Coffee machine

Abstract

The coffee machine comprises a water tank, a liquid level stabilizing module, a brewing module, a pipeline and a first heating pipe, and the water tank is provided with a water tank water outlet; the liquid level stabilizing module comprises a shell and a floater assembly, the shell covers the water outlet of the water tank and is provided with a first outlet and a second outlet, the second outlet is communicated with the atmosphere, and the floater assembly is used for opening or closing the water outlet of the water tank; the pipeline is communicated with the first outlet and the brewing module; the heating piece is arranged on the pipeline. According to the technical scheme, water in the water tank can flow out conveniently, and meanwhile the flow speed stability of water flow in the pipeline is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of coffee machines, and particularly to a coffee machine. Background Art

[0002] With the improvement of people's living standards, people have put forward higher requirements for the quality of coffee. Generally speaking, when brewing coffee with a coffee machine, if the water temperature can be controlled between 92°C and 95°C, the coffee brewed at this time has a better taste.

[0003] Currently used coffee machines generally include a main body, a water tank, and a heating tube provided in the main body. The heating tube is in the shape of a U-tube or a horseshoe tube, resulting in a phenomenon that the flow rate is fast in the previous stage and slow in the later stage during the water boiling process of traditional coffee machines. Without adding a water pump, the water output and water temperature of the coffee machine cannot meet the ECBC standard, and it is easy to cause the coffee brewed to have a poor taste. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main object of the present invention is to provide a coffee machine, aiming to facilitate the outflow of water in the water tank and ensure the flow rate stability of water in the pipeline.

[0005] To achieve the above object, the coffee machine proposed by the present invention includes:

[0006] A water tank, provided with a water tank outlet;

[0007] A liquid level stabilizing module, including a housing and a float assembly. The housing covers the water tank outlet and is provided with a first outlet and a second outlet. The second outlet is connected to the atmosphere, and the float assembly is used to open or close the water tank outlet;

[0008] A brewing module and a pipeline, the pipeline connecting the first outlet and the brewing module; and

[0009] A heating element, provided in the pipeline.

[0010] Optionally, the float assembly includes a float body, which is provided in the housing and can, under the action of buoyancy, have a first state of approaching the water tank outlet to block the water tank outlet and a second state of moving away from the water tank outlet to open the water tank outlet.

[0011] Optionally, a guiding structure is provided in the housing to define the movement trajectory of the float body.

[0012] Optionally, the guiding structure is configured as a plurality of limiting ribs, and each of the limiting ribs is arranged at intervals around the axis of the water tank outlet and encloses a limiting cavity for the float body to float.

[0013] Optionally, in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the water outlet of the water tank, the clearance width d between the outer surface of the float body and the wall of the limiting cavity satisfies: 0.6 mm ≤ d ≤ 1.5 mm.

[0014] Optionally, the maximum buoyancy force value received by the float body is 2 to 5 times the self-weight of the float body;

[0015] And / or, the ratio between the cross-sectional area of the housing and the cross-sectional area of the float body is s, and 1.2 ≤ s ≤ 3.

[0016] Optionally, the float assembly further includes a seal, and the seal is configured as a first seal, and the first seal is connected to the surface of the float body facing the water outlet of the water tank to seal the water outlet of the water tank under the drive of the float body;

[0017] And / or, the float assembly further includes a seal, and the seal is configured as a second seal, and the second seal is connected to the edge of the water outlet of the water tank, and when the float body blocks the water outlet of the water tank, the second seal is relatively pressed against the float body.

[0018] Optionally, the seal is a silicone part.

[0019] Optionally, at least one groove or protrusion is provided on the outer surface of the float body;

[0020] And / or, the cross-sectional shape of the float body is circular, rectangular or triangular.

[0021] Optionally, the coffee machine further includes a water shortage detection device, and the water shortage detection device is provided in the water tank and / or the liquid level stabilization module.

[0022] Optionally, the water shortage detection device includes a detected part and a detector, the detected part is connected to the float assembly, and the detector is connected to the housing for feeding back the position of the detected part in the housing.

[0023] Optionally, the float assembly includes a float body, the float body is provided in the housing, and under the action of buoyancy, it can have a first state of approaching the water outlet of the water tank to block the water outlet of the water tank, and a second state of moving away from the water outlet of the water tank to open the water outlet of the water tank;

[0024] The detected part is configured as a magnet provided on the float body, and the detector is configured as a reed switch or a Hall sensor.

[0025] Optionally, the water tank is provided with an avoidance groove portion for avoiding the pipeline;

[0026] And / or, the liquid level in the liquid level stabilizing module is higher than the upper end of the heating element;

[0027] And / or, the second outlet is located above the first outlet.

[0028] Optionally, the coffee machine further includes a one-way valve disposed in the pipeline, between the liquid level stabilizing module and the heating element, and the conduction direction of the one-way valve is configured to be from the liquid level stabilizing module towards the pipeline.

[0029] Optionally, the pipeline has a pipeline portion where the liquid inside flows upward, and the heating element is at least disposed in the pipeline portion.

[0030] Optionally, the heating element is arranged in an L shape.

[0031] In the technical solution of the present invention, by arranging a liquid level stabilizing module between the water tank and the pipeline, and utilizing the connection between the liquid level stabilizing module, the water tank and the pipeline, the water in the water tank flows through the housing and then into the pipeline. Since a float assembly is provided in the housing, the float assembly can float up and down with the rise and fall of the liquid level in the housing. Among them, when the float assembly floats up with the rise of the liquid level, the float assembly can seal the water outlet of the water tank to close the water outlet of the water tank, prompting the liquid level in the pipeline to be maintained at the same horizontal plane as the liquid level in the housing, effectively prolonging the residence time of water in the pipeline, facilitating the water flowing through the heating element to be fully heated by the heat emitted by the heating element, ensuring that the temperature of the water flowing into the brewing module reaches between 92°C and 95°C, and ensuring that the taste of the brewed coffee is better;

[0032] After the water in the pipeline flows into the brewing module, the float assembly drops with the fall of the liquid level and opens the water outlet of the water tank. Furthermore, the water in the water tank can be replenished into the liquid level stabilizing module, causing the float assembly to rise again and re-seal the water outlet of the water tank. In this way, the liquid level in the pipeline is always maintained at the same horizontal plane as the liquid level in the housing, effectively prolonging the residence time of the water flow in the pipeline. While facilitating the outflow of the water in the water tank, it improves the flow velocity stability of the water flow in the pipeline and ensures the full heating of the water flow. Description of the Drawings

[0033] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the following will briefly introduce the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments or the prior art. Obviously, the following drawings are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those of ordinary skill in the art, without creative efforts, other drawings can also be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings.

[0034] Figure 1 It is a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the coffee machine of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a schematic diagram of the liquid flow direction in the coffee machine in

[0036] Figure 3 is Figure 1 a sectional view of the coffee machine from the first perspective in

[0037] Figure 4 is Figure 3 a partially enlarged view at position A in

[0038] Figure 5 is Figure 1 a sectional view of the coffee machine from the second perspective in

[0039] Figure 6 is Figure 5 a partially enlarged view at position B in

[0040] Figure 7 an exploded view of the water tank module and the liquid level stabilization module;

[0041] Figure 8 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the water shortage detection device.

[0042] Explanation of the reference numerals in the drawings:

[0043] Label Name Label Name 10 Water tank module 31 Powder bin 11 Water tank 32 Shower head 111 Water tank outlet 40 Heating module 112 Avoidance groove part 41 Pipe 20 Liquid level stabilization module 411 First pipe section 21 Housing 412 Second pipe section 211 First outlet 413 Third pipe section 212 Second outlet 42 Heating element 22 Guide structure 421 First heating element 221 Limit rib 422 Second heating element 222 Water passing gap 50 Liquid receiving module 24 Float assembly 60 Heat preservation module 241 Float body 70 Water shortage detection device 242 Groove 71 Detected part 243 First seal 72 Detector 30 Brewing module

[0044] The realization, functional features and advantages of the object of the present invention will be further described in conjunction with the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Specific embodiments

[0045] Next, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, rather than all the embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative efforts shall fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0046] In the present invention, unless otherwise clearly defined and limited, terms such as "connection" and "fixation" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, "fixation" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or integrated; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, and it can be the internal communication of two components or the interaction relationship between two components, unless otherwise clearly defined. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood according to specific situations.

[0047] It should be noted that if there are directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back...) involved in the embodiments of the present invention, then such directional indications are only used to explain the relative positional relationship, movement conditions, etc. between components in a specific posture (as shown in the drawings). If this specific posture changes, then the directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0048] In addition, if there are descriptions such as "first", "second", etc. involved in the embodiments of the present invention, then such descriptions of "first", "second", etc. are only for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the quantity of the indicated technical features. Thus, the features defined with "first", "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. In addition, the meaning of "and / or" appearing throughout the text is that it includes three parallel solutions. Taking "A and / or B" as an example, it includes solution A, or solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. In addition, the technical solutions between various embodiments can be combined with each other, but it must be based on the ability of those of ordinary skill in the art to implement. When the combination of technical solutions results in contradictions or cannot be implemented, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection required by the present invention.

[0049] The present invention provides a coffee machine.

[0050] Referring to Figures 1 to 7 , in the embodiment of the present invention, the coffee machine includes a water tank 11, a liquid level stabilizing module 20, a brewing module 30, a pipeline 41, and a first heating element 421. The water tank 11 is provided with a water tank outlet 111; the liquid level stabilizing module 20 includes a housing 21 and a float assembly 24. The housing 21 covers the water tank outlet 111 and is provided with a first outlet 211 and a second outlet 212. The second outlet 212 is communicated with the atmosphere. The float assembly 24 is used to open or close the water tank outlet 111; the pipeline 41 communicates the first outlet 211 and the brewing module 30; the heating element 42 is arranged in the pipeline 41. In this way, it is convenient for the water in the water tank 11 to flow out, and at the same time, the flow rate stability of the water flow in the pipeline 41 is ensured.

[0051] The coffee machine includes a water tank module 10, a liquid level stabilization module 20, a heating module 40, a brewing module 30, a liquid receiving module 50, and a heat preservation module 60. Among them, the liquid level stabilization module 20 is connected between the water tank module 10 and the heating module 40, that is, the housing 21 communicates with the water tank 11 and the pipeline 41; the brewing module 30 is connected to the heating module 40, that is, the shower head 32 of the brewing module 30 communicates with the pipeline 41, so that the water in the water tank 11 flows through the housing 21, the pipeline 41, and is sprayed out by the shower head 32. During this process, the water flow is heated by the heating element 42 to ensure that hot water flows into the powder bin 31 of the brewing module 30 and is mixed with the coffee powder in the powder bin 31; the brewed coffee then flows into the liquid receiving module 50, such as a coffee cup. Among them, a heat preservation module 60 is provided below the liquid receiving module 50 to maintain the temperature of the coffee in the liquid receiving module 50 and ensure the quality of the coffee.

[0052] In this application, by providing a liquid level stabilization module 20 between the water tank 11 and the pipeline 41, and using the connection between the liquid level stabilization module 20 and the water tank 11, the water in the water tank 11 flows into the housing 21. Since a float assembly 24 is provided in the housing 21, the float assembly 24 can float up and down as the liquid level in the housing 21 rises and falls. Among them, the float assembly 24 floats up as the liquid level rises, and then can seal the water tank outlet 111 and close the water tank outlet 111. At this time, since the housing 21 communicates with the atmosphere through the second outlet 212, the pipeline 41 communicates with the shower head 32 of the brewing module 30, and the shower head 32 communicates with the atmosphere, the liquid level in the pipeline 41 and the liquid level in the housing 21 are maintained at the same horizontal plane. Furthermore, the residence time of water in the pipeline 41 is effectively extended, facilitating the water flow corresponding to the heating element 42 to be fully heated by the heat emitted by the heating element 42 in the pipeline 41, ensuring that the temperature of the water flowing into the powder bin 31 reaches between 92°C and 95°C, and ensuring that the brewed coffee has a better taste; after heating for a certain period of time, the water in the pipeline 41 is heated to generate steam pressure. Then, the water flow in the pipeline 41 flows into the powder bin 31 of the brewing module 30 under the action of the steam pressure. The liquid level in the pipeline 41 decreases, and the liquid level in the housing 21 decreases accordingly, causing the float assembly 24 to fall as the liquid level drops, and then opening the water tank outlet 111. Furthermore, the water in the water tank 11 can be replenished into the liquid level stabilization module 20, prompting the float assembly 24 to rise again and re-seal the water tank outlet 111. In this way, the liquid level in the pipeline 41 and the liquid level in the housing 21 are always maintained at the same horizontal plane, effectively extending the residence time of the water flow in the pipeline 41. While facilitating the outflow of the water in the water tank 11, the flow velocity stability of the water flow in the pipeline 41 is improved, and the full heating of the water flow is ensured.

[0053] The heating element 42 is disposed in the pipeline 41. It can be understood that the heating element 42 can be wrapped around the outer peripheral surface of the pipeline 41 or disposed on the inner wall surface of the pipeline 41, both of which can fully heat the liquid corresponding to the heating element 42 in the pipeline 41 to achieve the heating purpose.

[0054] In addition, the liquid level height in the housing 21 can be adjusted by designing the buoyancy of the float assembly 24, so as to adjust the liquid level position of the liquid level stabilizing module 20, and further adjust the liquid level height of the water in the pipeline 41 and the installation height of the heating element 42 on the pipeline 41, so as to ensure that the water flow in the pipeline 41 can be effectively heated and avoid dry burning. Before being subjected to steam pressure, there needs to be a certain distance between the water flow in the pipeline 41 and the shower head 32 of the brewing module 30 to avoid the water flow temperature flowing out of the shower head 32 being too high due to too short a distance, thereby affecting the quality of the brewed coffee.

[0055] In the technical solution of the present invention, by providing a liquid level stabilizing module 20 between the water tank 11 and the pipeline 41, and using the connection between the liquid level stabilizing module 20 and the water tank 11 and the pipeline 41, the water flow in the water tank 11 flows through the housing 21 and then flows into the pipeline 41. Since the float assembly 24 is provided in the housing 21, the float assembly 24 can float up and down as the liquid level in the housing 21 rises and falls. Among them, when the float assembly 24 floats up as the liquid level rises, the float assembly 24 can seal the water tank outlet 111 to close the water tank outlet 111, prompting the liquid level in the pipeline 41 to be maintained at the same horizontal plane as the liquid level in the housing 21, effectively extending the residence time of the water in the pipeline 41, facilitating the water flow corresponding to the heating element 42 to be fully heated by the heat emitted by the heating element 42 in the pipeline 41, ensuring that the temperature of the water flowing into the powder bin 31 reaches between 92°C and 95°C, and ensuring that the taste of the brewed coffee is better;

[0056] When the water in the pipeline 41 flows into the brewing module 30, the float assembly 24 falls as the liquid level drops, and the water tank outlet 111 is opened. Furthermore, the water in the water tank 11 can be replenished into the liquid level stabilizing module 20, causing the float assembly 24 to rise again and re-seal the water tank outlet 111. In this way, the liquid level in the pipeline 41 is always maintained at the same horizontal plane as the liquid level in the housing 21, effectively extending the residence time of the water flow in the pipeline 41. While facilitating the outflow of the water in the water tank 11, it improves the flow velocity stability of the water flow in the pipeline 41 and ensures the full heating of the water flow.

[0057] Refer to Figures 6 to 8, in one embodiment, the float assembly 24 includes a float body 241 disposed in the housing 21 and capable of, under the action of buoyancy, having a first state of approaching the water outlet 111 of the water tank to block the water outlet 111 of the water tank and a second state of moving away from the water outlet 111 of the water tank to open the water outlet 111 of the water tank. It can be understood that when the water in the water tank 11 flows into the housing 21 through the water outlet 111 of the water tank and the liquid level in the housing 21 gradually rises, the float body 241 rises with the rise of the liquid level. When the liquid level rises to a certain height, the float body 241 is aligned with the water outlet 111 of the water tank and blocks the water outlet 111 to be in the first state. At this time, the liquid level in the housing 21 is in a stable state. At the same time, the liquid level in the pipeline 41 is at the same horizontal level as the liquid level in the housing 21. When the water flow in the pipeline 41 is heated, the generated steam pressure causes at least part of the water flow in the pipeline 41 to flow into the powder bin 31 in the brewing module 30. Due to the change in pressure in the pipeline 41 and the reduction in the amount of water, the water in the liquid level stabilizing module 20 flows into the pipeline 41, and the liquid level in the housing 21 decreases. The float body 241 will fall with the decrease of the liquid level. When it falls to disengage from the water outlet 111 of the water tank, the float body 241 no longer blocks the water outlet 111 and is in the second state. At this time, the water in the water tank 11 flows into the housing 21 and will cause the liquid level to rise, driving the float body 241 to re-seal the water outlet 111 of the water tank. Thus, the first state and the second state are repeatedly switched, reliably ensuring that the liquid level in the pipeline 41 is always at a constant height, and further ensuring the residence time of the water flow in the pipeline 41.

[0058] The buoyancy of the float body 241 can be designed according to the selection of the liquid level position in the housing 21, thereby changing the liquid level height of the water flow in the pipeline 41 and determining the installation height of the heating element 42 in the pipeline 41.

[0059] Further, in one embodiment, a guiding structure 22 is provided in the housing 21 to define the movement trajectory of the float body 241. Among them, the guiding structure 22 is connected to the wall surface of the housing 21 and is disposed near the water outlet 111 of the water tank. Furthermore, by means of the arrangement of the guiding structure 22, the floating range of the float body 241 in the housing 21 is effectively defined. And under the action of buoyancy, the float body 241 can quickly align with the water outlet 111 under the guiding action of the guiding structure 22, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of blocking the water outlet 111 of the water tank.

[0060] Specifically, in combination with Figure 4 、 Figures 6 to 8In one embodiment, the guide structure 22 is configured as a plurality of limiting ribs 221, each of which is arranged at intervals around the axis of the water tank outlet 111, and encloses a limiting cavity for the float body 241 to float. On the one hand, the limiting cavity enclosed by the plurality of limiting ribs 221 can effectively limit the floating range of the float body 241, and prevent the float body 241 from moving with any position in the shell 21, resulting in the float body 241 being unable to efficiently align with the water tank outlet 111; on the other hand, each limiting rib 221 is arranged at intervals to form a water gap 222, which facilitates the water flowing out of the water tank outlet 111 to flow into the shell 21, so as to increase the liquid level in the shell 21. However, in other embodiments, the guide structure 22 can be configured as a limiting cylinder, and the limiting cylinder is provided with a plurality of water through holes, which can also play a limiting guiding role and facilitate the change of the liquid level in the shell 21.

[0061] One end of the limiting rib 221 is connected to the edge of the water tank outlet 111 , and the other end can be connected to the shell 21 or can be a free end. It only needs to ensure that the float body 241 cannot escape from the limiting cavity surrounded by the limiting ribs 221 .

[0062] Specifically, in one embodiment, in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the water tank outlet 111, the clearance width d between the outer surface of the float body 241 and the cavity wall of the limiting cavity satisfies: 0.6 mm ≤ d ≤ 1.5 mm, so as to improve the smoothness of the float body 241 switching from the first state to the second state and from the second state to the first state. Specifically, when the clearance width is less than 0.6 mm, although the liquid level rises and the pressure on the float body 241 increases, due to the too small clearance width, it is more difficult for the float body 241 to approach the water tank outlet 111, and situations such as hitting the limiting rib 221 are likely to occur. Although the liquid level drops and the pressure on the float body 241 decreases, due to the too small clearance width, it is also more difficult for the float body 241 to move away from the water tank outlet 111, and situations such as being unable to separate from the water tank outlet 111 due to a large surface tension are likely to occur; when the clearance width is greater than 1.5 mm, although the liquid level rises and the pressure on the float body 241 increases, due to the too large clearance width, the floating swing of the float body 241 is relatively large, and it is impossible to quickly align with the water tank outlet 111, which is likely to reduce the efficiency of switching from the second state to the first state. Although the liquid level drops and the pressure on the float body 241 decreases, due to the too large clearance width, it is also more difficult for the float body 241 to move away from the water tank outlet 111, and situations such as being unable to separate from the water tank outlet 111 due to a large surface tension are likely to occur. Therefore, limiting the clearance width between the outer surface of the float body 241 and the cavity wall of the limiting cavity to be between 0.6 mm and 1.5 mm can reduce the possibility of the float body 241 hitting the limiting rib 221. At the same time, it can prevent the large surface tension from acting on the float body 241, improve the smoothness of the float body 241 switching from the first state to the second state and from the second state to the first state, and improve the switching efficiency.

[0063] Among them, the specific values of the clearance width between the outer surface of the float body 241 and the cavity wall of the limiting cavity can be 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.4 mm, 1.5 mm, etc.

[0064] Optionally, in one embodiment, the maximum buoyancy force received by the float body 241 is 2 to 5 times the self-weight of the float body 241; wherein, the maximum buoyancy force refers to the buoyancy force generated when the float body 241 is completely immersed. When the buoyancy force received by the float body 241 is too small, due to the relatively large weight of the float body 241, the immersed volume of the float body 241 is relatively large. Further, when the water shortage detection device 70 in the coffee machine connects the detected part 71 with the float body 241, it is easy to mis-trigger the water shortage detection device 70 to work, affecting the detection accuracy of the water shortage detection device 70; when the buoyancy force received by the float body 241 is too large, the immersed volume of the float body 241 is relatively small, and due to the excessive buoyancy force, after a small amount of water is added to the housing 21, the float body 241 blocks the water tank outlet 111, and then the liquid level in the housing 21 is always at a relatively low level, which easily affects the drainage capacity of the liquid level stabilization module 20 and the number of times the float body 241 opens and closes the water tank outlet 111, and the change of the water level in the housing 21 is not obvious. Therefore, by defining the maximum buoyancy force received by the float body 241 to be 2 to 5 times the self-weight of the float body 241, the detection reliability of the water shortage detection device 70 for the water shortage situation of the coffee machine in the later stage can be ensured, and the drainage capacity and water outlet stability of the liquid level stabilization module 20 can be ensured.

[0065] Among them, the ratio between the maximum buoyancy force received by the float body 241 and the self-weight of the float body 241 can be 2, 2.1, 2.3, 2.5, 2.7, 2.9, 3, 3.2, 3.4, 3.6, 3.8, 4, 4.1, 4.3, 4.5, 4.7, 5, etc., and preferably 2.7 times.

[0066] Optionally, in one embodiment, the ratio between the cross-sectional area of the housing 21 and the cross-sectional area of the float body 241 is s, and 1.2 ≤ s ≤ 3, ensuring that there is a relatively large water storage space in the housing 21. At the same time, during the switching process between the first state and the second state, it is ensured that the float body 241 can float and sink smoothly in the housing 21, improving the water outlet reliability of the liquid level stabilization module 20, and also contributing to the assembly of the detected part 71 on the float body 241 and the cooperation with the detector 72, thereby improving the detection accuracy of the water shortage detection device 70.

[0067] Among them, the specific ratio between the cross-sectional area of the housing 21 and the cross-sectional area of the float body 241 can be 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 2.9, 3, etc., and preferably 1.3.

[0068] In order to improve the sealing performance of the float body 241 for blocking the water tank outlet 111, refer to Figures 6 to 8, in one embodiment, the float assembly 24 further includes a seal 243 configured as a first seal 243. The first seal 243 is connected to the surface of the float body 241 facing the water outlet 111 of the water tank to seal the water outlet 111 driven by the float body 241. It can be understood that as the liquid level in the housing 21 rises, the float body 241 floats upward and, under the guiding action of the guiding structure 22, drives the first seal 243 to move towards the water outlet 111 of the water tank. When floating to a certain height position, the first seal 243 covers the water outlet 111 or extends into the water outlet 111 to seal the water outlet 111.

[0069] A slot for the seal 243 to be clamped is provided on the surface of the float body 241 facing the water outlet 111 of the water tank. By installing the seal 243 into the slot and through methods such as interference fit, gluing, fasteners, etc., a reliable connection between the seal 243 and the float body 241 is achieved.

[0070] In another embodiment, the float assembly 24 further includes a seal 243 configured as a second seal. The second seal is connected to the edge of the water outlet 111 of the water tank. When the float body 241 blocks the water outlet 111 of the water tank, the second seal is relatively pressed against the float body 241. It can be understood that as the liquid level in the housing 21 rises, the float body 241 floats upward towards the water outlet 111 of the water tank under the guiding action of the guiding structure 22 and abuts against the edge of the water outlet 111. Since the water in the water tank 11 exerts pressure on the second seal connected to the edge of the water outlet 111, the second seal deforms and is relatively pressed against the float body 241 to achieve sealing of the water outlet 111. The second seal is a sealing ring.

[0071] In yet another embodiment, the float assembly 24 includes a first seal 243 provided on the float body 241 and a second seal provided on the edge of the water outlet 111 of the water tank. As the liquid level in the housing 21 rises, the float body 241 floats upward, causing the first seal 243 to extend into the second seal or the first seal 243 and the second seal to be relatively pressed against each other, thereby achieving reliable sealing of the water outlet 111 of the water tank.

[0072] Optionally, in one embodiment, the seal 243 is a silicone part, that is, it is made of food-grade silicone material, which is soft and has good elasticity, facilitating the sealing of the water outlet 111 of the water tank.

[0073] Refer to Figures 6 to 8, in one embodiment, at least one groove 242 or protrusion is provided on the outer surface of the float body 241, thereby changing the outer surface of the float body 241. When the float body 241 is engaged with the guiding structure 22, it is beneficial to increase the gap between the float body 241 and the wall of the limiting cavity to reduce the influence of tension. Among them, the groove 242 can be arranged along the height extension direction of the float body 241, that is, the axis extension direction of the water tank outlet 111. At the same time, multiple grooves 242 are provided and evenly and spaced around the center line of the float body 241 to evenly distribute the pressure of water on the outer surface of the float body 241, thereby reducing the floating swing of the float body 241 and the floating stability of the float body 241 at the same time. Similarly, at least one protrusion is provided on the outer surface of the float body 241, and the protrusions are evenly and spaced around the center line of the float body 241, thereby changing the outer surface of the float body 241, balancing the force on the float body 241, reducing the floating swing of the float body 241, and the floating stability of the float body 241 at the same time.

[0074] In addition, when the float body 241 moves on the axis of the first outlet 211, since the groove 241 is provided on the surface of the float body 241 facing the first outlet 211, the gap between the float body 241 and the edge of the first outlet 211 is increased, effectively reducing the influence of tension. In this way, when water is added to the housing 21 and the liquid level rises, the float body 241 can be separated from the connection with the housing 21 with a smaller force and then float up with the rise of the liquid level.

[0075] Optionally, in one embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the float body 241 is circular, rectangular or triangular, that is, the float body 241 can be a sphere, a cylinder, a cone, etc. However, the present application is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the float body 241 is an irregular shape.

[0076] Optionally, in one embodiment, the coffee machine further includes a water shortage detection device 70, and the water shortage detection device 70 is provided in the water tank 11 and / or the liquid level stabilizing module 20 to send corresponding signals and warnings when the water tank 11 or the housing 21 is in a water shortage state, or when both the water tank 11 and the housing 21 are in a water shortage state, and cut off the power supply to the heating element 42 to prevent dry burning.

[0077] Specifically, the water shortage detection device can monitor the water level by means of a reed switch, capacitance detection, infrared detection, etc.

[0078] Furthermore, the water shortage detection device 70 is provided in the liquid level stabilizing module 20 to reduce the influence on the appearance of the water tank 11 and the risk of cost increase, and reasonably utilize the area near the water tank outlet 111, or reasonably utilize the specific structure of the liquid level stabilizing module 20; such asFigure 8 As shown, in one embodiment, the water shortage detection device 70 includes a detected member 71 and a detector 72. The detected member 71 is connected to the float assembly 24, and the detector 72 is connected to the housing 21 for feeding back the position of the detected member 71 in the housing 21. Specifically, the coffee machine further includes a controller. The heating element 42 and the detector 72 are both connected to the controller. When the detector 72 detects the detected member 71, the controller receives the water shortage signal sent by the detector 72 and cuts off the power supply to the heating element 42, thereby reducing the risk of the heating element 42 heating the air in the pipeline 41.

[0079] By connecting the detected member 71 to the float assembly 24, that is, the detected member 71 and the float assembly 24 are an integral part. On the one hand, it is convenient for the detected member 71 to float with the float assembly 24, thereby facilitating the detector 72 to monitor the position of the liquid level. On the other hand, it can reduce the interference of the detected member 71 on the floating of the float assembly 24, thereby improving the detection effect of the detector and the control effect of the controller.

[0080] Referring to Figure 8 , in one embodiment, the float assembly 24 includes a float body 241. The float body 241 is disposed in the housing 21 and can, under the action of buoyancy, have a first state of approaching the water tank outlet 111 to block the water tank outlet 111 and a second state of moving away from the water tank outlet 111 to open the water tank outlet 111. The detected member 71 is configured as a magnet disposed on the float assembly 24, and the detector 72 is configured as a reed switch or a Hall sensor. It can be understood that, as Figure 8 shown, taking the detector 72 as a reed switch as an example, the magnet is connected to the float body 241, and the reed switch is connected to the outer surface of the housing 21 and is disposed away from the water tank outlet 11. With such a setting, on the one hand, the float body 241 rises with the liquid level and, under the guiding action of the guiding structure 22, seals the water tank outlet 111 through the connected sealing member 243 to be in the first state, realizing the sealing function of the float assembly 24 on the water tank outlet 111. On the other hand, due to the decrease of the liquid level and the guiding action of the guiding structure 22, the float body 241 moves away from the water tank outlet 111, and when the water shortage state occurs and the float body 241 gradually approaches the reed switch, the connected magnet can cause the reed switch to be magnetically attracted, and then the reed switch can output a corresponding water shortage signal to the controller, realizing the detection of the liquid level height in the housing 21 by the float assembly 24.

[0081] Moreover, since the magnet is fixed to the float body 241 as an integral structure, where the magnet can be embedded in the float body 241, it can reliably reduce the occupation of the space inside the housing 21 and the interference with the floating of the float body 241 caused by the separate arrangement of the detection member 71 and the float body 241. However, in other embodiments, the water shortage detection device 70 can be an optoelectronic sensor.

[0082] Optionally, in one embodiment, the water tank 11 is provided with an avoidance groove portion 112 for avoiding the pipeline 41, and a part of the pipeline 41 is embedded in the avoidance groove portion 112, which helps to make the structures of the water tank module 10 and the heating module 40 more compact. At the same time, it improves the appearance regularity and ornamental value of the water tank module 10 and the heating module 40.

[0083] Optionally, in one embodiment, the liquid level in the liquid level stabilizing module 20 is higher than the upper end of the heating element 42421. It can be understood that when the float assembly 24 closes the water outlet 111 of the water tank, the liquid level in the pipeline 41 and the liquid level in the housing 21 are maintained at the same horizontal plane. Among them, the heating element 42 is arranged on the pipeline 41, and the liquid level in the housing 21 is higher than the upper end of the heating element 42, ensuring that there is water flow in the pipeline part provided with the heating element 42, effectively reducing the risk of dry burning and improving the use safety of the coffee machine.

[0084] Optionally, in one embodiment, the second outlet 212 is located above the first outlet 211, ensuring the connection between the second outlet 212 and the atmosphere, and at the same time, preventing the water in the liquid level stabilizing device 20 from flowing out through the second outlet 212.

[0085] Optionally, in one embodiment, the coffee machine further includes a one-way valve (not shown), the one-way valve is arranged in the pipeline 41 and is located between the liquid level stabilizing module 20 and the heating element 42, and the conduction direction of the one-way valve is configured to be from the liquid level stabilizing module 20 towards the pipeline 41, so that the water in the liquid level stabilizing module 20 flows into the pipeline 41 and is heated by the heating element 42, and it can also prevent the water in the pipeline 41 from flowing back to the liquid level stabilizing module 20 under the action of steam pressure.

[0086] Refer to Figure 2, in one embodiment, the pipeline 41 has a pipeline section with internal liquid flowing upward, and the heating element 42 is at least disposed on the pipeline section. It can be understood that the pipeline 41 includes a first pipe section 411 and a second pipe section 412 that both extend vertically and are connected. The first pipe section 411 is communicated with the first outlet 211, and the second pipe section 412 is communicated with the brewing module 30. Among them, the liquid in the second pipe section 412 flows upward and flows to the brewing module 30. The first pipe section 411 and the second pipe section 412 can be directly connected or can be connected through other pipe sections, which is not limited herein. And the heating element 42 includes a first heating element 421 disposed on the second pipe section 412. Thus, after heating for a certain period of time, the water in the second pipe section 412 is heated to generate steam pressure, and the steam pressure mainly acts on the water flow in the second pipe section 412, causing the water flow to flow into the powder bin 31 of the brewing module 30, effectively preventing the water in the pipeline 41 from flowing back due to the steam pressure, and preventing the steam pressure from acting on the first outlet 211, or acting on the outlet of the one-way valve, affecting the stable outflow of the water in the liquid level stabilizing module 20 or the water tank 11. That is, when the liquid level in the liquid level stabilizing module 20 is low and the pressure is small, blocking the one-way valve or the first outlet 211 in the reverse direction will cause the water in the liquid level stabilizing module 20 to not flow into the pipeline 41, and the water in the water tank 11 to not flow into the liquid level stabilizing module 20. It facilitates the outflow of the water in the water tank 11, reduces the possibility of dry burning, improves the use safety. At the same time, it ensures the flow velocity stability of the water flow in the pipeline 41 and extends the heating duration of the water flow in the pipeline 41.

[0087] Further, in one embodiment, the pipe 41 further includes a third pipe section 413, and the third pipe section 413 is connected to the first pipe section 411 and the second pipe section 412; the heating element 42 further includes a second heating element 422, and the second heating element 422 is disposed on the third pipe section 413 and is arranged away from the first pipe section 411. Among them, the third pipe section 413 can extend linearly or meander, so that the second heating element 422 extends along the specific shape of the third pipe section 413. With such a setting, it is possible to increase the length of the pipe 41 that can generate heat, that is, the heating lengths of the first heating element 421 and the second heating element 422, increase the area of water heated in the pipe 41, and the amount of hot water formed. At the same time, the second heating element 422 is arranged away from the first pipe section 411, effectively avoiding a large amount of steam pressure flowing through the third pipe section 413 to the first pipe section 411, and reducing the influence on the stable outflow of the water flow in the liquid level stabilization module 20. However, the present application is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, the pipe 41 only includes the first pipe section 411 and the second pipe section 412, and the first pipe section 411 and the second pipe section 412 are connected and approximately form a V-shaped structure. In another embodiment, the pipe 41 includes the first pipe section 411, the second pipe section 412 and the third pipe section 413, and the first heating element 421 is provided on the second pipe section 412.

[0088] Specifically, in one embodiment, the heating element 42 is arranged in an L shape. Among them, the first heating element 421 and the second heating element 422 are integrally arranged, reducing the assembly process, and avoiding the generation of a gap between the first heating element 421 and the second heating element 422, resulting in the water flow in the pipe 41 corresponding to the gap not being effectively heated, and reducing the influence of the water flow on the temperature of the water flow heated by the first heating element 421 and the second heating element 422.

[0089] The above are only the optional embodiments of the present invention, and do not limit the patent scope of the present invention accordingly. Any equivalent structural transformation made under the inventive concept of the present invention by using the content of the specification and drawings of the present invention, or directly / indirectly applied in other related technical fields, is included in the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A coffee machine, It is characterized in that include: A water tank having a water tank outlet; A liquid level stabilization module, comprising a housing and a float assembly, wherein the housing cover is disposed at the water outlet of the water tank and is provided with a first outlet and a second outlet, wherein the second outlet is connected to the atmosphere, and the float assembly is used to open or close the water outlet of the water tank; a brewing module and a pipeline, wherein the pipeline communicates the first outlet and the brewing module; as well as A heating element is arranged on the pipeline.

2. The coffee machine according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The float assembly includes a float body, which is arranged in the shell and can, under the action of buoyancy, have a first state of being close to the water outlet of the water tank to block the water outlet of the water tank, and a second state of being away from the water outlet of the water tank to open the water outlet of the water tank.

3. The coffee machine according to claim 2, It is characterized in that A guide structure is arranged in the shell to limit the movement track of the float body.

4. The coffee machine according to claim 3, It is characterized in that The guide structure is configured as a plurality of limiting ribs, each of which is arranged at intervals around the axis of the water outlet of the water tank and encloses a limiting cavity for the float body to float.

5. The coffee machine according to claim 4, It is characterized in that In the axial direction perpendicular to the water outlet of the water tank, the gap width d between the outer surface of the float body and the cavity wall of the limiting cavity satisfies: 0.6mm≤d≤1.5mm.

6. The coffee machine according to claim 2, It is characterized in that The maximum buoyancy value of the float body is 2 to 5 times the deadweight of the float body; And / or, a ratio of a cross-sectional area of ​​the shell to a cross-sectional area of ​​the float body is s, and 1.2≤s≤3.

7. The coffee machine according to claim 2, It is characterized in that The float assembly further includes a seal, which is configured as a first seal, and the first seal is connected to a surface of the float body facing the water outlet of the water tank, so as to seal the water outlet of the water tank under the drive of the float body; And / or, the float assembly further comprises a seal, the seal is configured as a second seal, the second seal is connected to the edge of the water tank outlet, when the float body blocks the water tank outlet, the second seal is pressed against the float body.

8. The coffee machine according to claim 7, It is characterized in that The sealing element is a silicone element.

9. The coffee machine according to claim 4, It is characterized in that The outer surface of the float body is provided with at least one groove or protrusion; And / or, the cross-sectional shape of the float body is circular, rectangular or triangular.

10. The coffee machine according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The coffee machine further comprises a water shortage detection device, and the water shortage detection device is arranged on the water tank and / or the liquid level stabilization module.

11. The coffee machine according to claim 10, It is characterized in that The water shortage detection device comprises a detected member and a detector. The detected member is connected to the float assembly, and the detector is connected to the shell for feeding back the position of the detected member in the shell.

12. The coffee machine according to claim 11, It is characterized in that The float assembly includes a float body, which is disposed in the housing and can, under the action of buoyancy, have a first state of being close to the water outlet of the water tank to block the water outlet of the water tank, and a second state of being away from the water outlet of the water tank to open the water outlet of the water tank; The detected member is configured as a magnet arranged on the float body, and the detector is configured as a reed switch or a Hall sensor.

13. The coffee machine according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The water tank is provided with an avoidance groove for avoiding the pipeline; And / or, the liquid level in the liquid level stabilization module is higher than the upper end of the heating element; And / or, the second outlet is located above the first outlet.

14. The coffee machine according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The coffee machine further comprises a one-way valve, which is arranged on the pipeline and located between the liquid level stabilizing module and the heating element, and the conducting direction of the one-way valve is configured to be from the liquid level stabilizing module toward the pipeline.

15. The coffee machine according to claim 1, It is characterized in that The pipeline has a pipeline portion where the internal liquid flows upward, and the heating element is at least arranged on the pipeline portion.

16. The coffee machine according to claim 15, It is characterized in that The heating element is arranged in an L shape.

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