliding block in the guide groove 203, the sliding block is locked in place by the first air pipe 251, thus closing the air inlet 21 of the first air pipe 251.

[0075] Furthermore, the pressure relief component 22 is a pressure relief valve, which is at least partially located within the passage of the first air pipe 251 and is electrically connected to the air pump 253. The pressure relief valve opens the first air pipe 251 and tests the air pressure inside the grain storage chamber 202. In actual use, the pressure relief valve is needed to monitor the air pressure inside the grain storage chamber 202 to ensure a low air content. By monitoring the air pressure value of the grain storage chamber 202 through the pressure relief valve, the pressure value of the grain storage chamber 202 is kept within a preset range. When the air pressure value of the grain storage chamber 202 is too high, the pressure relief valve drives the air pump 253 to extract air, expelling the air from the grain storage chamber 202 and ensuring that the air pressure in the grain storage chamber 202 is within the normal range. When feeding is required, the pressure relief valve can also be opened to maintain a consistent air pressure inside and outside the feed cylinder 2.

[0076] To open or close the grain outlet 24 using the sealing plate 23. Figure 3 and Figure 5As shown, the pet feeder 100 also includes a first drive component 26 and a rotating shaft 27. The first drive component 26 is mounted on the feed hopper 2, and the rotating shaft 27 is mounted on the output end of the first drive component 26. The sealing plate 23 is sleeved on the rotating shaft 27 and located at the feed outlet 24. The sealing plate 23 and the vacuum assembly 25 form a sealing mechanism 20. Feed is stored in the food storage bin 202 and discharged to the feed outlet 24 through the feed outlet channel. This feed outlet channel is inclined, which can slow down the speed at which the feed in the food storage bin 202 is discharged to the feed outlet 24, avoiding the discharge of too much feed at once and preventing waste. Moreover, the first drive component 26 drives the rotating shaft 27 to rotate, thereby driving the sealing plate 23 to open or close the feed outlet 24, realizing the sealing and opening of the food storage bin 202 at any time, improving the sealing performance of the food storage bin 202, and reducing the airflow inside and outside the pet feeder 100. Compared to manually opening the grain outlet 24, the mechanically driven method is more intelligent and easier to use.

[0077] The first driving component 26 drives the rotating shaft 27 to rotate. The rotation of the rotating shaft 27 will drive the sealing plate 23 to move, thereby opening or closing the grain outlet 24. Then, the vacuum assembly 25 is activated to seal the grain storage silo 202. When the grain storage silo 202 is de-vacuumed, the sealing plate 23 is opened, allowing the grain from the grain outlet 24 to fall into the feeding trough of the feeding basin 12.

[0078] Example 2

[0079] like Figure 4 , Figures 9 to 16 As shown, a pet feeder 100 further includes: a sealing mechanism 20, a food dispensing mechanism 30, and a vacuum assembly 25. The feed hopper 2 includes a first housing 205 and a second housing 206, which are detachably connected and have an opening 204 between them. The first housing 205 has a food storage chamber 207, and the second housing 206 has a food dispensing chamber 208 and a food outlet 24. The food outlet 24, the food dispensing chamber 208, the opening 204, and the food storage chamber 207 are all connected together. The components are connected sequentially; the vacuum assembly 25 is installed outside the feed cylinder 2 and is connected to the grain storage chamber 207 or the grain dispensing chamber 208; the sealing mechanism 20 is installed outside the feed cylinder 2 and is used to open or close the grain dispensing port 24; the grain dispensing mechanism 30 includes a first actuating member 38, a transmission shaft 39 and a second actuating member 301, the first actuating member 38 and the second actuating member 301 are respectively detachably engaged with both ends of the transmission shaft 39, and the first actuating member 38 is located in the grain dispensing chamber 208 and the second actuating member 301 is located in the grain storage chamber 207.

[0080] A vacuum assembly 25 is installed outside the feed cylinder 2 and is connected to the grain storage chamber 207 or the grain dispensing chamber 208. A sealing mechanism 20 is installed outside the feed cylinder 2 and is used to close the grain outlet 24. The vacuum assembly 25 evacuates the grain storage chamber 207 or the grain dispensing chamber 208, creating a vacuum state inside the feed cylinder 2. The first housing 205 and the second housing 206 are detachably coupled, and the first actuating member 38 and the second actuating member 301 are detachably coupled to both ends of the drive shaft 39, respectively. During installation, the first actuating member 38 is first installed on the first end of the drive shaft 39, then the first housing 205 is installed on the second housing 206, and finally the second actuating member 301 is installed on the drive shaft 39. The second end of 9; due to the detachable fit between the first housing 205 and the second housing 206, and the detachable fit between the first actuating member 38 and the second actuating member 301 and the drive shaft 39, the feed cylinder 2 and the feed dispensing mechanism 30 are easy to install and disassemble. In use, the first actuating member 38 is used to actuate the feed in the feed dispensing chamber 208 so that the feed moves toward the feed outlet 24. The second actuating member 301 is used to actuate the feed at the opening 204 so that the feed in the storage chamber 207 moves toward the opening 204. The opening 204 is used to reduce the flow rate of feed from the storage chamber 207 into the feed dispensing chamber 208. The second actuating member 301 is used to adjust the flow rate at the opening 204 and also to prevent the feed from getting blocked at the opening 204.

[0081] In this embodiment, both the first actuating member 38 and the second actuating member 301 are composed of three or four blades. When the blades stop at the opening 204, the blades will block the feed from entering the feed storage chamber 207 into the feed outlet chamber 208, thereby reducing the amount of feed in the feed outlet chamber 208.

[0082] like Figures 14 to 16As shown, the feed cylinder 2 has a partition 2051, which is installed on the first housing 205 and located between the first housing 205 and the second housing 206. The opening 204 is opened on the partition 2051, and one end of the drive shaft 39 passes through the opening 204 so that the second actuating member 301 is disposed near the opening 204, and the second actuating member 301 is used to push the feed at the opening 204. This partition 2051 separates the grain storage chamber 207 and the grain dispensing chamber 208, reducing the flow rate of feed from the grain storage chamber 207 into the grain dispensing chamber 208. One end of the drive shaft 39 passes through the opening 204, so that the second actuating member 301 is positioned near the opening 204. When the third drive member 33 drives the drive shaft 39 to rotate via the third transmission assembly 34, the drive shaft 39 simultaneously drives the first actuating member 38 and the second actuating member 301 to rotate. The first actuating member 38 actuates the feed in the grain dispensing chamber 208, causing the feed to move from the side wall opening of the second housing 206 to the grain dispensing port 24 during movement. The second actuating member 301 actuates the feed at the opening 204, causing the feed in the grain storage chamber 207 to fall into the grain dispensing chamber 208. In this embodiment, the grain storage chamber 202 includes the grain dispensing chamber 208 and the grain storage chamber 207.

[0083] like Figure 4 , Figures 10 to 12 As shown, the grain dispensing mechanism 30 further includes a third driving member 33, a third transmission assembly 34, and a third housing 209. The third housing 209 is installed at the bottom of the second housing 206, forming a mounting cavity between them. The third transmission assembly 34 is installed within the mounting cavity. The first end of the third transmission assembly 34 is detachably engaged with the output end of the third driving member 33. One end of the transmission shaft 39 passes through the second housing 206 and is detachably engaged with the second end of the third transmission assembly 34. The third driving member 33 provides power to drive the transmission shaft 39 to rotate via the third transmission assembly 34, thereby driving the first actuating member 38 and the second actuating member 301. Furthermore, by installing the third transmission assembly 34 within the mounting cavity, it is concealed within the third housing 209, preventing the third transmission assembly 34 from being exposed. Moreover, the third transmission component 34 does not need to be installed in the first housing 205 or the second housing 206, which maximizes the capacity of the grain storage chamber 207 of the first housing 205 and the grain discharge chamber 208 of the second housing 206. The transmission shaft 39 and the third transmission component 34 are detachable, which further improves the convenience of the grain discharge mechanism 30 during installation.

[0084] In this embodiment, as Figures 10 to 12As shown, the third transmission assembly 34 includes a second driving wheel 341, a second driven wheel 342, a first transmission belt 343, a worm gear 36, and a drive wheel 37. The second driving wheel 341 is mounted on the output end of the third driving component 33, and the second driven wheel 342 is mounted on the third housing 209. The two ends of the first transmission belt 343 are respectively rotatably engaged with the second driving wheel 341 and the second driven wheel 342. The first end of the worm gear 36 is mounted on the second driven wheel 342, and the second end of the worm gear 36 meshes with the drive wheel 37. One end of the transmission shaft 39 passes through the second housing 206 and is mounted on the axis of the drive wheel 37. The second driving wheel 341, the second driven wheel 342, and the first transmission belt 343 form a transmission structure for transmitting the power of the third driving component 33. The worm gear 36 drives the driving wheel 37 to rotate, and the rotation of the driving wheel 37 will drive the transmission shaft 39 to rotate, thereby causing the feed to fall from the grain storage chamber 207 into the grain discharge chamber 208, and pushing the feed in the grain discharge chamber 208 to the grain discharge outlet 24.

[0085] In this embodiment, as Figures 10 to 12 As shown, the grain dispensing mechanism 30 also has a fourth transmission assembly 35, which includes a third driven wheel 352 and a second transmission belt 351. The first end of the second transmission belt 351 is sleeved on the outside of the second driven wheel 342, and the second end of the second transmission belt 351 is sleeved on the outside of the third driven wheel 352. The second driven wheel 342 has two mounting slots for mounting the first transmission belt 343 and the second transmission belt 351, respectively. The worm gear 36 is mounted on the shaft of the third driven wheel 352. The speed and torque of the worm gear 36 are adjusted by the third transmission assembly 34 to further increase the force of the first actuating member 38.

[0086] In this embodiment, a gravity sensor is installed on the base 1, and the gravity sensor is electrically connected to the controller. During the feeding cycle, as long as the pet presses or touches the gravity sensor on the base 1, the controller will drive the food dispensing mechanism 30 to dispense food. During non-feeding cycles, the gravity sensor cannot trigger the food dispensing mechanism 30, thus making the pet feeder 100 more intelligent.

[0087] In addition, the feed hopper 2 has a feed inlet at the top, and the pet feeder 100 also has a top cover 3, which is movably disposed on the top of the feed hopper 2 and is used to open or close the feed inlet. Feed enters the feed hopper 2 through the feed inlet, and the top cover 3 closes the feed inlet of the feed hopper 2, allowing the feed hopper 2 to be vacuumed.

[0088] Furthermore, the movable block 154 has a first magnetic suction member 155, and the food bowl 12 has a second magnetic suction member 121 that cooperates with the first magnetic suction member 155. Through the cooperation of the first magnetic suction member 155 and the second magnetic suction member 121, the food bowl 12 and the movable block 154 can be separated under a large force. When the food bowl 12 moves from the third moving position 60 to the first moving position 40, the cat's paws drag the food bowl 12, preventing it from moving and causing it to fall off. This prevents excessive load on the second drive member 131 and avoids damage to it. At this point, the food bowl 12 needs to be manually fed into the feed hopper 2.

[0089] Furthermore, the first magnetic suction member 155 has a columnar protruding structure, while the second magnetic suction member 121 has a groove structure. This arrangement, after magnetic attraction, increases the stability of the engagement between the first magnetic suction member 155 and the second magnetic suction member 121 through the interlocking of the protruding and concave parts, preventing the food bowl 12 from falling off the moving block 154 when the applied force is small.

[0090] Furthermore, the second transmission assembly 15 also has a second support block 153, which is mounted on the support base 16 and sleeved on the second end of the lead screw 152, and rotatably engages with the lead screw 152. The first support block 151 and the second support block 153 support both ends of the lead screw 152, improving the stability of the lead screw 152 on the second transmission assembly 15.

[0091] In addition, the food weighing mechanism 10 has a protective cover 11, which is installed on the outer wall of the food bowl 12 and located at the outlet 201. The protective cover 11 is used to cover the outlet 201. When the food bowl 12 moves to the first moving position 40, the protective cover 11 seals the outlet 201 to prevent cat claws from reaching into the feed hopper 2, thus keeping the pet feeder 100 in a non-feeding period.

[0092] Furthermore, the feed hopper 2 has a base 1, the base 1 has a feeding platform 101, and the feed bowl 12 is in the second movable position 50, above the feeding platform 101. When the feed bowl 12 is in the second movable position 50, above the feeding platform 101, the feeding platform 101 can provide some support if the feed bowl 12 is subjected to pressure and moves downward.

[0093] This embodiment also proposes a feeding method, including the following steps:

[0094] Step 1: Close the vacuum assembly 25 and open the pressure relief valve. Air from outside the feed cylinder 2 enters the grain storage silo 202, and the air pressure inside and outside the feed cylinder 2 becomes the same.

[0095] Step 2: Move the sealing plate 23 and open the grain outlet 24. The feed in the grain storage bin 202 falls from the grain outlet 24 into the feeding trough 12.

[0096] Step 3: Drive the feeding trough 12 to move so that a gap is formed between the feeding trough 12 and the feed cylinder 2;

[0097] Step 4: Weigh the feed in the feeding trough 12 using the weighing device 14;

[0098] Step 5: Drive the feeding trough 12 to move again so that at least part of the feeding trough of the feeding trough 12 is exposed relative to the feed cylinder 2.

[0099] Through the above operation steps, weighing and feeding are achieved. The pet is weighed before eating, and it can be weighed again after eating by the weighing device 14. The weight of the feed before feeding is subtracted from the weight of the feed after feeding to obtain the amount of food consumed by the pet and to monitor the pet's feeding status over a long period of time. In addition, the vacuum component 25 is used to increase the storage time of the feed and prevent the feed from being damaged or spoiled.

[0100] After feeding, the following steps are also included: moving the feeding trough 12 into the feed cylinder 2, with at least part of the feeding trough of the feeding trough 12 being blocked by the feed cylinder 2; moving the sealing plate 23 and closing the feed outlet 24; activating the vacuum assembly 25, creating a negative pressure vacuum state in the grain storage chamber 202 of the feed cylinder 2. After feeding, activating the vacuum assembly 25 creates a vacuum environment in the grain storage chamber 202, further vacuuming the feed and extending its storage time in the grain storage chamber 202.

[0101] In addition, the feeding method includes the following steps: after the weighing device 14 weighs the feed in the food bowl 12, when the actual value obtained by the weighing device 14 is close to the preset value, the drive mechanism 13 drives the food bowl 12 again so that the food bowl 12 moves from the second moving position 50 to the third moving position 60. At the third moving position 60, at least a part of the food trough is exposed relative to the feed cylinder 2, so that the pet can eat.

[0102] During the feeding cycle, when the pet feeder 100 senses the pet approaching, it opens the pressure relief valve to release air from the food storage chamber 202, ensuring that the air pressure inside and outside the food storage chamber 202 is consistent. During the non-feeding cycle, the vacuum assembly 25 empties the air from the food storage chamber 202. At the same time, the pressure relief valve monitors the atmospheric pressure value inside the food storage chamber 202. When the atmospheric pressure value exceeds the preset range, the vacuum assembly 25 is activated to pump air, so that the food storage chamber 202 is always close to a vacuum state, thereby increasing the storage time of the feed.

[0103] When referencing drawings, new features are explained. To avoid redundant references to drawings that would make the description less concise, features already described will not be referenced again on the drawings if the description is clear.

[0104] The purpose of the above embodiments is to reproduce and derive the technical solution of the present invention by way of example, and to fully describe the technical solution, purpose and effect of the present invention. The purpose is to enable the public to have a more thorough and comprehensive understanding of the disclosure of the present invention, and not to limit the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0105] The above embodiments are not an exhaustive list based on the present invention, and there may be many other embodiments not listed. Any substitutions and improvements made without departing from the concept of the present invention are within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A pet feeding system, characterized in that, The pet feeding system comprises: a feed cylinder having a storage bin, a sealing plate and a discharge opening, the discharge opening being in communication with the storage bin, and the sealing plate being movably arranged at the discharge opening; a vacuumizing assembly installed on the feed cylinder, a first end of the vacuumizing assembly being located in the feed cylinder and in communication with the storage bin, and a second end of the vacuumizing assembly being located outside the feed cylinder; a feed conveying and weighing mechanism, the feed conveying and weighing mechanism having a feeding bowl and a weighing device, the feeding bowl being installed on the weighing device, a feeding trough of the feeding bowl being located below the discharge opening, and the weighing device being installed in the feed cylinder; in a first direction, the feeding bowl has a first moving position and a second moving position, in the first moving position, the feeding trough of the feeding bowl is at least partially blocked by the feed cylinder; in the second moving position, the weighing device is used to weigh the feed in the feeding bowl; the feed cylinder has an outlet and a sealing strip, the sealing strip being arranged along the circumference of the outlet; the feeding bowl and the feed cylinder have a gap therebetween, and the sealing strip is located in the gap; in the first moving position, at least a part of the feeding bowl is in contact with the sealing strip; in the second moving position, the feeding bowl is separated from the sealing strip; the feeding bowl has a third moving position, in the third moving position, the feeding trough of the feeding bowl is at least partially exposed relative to the feed cylinder; the pet feeding system further has a driving mechanism, the driving mechanism comprising a support seat, a second driving member, a first transmission assembly and a second transmission assembly, the feeding bowl being located on the support seat, the second driving member being installed on the support seat, the support seat being installed on the weighing device, the first transmission assembly being installed on an output end of the second driving member, a first end of the second transmission assembly being matched with the first transmission assembly, and a second end of the second transmission assembly being matched with the feeding bowl; the first transmission assembly comprises a first driving wheel and a first driven wheel, and the second transmission assembly comprises a first support block, a lead screw and a moving block, the first driving wheel is installed on the second driving member, a first end of the first driven wheel is installed on the lead screw, and a second end of the first driven wheel is engaged with the first driving wheel; the lead screw is arranged in extension in a first direction, the first support block is sleeved on the lead screw and threadedly matched with the lead screw, a first end of the moving block is installed on the first support block, and a second end of the moving block is matched with the feeding bowl; the support seat has a guide rail arranged in extension in the first direction, and the moving block is slidably matched with the guide rail.

2. The pet feeding system of claim 1, wherein the vacuumizing assembly has an air pump, a first air pipe and a second air pipe, the air pump being installed on the feed cylinder, a first end of the first air pipe being located outside the feed cylinder, a second end of the first air pipe being installed in the feed cylinder and in communication with the storage bin, a first end of the second air pipe being in communication with the air pump, and a second end of the second air pipe being installed in the feed cylinder and in communication with the storage bin.

3. The pet feeding system of claim 1, wherein the pet feeding system further comprises a first driving member and a rotating shaft, the first driving member being installed on the feed cylinder, and the rotating shaft being installed on an output end of the first driving member, the sealing plate being sleeved on the rotating shaft and located at the discharge opening.

4. A feeding method for the pet feeding system according to claim 1, characterized by, comprising the steps of: closing the vacuum assembly, opening the pressure relief valve, air outside the feed cylinder enters the storage bin, the air pressure inside and outside the feed cylinder is consistent; moving the sealing plate and opening the discharge port, the feed in the storage bin falls from the discharge port to the feeding bowl; driving the feeding bowl to move so that a gap is formed between the feeding bowl and the feed cylinder; weighing the feed in the feeding bowl using a scale; driving the feeding bowl to move again so that the feeding trough of the feeding bowl is at least partially exposed relative to the outside of the feed cylinder.

5. The method of feeding of claim 4, wherein, comprising the steps of: driving the feeding bowl to move into the feed cylinder, the feeding trough of the feeding bowl is at least partially blocked by the feed cylinder, moving the sealing plate and closing the discharge port; starting the vacuum assembly, the storage bin of the feed cylinder forms a negative pressure vacuum state.

6. The method of feeding of claim 5, wherein, comprising the steps of: after the scale weighs the feed in the feeding bowl, when the actual value obtained by the scale reaches the preset value, the driving mechanism drives the feeding bowl again.

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