Water delivery connector, humidifying equipment and water level detection method of humidifying equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of atomization humidifiers, in particular to a water conveying connector, humidification equipment and a water level detection method thereof.The water conveying connector is provided with a connector body, the connector body comprises a water conveying channel and a water conveying opening communicating with the water conveying channel, and the water conveying channel extends in the direction of the side wall of a water storage tank; the water flow flows out of the water delivery port and then firstly impacts the side wall of the water storage tank instead of directly impacting the water surface or the bottom of the water storage tank, the side wall is used for buffering and guiding the water flow, the water flow gently slides to the bottom along the side wall, splashing and turbulent flow generated by free falling or high-speed impact of the water flow can be weakened, and therefore impact noise in the water supplementing process is reduced; the problems that a water conveying connector in an existing humidifying device often directly sprays water to the water surface or the bottom of a water storage tank during water supplementing, large noise is generated in the water flow impact process, and the use experience of a user is seriously affected are effectively solved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of atomizing humidifiers, in particular to a water inlet connector, a humidifying device and a water level detection method thereof. BACKGROUND

[0002] The humidifying device is a household or commercial electric appliance for adjusting indoor air humidity, which can atomize and release water into the air, effectively improving the environmental humidity and alleviating the discomfort caused by dryness. The humidifying device is widely used in winter heating, air-conditioned rooms or dry areas, which helps to alleviate the problems of dry skin, sore throat and static electricity, and provides a more suitable humidity environment for home plants and wooden furniture, thereby improving the living comfort and health level.

[0003] The existing humidifying device is usually provided with a water storage tank and a water inlet connector for supplementing water to the water storage tank, so as to convert the water in the water storage tank into mist through an atomizing mechanism and release it into the air, thereby improving the environmental humidity. However, in actual application, the water inlet connector often sprays water directly to the water surface or the bottom of the water storage tank during water supplement, which generates a large noise during water flow impact, seriously affecting the user experience.

[0004] The present application is proposed to solve the problems of the prior art. SUMMARY

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned problem that the water inlet connector of the existing humidifying device often sprays water directly to the water surface or the bottom of the water storage tank during water supplement, which generates a large noise during water flow impact, seriously affecting the user experience, the technical solution adopted by the present application to solve the technical problem is: A water inlet connector for delivering water to a water storage tank, comprising a connector body provided on the side wall of the water storage tank, the connector body being integrally formed and comprising a water inlet channel and a water inlet port communicating with the water inlet channel, the water inlet channel being arranged to extend towards the side wall of the water storage tank, so that the water flow from the water inlet port impacts the side wall of the water storage tank and then flows along the side wall to the bottom of the water storage tank, thereby reducing the noise of the water flow.

[0006] Further, the water inlet channel comprises a first water inlet channel arranged in a first direction and a second water inlet channel arranged in a second direction, the second water inlet channel respectively communicates with the first water inlet channel and the water inlet port, and the second water inlet channel is arranged to extend towards the side wall of the water storage tank.

[0007] Further, the second water inlet channel is located below the first water inlet channel.

[0008] Furthermore, the second water conveying channel includes a first guide wall located near the side wall of the water storage tank, a second guide wall located away from the side wall of the water storage tank, and a water outlet end face connecting the first guide wall and the second guide wall.

[0009] Furthermore, the first guide wall is curved, and the second guide wall is arc-shaped.

[0010] Furthermore, a curved transition section is provided at the connection between the first water conveying channel and the second water conveying channel.

[0011] The present invention also provides a humidification device, including a device body, a water storage tank disposed within the device body, and a water supply connector as described above disposed on the side wall of the water storage tank, wherein the water storage tank has a circular cross-section.

[0012] Furthermore, the main body of the device includes a circuit board and a water level detection mechanism electrically connected to the circuit board. The water level detection mechanism includes a mounting panel disposed on the outer wall of the water storage tank, a liquid level sensor disposed between the mounting panel and the outer wall of the water storage tank, and conductive cotton disposed on the side of the liquid level sensor near the outer wall of the water storage tank.

[0013] Furthermore, the main body of the device includes a device housing and a device cover covering the device housing. The device housing and the device cover together form a mist guiding channel. The mist guiding channel extends along the circumferential direction of the device housing. The device housing is provided with a spray head that penetrates the device cover. One side of the mist guiding channel communicates with the water storage tank, and the other side of the mist guiding channel communicates with the spray head.

[0014] This invention also provides a water level detection method for a humidifier, wherein the circuit board is equipped with a control circuit, and the liquid level sensor is electrically coupled to the outer wall of the water tank through conductive cotton and electrically connected to the control circuit, comprising the following steps: S1: Fix the liquid level sensor and conductive cotton to the target water level detection position on the outer wall of the water tank; S2: The control circuit applies a detection signal to the liquid level sensor and obtains the capacitance value corresponding to the water level state through the conductive cotton. S3: Compare the capacitance sensing value with a preset threshold set based on the target water level detection location; S4: When the capacitance sensing value is greater than or equal to the preset threshold, it is determined that the water level in the water tank has reached or exceeded the target water level detection position. S5: Output water level status signal based on the judgment result to control the water supply and atomization operation of the humidification equipment.

[0015] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: This invention features a connector body comprising a water delivery channel and a water inlet connected to the water delivery channel. The water delivery channel extends towards the side wall of the water storage tank, ensuring that the water flow first impacts the side wall of the tank after exiting the water inlet, rather than directly striking the water surface or bottom. The side wall buffers and guides the water flow, allowing it to slide smoothly down the side wall to the bottom. This helps reduce splashing and turbulence caused by free fall or high-speed impact, thereby reducing impact noise during water replenishment. This effectively solves the problem in existing humidification equipment where water delivery connectors often spray water directly onto the water surface or bottom of the tank during replenishment, resulting in significant noise during water impact and severely impacting the user experience.

[0016] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the humidification device of the present invention; Figure 2 This is one of the cross-sectional schematic diagrams of the humidification device of the present invention; Figure 3 for Figure 2 An enlarged view of part A marked on the map; Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram and a partially enlarged schematic diagram of the water supply connector of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a second cross-sectional view and a partially enlarged view of the humidification device of the present invention; Figure 6 This is an exploded view of the humidification device of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the device cover of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the fog guiding channel of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a second schematic diagram of the humidification device of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the control circuit of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0019] like Figures 1 to 10The water supply connector shown is used to supply water to a water storage tank 91. It includes a connector body 1 disposed on the side wall of the water storage tank 91. The connector body 1 is integrally formed and includes a water supply channel 2 and a water inlet 3 communicating with the water supply channel 2. The water supply channel 2 extends toward the side wall of the water storage tank 91, so that the water flowing out of the water inlet 3 impacts the side wall of the water storage tank 91 and flows along the side wall to the bottom of the water storage tank 91, thereby reducing water flow noise. This invention features a connector body comprising a water delivery channel and a water inlet connected to the water delivery channel. The water delivery channel extends towards the side wall of the water storage tank, ensuring that the water flow first impacts the side wall of the tank after exiting the water inlet, rather than directly striking the water surface or bottom. The side wall buffers and guides the water flow, allowing it to slide smoothly down the side wall to the bottom. This helps reduce splashing and turbulence caused by free fall or high-speed impact, thereby reducing impact noise during water replenishment. This effectively solves the problem in existing humidification equipment where water delivery connectors often spray water directly onto the water surface or bottom of the tank during replenishment, resulting in significant noise during water impact and severely impacting the user experience.

[0020] like Figures 1 to 10 The water conveying channel 2 shown includes a first water conveying channel 21 arranged along a first direction and a second water conveying channel 22 arranged along a second direction. The second water conveying channel 22 is connected to the first water conveying channel 21 and the water inlet 3, and the second water conveying channel 22 extends toward the side wall of the water storage tank 91. Furthermore, by setting up a two-stage structure of the first water conveying channel 21 and the second water conveying channel 22, the water flow changes direction and slows down before entering the water storage tank 91. The second water conveying channel 22 extends toward the side wall of the water storage tank 91, guiding the water flow to impact the side wall first rather than directly hitting the water surface or the bottom of the tank. After being buffered by the side wall, the water flow flows smoothly down the wall, which helps to reduce splashing, bubbles and turbulence, thereby significantly reducing the water flow impact noise generated during the water replenishment process.

[0021] Furthermore, the first water conveying channel 21 and the second water conveying channel 22 are designed to allow the water flow to change direction and disperse kinetic energy within the channels, preventing high-speed water flow from directly impacting the bottom of the water storage tank 91 and causing severe disturbance. Secondly, the second water conveying channel 22 extends precisely toward the side wall, forming a smooth flow path with the arc-shaped side wall of the water storage tank 91, allowing the kinetic energy of the water to be gradually dissipated. This not only improves the stability of the water replenishment process but also reduces water splashing or water level fluctuations caused by turbulent water flow.

[0022] Specifically, the first water conveying channel 21 is set along a first direction, which corresponds to the X-axis of the three-dimensional coordinate system; the second water conveying channel 22 is set along a second direction, which corresponds to the Y-axis of the three-dimensional coordinate system; and the water storage tank 91 is set along a vertical direction, that is, the water storage tank 91 extends along the Z-axis of the three-dimensional coordinate system.

[0023] Optionally, in some embodiments, an acute angle is formed between the first water conveying channel 21 and the second water conveying channel 22. The setting of the acute angle allows the water to flow from the first water conveying channel 21 into the second water conveying channel 22 with a smooth transition, which helps to reduce the turbulence and impact of the water flow at the turning point of the channel. This not only ensures the water conveying efficiency, but also further reduces the noise generated by the water flow in the channel.

[0024] Furthermore, as a preferred embodiment of the present invention and not a limitation thereof, the first water conveying channel 21 and the second water conveying channel 22 are vertically connected. The vertical connection structure is relatively simple and compact, which can make full use of the installation space of the water storage tank 91 and adapt to the internal layout of various equipment. After the water flows down from the first water conveying channel 21 to the vertically connected second water conveying channel 22, the direction is quickly guided to the side wall, the turning path is clear, the water flow is stable, and the splashing and noise generated during the turning process can be effectively avoided.

[0025] like Figures 1 to 10 The second water conveying channel 22 shown is located below the first water conveying channel 21; Furthermore, the second water conveying channel 22 is located below the first water conveying channel 21. The water can flow downwards naturally by its own gravity without the need for additional power assistance. This helps to reduce the stagnation and turbulence of the water in the channel, and helps to ensure smooth and efficient water conveyance. At the same time, gravity guidance makes it easier for the water to maintain a stable state after entering the second water conveying channel 22. The impact force is smaller when flowing towards the side wall of the water storage tank 91, and the stability of the flow along the wall is stronger, which further reduces the noise generated by the water flow impact.

[0026] Furthermore, the arrangement of the second water conveying channel 22 below the first water conveying channel 21 is conducive to making full use of the vertical space of the water storage tank 91, so that the water conveying channels are reasonably distributed along the height direction and avoid excessive extension in the horizontal direction.

[0027] Specifically, the connection between the first water conveying channel 21 and the second water conveying channel 22 is stepped, that is, a gradual transition structure in height or cross-sectional size is formed in the area where the two meet, which can effectively reduce the sudden change in water flow speed during the channel turning process; secondly, the stepped transition helps to guide the water flow to turn smoothly and concentrate on the second water conveying channel 22, further improving the stability and controllability of the water flow.

[0028] like Figures 1 to 10The second water conveying channel 22 shown includes a first guide wall 221 located near the side wall of the water storage tank 91, a second guide wall 222 located away from the side wall of the water storage tank 91, and a water outlet end face 223 connected between the first guide wall 221 and the second guide wall 222. Furthermore, by setting a first guide wall 221 near the side wall of the water storage tank 91 and a second guide wall 222 away from the side wall in the second water conveying channel 22, and connecting the two by the water outlet end face 223, a clear flow channel boundary is formed, which can effectively constrain and concentrate the water flow to the side wall of the water storage tank 91; secondly, the water flow, guided by the first guide wall 221, will preferentially impact the side wall, avoiding scattering or direct fall to the water surface, which is conducive to significantly reducing impact noise and splashing, thereby improving the quietness and stability of the water replenishment process.

[0029] Furthermore, the first guide wall 221, the second guide wall 222, and the outlet end face 223 together enclose a water conveying cavity with a specific cross-sectional shape, so that the water flow is rectified and focused before approaching the water inlet 3, which helps to suppress turbulence and vortex generation, ensures that the water flow is ejected from the water inlet 3 in a more uniform and concentrated state, and improves the control accuracy of the impact position.

[0030] Specifically, the first guide wall 221, the second guide wall 222 and the outlet end face 223 form an integrated enclosure structure, which is conducive to improving the structural strength and impact resistance of the second water conveyance channel 22, and can withstand the long-term impact of water flow without easily deforming.

[0031] like Figures 1 to 10 The first guide wall 221 shown is curved, and the second guide wall 222 is arc-shaped. Furthermore, the curved first guide wall 221 and the arc-shaped second guide wall 222 together form a continuous and smooth inner wall profile, avoiding sharp corners or abrupt cross sections in the flow channel. This allows the water flow to smoothly turn along the wall surface when passing through the second water delivery channel 22, effectively suppressing the generation of eddies, bubbles and local negative pressure, helping to reduce flow noise, and improving the continuity and stability of the water flow, laying the foundation for subsequent precise impact on the side wall of the water storage tank.

[0032] Furthermore, the first guide wall 221 is close to the side wall of the water tank 91, and its curved design can be set according to the water flow impact angle. The second guide wall 222 is arc-shaped, which forms a gentle constraint on the outer edge of the water flow. The two work together to moderately "gather" the water flow and guide it to the central area of ​​the water outlet 3, making the outflowing water jet more concentrated and the direction more controllable. This allows it to more effectively impact and conform to the arc-shaped side wall of the water tank 91, which helps to enhance the smoothness of sliding down the wall and further reduce splashing and noise.

[0033] Furthermore, compared to straight walls, arc-shaped and curved structures have stronger resistance to water flow impact, can disperse the stress generated by long-term water flow impact, help avoid wall deformation or damage, and help extend the service life of the joint body 1.

[0034] like Figures 1 to 10 The connection between the first water conveying channel 21 and the second water conveying channel 22 shown is provided with a curved transition section 23; Furthermore, the curved transition section 23 abandons the abrupt structure of the traditional right-angle turn and connects the first water conveying channel 21 and the second water conveying channel 22 with a smooth curved surface. This is conducive to fully conforming to the natural trajectory of the water flow when it turns, and helps to avoid the water flow from forming turbulence or hitting the wall at the turning point. It also greatly reduces the impact noise generated by the water flow turning, while keeping the water flow in a continuous and stable state.

[0035] Furthermore, the smooth curved transition section 23 can reduce the flow resistance of water at the channel connection, avoid energy loss of water due to turning, and allow water to flow from the first water supply channel 21 into the second water supply channel 22 in a more efficient state. This not only ensures a stable water supply and meets the needs of humidification equipment for rapid water replenishment, but also reduces the possibility of water stagnation and siltation.

[0036] Furthermore, the curved transition section 23 can effectively disperse the local stress caused by the long-term impact of water flow, avoid cracking and deformation at the connection due to stress concentration, and help extend the service life of the water supply joint; at the same time, the rounded curved structure is easy to process and can form an integrated connection with the first water supply channel 21 and the second water supply channel 22, which helps to improve the overall structural strength and sealing of the joint body 1.

[0037] like Figures 1 to 10 The humidification device shown includes a device body 9, a water storage tank 91 disposed within the device body 9, and a water supply connector as described above disposed on the side wall of the water storage tank 91, wherein the water storage tank 91 has a circular cross-section. Furthermore, the circular cross-section naturally forms a continuous arc surface on the side wall of the water tank 91. When the water supply connector guides the water flow to this side wall, the water flow can slide smoothly down the smooth curved surface, avoiding direct impact on the water surface or the bottom of the tank. Secondly, the arc wall surface plays a uniform buffering and guiding role for the water flow, which helps to significantly reduce splashing, bubbles and turbulence, thereby greatly reducing the impact noise during the water replenishment process and helping to improve the user experience in a quiet environment.

[0038] Specifically, the main body 9 of the equipment includes a lower water tank, a heating mechanism, an atomizing mechanism, and a water supply mechanism located below the water storage tank 91. The heating mechanism and the atomizing mechanism are assembled between the lower water tank and the water storage tank 91, forming a layered functional structure. The water supply mechanism consists of a water supply pipe and a water pump. One end of the water supply pipe is connected to the lower water tank, and the other end is connected to the connector body 1 of the water delivery connector. The water pump provides power to transport the water in the lower water tank to the water storage tank 91. During the transportation process, the water supply pipe passes through the heating plate of the heating mechanism. The water is rapidly heated when it passes through the heating plate. The heated warm water flows smoothly into the water storage tank 91 through the water delivery connector, and is then atomized by the atomizing mechanism and released to the outside, so that the output water mist has warm characteristics, providing users with a warm and comfortable humidification experience.

[0039] Alternatively, the atomizing mechanism may employ one of the following: ultrasonic atomization, centrifugal atomization, or steam atomization.

[0040] like Figures 1 to 10 The main body 9 of the device shown includes a circuit board and a water level detection mechanism electrically connected to the circuit board. The water level detection mechanism includes a mounting panel 921 disposed on the outer wall of the water storage tank 91, a liquid level sensor 922 disposed between the mounting panel 921 and the outer wall of the water storage tank 91, and a conductive cotton 923 disposed on the side of the liquid level sensor 922 near the outer wall of the water storage tank 91. Furthermore, the liquid level sensor 922 is located between the outer wall of the water tank 91 and the mounting panel 921, without needing to extend into the water tank 91, thus avoiding direct contact with the water and effectively preventing electrode corrosion, scaling, or short circuit risks. Secondly, in conjunction with conductive cotton 923 as a signal transmission medium, it can accurately sense water level changes without compromising the sealing of the water tank 91, which is beneficial to improving the long-term stability and safety of the detection mechanism.

[0041] Furthermore, the conductive cotton 923 is soft, porous, and has good conductivity. When it is attached to the outer wall of the water level sensor 922 and the water tank 91, it can adapt to the curved contour of the water tank 91, which helps to increase the effective contact area between the liquid level sensor 922 and the outer wall of the water tank 91. This helps to improve the uniformity of the electric field distribution, thereby improving the sensitivity and linearity of the capacitive water level detection, effectively expanding the water level detection range and reducing false judgments.

[0042] Furthermore, the water level detection mechanism is fixed to the outside of the water tank 91 via the mounting panel 921, which is compact and easy to install. Secondly, the liquid level sensor 922 and the conductive cotton 923 are clamped between the mounting panel 921 and the outer wall of the water tank 91, without the need for additional sealing or openings, which not only simplifies the assembly process but also facilitates later replacement or maintenance.

[0043] Optionally, in some embodiments, the number of liquid level sensors 922 is set to multiple, which is beneficial to realize graded monitoring of different water levels in the water storage tank 91. It can not only accurately capture key states such as full water and water shortage, but also provide real-time feedback on intermediate water level changes, providing multi-dimensional water level data for the circuit board to realize intelligent start and stop. At the same time, the setting of multiple liquid level sensors 922 can form redundancy backup, avoiding monitoring failure caused by the failure of a single liquid level sensor 922, which helps to improve the reliability of water level detection and the safety of equipment operation.

[0044] Furthermore, as a preferred embodiment of the invention and not a limitation thereof, the number of liquid level sensors 922 is two and arranged vertically, which can accurately locate two key water level nodes, high and low. The high-level liquid level sensor 922 can detect the full water status of the water storage tank 91 and trigger the water supply mechanism to stop replenishing water to prevent overflow. The low-level liquid level sensor 922 can promptly capture the water shortage signal and control the atomizing mechanism and heating mechanism to stop working to avoid dry burning. The vertical layout of the two liquid level sensors 922 is simple and efficient. Under the premise of ensuring the core safety monitoring requirements, there is no need to add too many extra components, which not only reduces the cost and installation complexity, but also conforms to the natural settling characteristics of water, which helps to ensure the accuracy of water level detection and timely response.

[0045] like Figures 1 to 10 The device body 9 shown includes a device housing 931 and a device cover 932 covering the device housing 931. The device housing 931 and the device cover 932 form a mist guiding channel 94. The mist guiding channel 94 extends along the circumferential direction of the device housing 931. The device housing 931 is provided with a spray head 95 that penetrates the device cover 932. One side of the mist guiding channel 94 communicates with the water storage tank 91, and the other side of the mist guiding channel 94 communicates with the spray head 95. Furthermore, the mist guiding channel 94 is formed by the enclosure of the equipment housing 931 and the equipment cover 932, and extends circumferentially along the equipment housing 931 to form a continuous mist flow path, which helps to prevent the mist from leaking or spreading during transmission. Secondly, the mist guiding channel 94 concentrates and guides the atomized water mist to the spray head 95, which helps to ensure that the mist is discharged stably and directionally, effectively improving the humidification efficiency and the uniformity of mist output.

[0046] Furthermore, the fog guiding channel 94 is formed by the assembly gap between the equipment housing 931 and the equipment cover 932, eliminating the need for additional independent ducts or air ducts, which helps save internal space and contributes to the miniaturization of the whole machine.

[0047] Furthermore, since the mist guiding channel 94 extends circumferentially along the equipment housing 931, and the path is arc-shaped and has a certain length, when the main body of the equipment 9 is accidentally tilted, even if the liquid in the water storage tank 91 flows into the mist guiding channel 94, it will be effectively blocked due to the curved direction and long flow path of the mist guiding channel 94. This helps to delay or prevent water from flowing out of the spray head 95 quickly, thereby significantly reducing the risk of leakage and improving the safety of use.

[0048] Optionally, the equipment cover 932 is provided with a plurality of baffles 9321. The baffles 9321 extend toward the equipment housing 931 and are staggered to form a non-continuous, staggered shielding structure. The staggered baffles 9321 form a tortuous physical barrier in the mist guiding channel 94, which can effectively extend the flow path of the liquid in the channel. When the main body of the equipment 9 tilts or is accidentally overturned, it can significantly block and slow down the rate at which water in the water tank 91 leaks directly from the spray head 95 through the mist guiding channel 94.

[0049] like ​ The method for detecting the water level in a humidification device, as shown, includes a control circuit on a circuit board. A liquid level sensor 922 is electrically coupled to the outer wall of a water tank 91 via a conductive cotton 923 and is electrically connected to the control circuit. The method comprises the following steps: S1: Fix the liquid level sensor 922 and conductive cotton 923 to the target water level detection position on the outer wall of the water storage tank 91; S2: A detection signal is applied to the liquid level sensor 922 through the control circuit, and the capacitive sensing value corresponding to the water level state is obtained through the conductive cotton 923; S3: Compare the capacitance sensing value with a preset threshold set based on the target water level detection location; S4: When the capacitance sensing value is greater than or equal to the preset threshold, it is determined that the water level in the water storage tank 91 has reached or exceeded the target water level detection position. S5: Output water level status signal based on the judgment result to control the water supply and atomization operation of the humidification equipment.

[0050] Furthermore, step S1 also includes the following steps: S11: Determine the installation height of the liquid level sensor 922 according to the target water level detection position, and select a sensing electrode that matches the curvature of the outer wall of the water storage tank 91. Specifically, the liquid level sensor 922 can adopt conductive structures such as PCB copper foil, flat-top spring, helical spring or copper needle, preferably a long strip PCB copper foil, in order to balance the sensing area and parasitic capacitance control; when the water tank 91 is cylindrical, it should be ensured that the sensing electrode can fit against the arc surface of its outer wall to avoid electric field attenuation due to gaps.

[0051] Specifically, parasitic capacitance refers to the unintended distributed capacitance that inevitably forms between the liquid level sensor 922 and its connecting traces and surrounding conductors (such as the circuit board ground plane, adjacent components, and the tank wall) in the actual circuit. Its magnitude is affected by factors such as sensor area, trace length, PCB layout, and container material and wall thickness. This parasitic capacitance will be superimposed on the sensing signal, affecting the reference value and sensitivity of capacitance detection. Therefore, it needs to be controlled through reasonable design (such as shortening the traces, avoiding back-side grounding, and selecting high-precision C1 / C4 capacitors for matching) to ensure the accuracy and consistency of water level detection.

[0052] S12: Attach conductive cotton 923 to the side of liquid level sensor 922 near water tank 91, and combine the two to form a sensing component; Specifically, the conductive cotton 923 is made of flexible conductive material, such as conductive foam or conductive non-woven fabric. The conductive cotton 923 has good compression resilience and conductivity. When attached between the liquid level sensor 922 and the outer wall of the water tank 91, it can effectively fill the tiny gap between the two, which is beneficial to enhance the electric field coupling strength and expand the effective sensing area. It is suitable for non-planar or curved containers with assembly tolerances.

[0053] S13: The sensing component is fixed to the target water level detection position on the outer wall of the water tank 91 via the mounting panel 921, and a spring is set to apply a clamping force to ensure that the conductive cotton 923 is tightly attached to the outer wall of the water tank 91. Specifically, the mounting panel 921 and the spring component together form a clamping mechanism. One end of the spring component abuts against the mounting panel 921, and the other end abuts against the conductive cotton 923, thereby providing continuous elastic pressure. This structure can adapt to the curved surface of the water tank 91, ensuring that the conductive cotton 923 fits the entire area and avoiding detection blind spots caused by partial detachment. At the same time, the wiring of the liquid level sensor 922 should be as short and thin as possible, and components or large areas should not be laid on the back to reduce parasitic capacitance and thus improve detection accuracy.

[0054] Furthermore, step S2 also includes the following steps: S21: A high-frequency detection signal is applied to the sensing electrode of the liquid level sensor 922 through the control circuit, and a matching reference signal is applied simultaneously to the reference channel; Specifically, the control circuit can be built on a circuit board and has two input channels, CIN2 and CIN1. CIN2 is connected to the liquid level sensor 922, and CIN1 is connected to a reference capacitor (composed of C1 and C4 in series). The control circuit outputs a high-frequency excitation signal, such as a square wave, to the CIN2 channel to excite the electric field around the sensing electrode. At the same time, the CIN1 channel provides a reference capacitor signal. The two form a differential comparison structure. By reasonably setting the capacitance values ​​of C1 and C4 (assuming that C1 and C4 are both 11pF capacitors with 1% accuracy, their series capacitance value is (C1×C4)÷(C1+C4)=5.5pF, with an accuracy of 0.5%), the capacitance values ​​of CIN1 and CIN2 are made close in the anhydrous state, thereby obtaining the highest detection sensitivity.

[0055] Specifically, the circuit board is an SC01B level board. The SC01B level board is an NMOS open-drain output board with a built-in pull-up resistor of about 10KΩ at the output port. When no water is detected, the output is high level, and when water is detected, the output is low level.

[0056] Specifically, C1 and C4 are reference capacitors used to adjust the sensitivity of water level detection. They are connected in series to form the reference capacitor of the CIN1 channel, and their capacitance value directly affects the positioning accuracy of the detection point. Preferably, C1 and C4 are NPO chip capacitors with a precision of ±1% or higher, so as to effectively match the parasitic capacitance of the CIN2 channel and enable the system to achieve the best detection sensitivity at the target water level.

[0057] S22: The conductive cotton 923 is used to conduct the electric field coupling path between the liquid level sensor 922 and the outer wall of the water tank 91, so that the capacitance value of the sensing electrode is dynamically adjusted with the change of water level. Specifically, conductive cotton 923, as a flexible conductive medium, adheres to the space between the liquid level sensor 922 and the outer wall of the water tank 91, effectively eliminating air gaps and enhancing the electric field penetration capability. When there is no water in the water tank 91, the medium in the sensing area is air (dielectric constant ≈ 1), and the capacitance of the CIN2 channel is small. When the water level rises to the corresponding height of the sensing area, water (dielectric constant ≈ 80) enters the range of electric field action, causing the CIN2 capacitance to increase significantly. Due to the good conductivity and adhesion of conductive cotton 923, this capacitance change can be stably and efficiently conducted to the control circuit, avoiding signal attenuation or misjudgment due to poor contact.

[0058] S23: The control circuit acquires the capacitance sensing value of the CIN2 channel and performs a differential comparison with the reference capacitance value of the CIN1 channel, and outputs the corresponding original capacitance sensing signal. Specifically, the control circuit continuously monitors the capacitance difference between CIN2 and CIN1 (ΔC = CIN2 – CIN1). According to the principle of the SC01B chip, when ΔC > the threshold, it is determined that "water is present"; otherwise, it is determined that "water is absent". This differential structure can effectively suppress ambient temperature drift, power supply fluctuations and parasitic capacitance interference, and improve detection stability. The output original capacitance sensing value can be an analog voltage, a digital signal or a high or low level (such as NMOS open-drain output) for subsequent logic judgment.

[0059] Furthermore, step S3 also includes the following steps: S31: Based on the target water level detection position, a preset threshold is set by adjusting the reference capacitors (C1 and C4) on the CIN1 channel to make the capacitance values ​​of CIN1 and CIN2 close in the waterless state, so as to obtain the highest detection sensitivity. Specifically, the preset threshold is not a fixed value, but a dynamic comparison benchmark set through hardware calibration. After the equipment is assembled, the liquid level sensor 922 is fixed to the target water level height (such as low or high water level) outside the water tank 91. Then, the reference capacitance value formed by C1 and C4 in series on the CIN1 channel is adjusted (such as C1=11pF, C4=12pF, equivalent to about 5.74pF) so that the parasitic capacitance of the CIN2 channel (determined by the sensor, wiring, container wall, etc.) in the waterless state is basically equal to the capacitance of CIN1. When CIN2–CIN1>0.2pF, it is determined that "there is water". Therefore, adjusting the two to be close can make the system obtain the maximum sensitivity at the target water level.

[0060] S32: During the detection process, the capacitance sensing value of the CIN2 channel is acquired in real time and compared with the reference capacitance value of the CIN1 channel to calculate the capacitance difference ΔC=CIN2–CIN1. Specifically, the control circuit continuously monitors the capacitance status of the two input channels; CIN2 is connected to the liquid level sensor 922, whose capacitance value changes dynamically with the water level; CIN1 is connected to a fixed reference capacitor (C1 and C4 in series); the circuit board performs differential calculations on the two and outputs the ΔC value; this differential structure can effectively suppress environmental interference and ensure that the comparison results are stable and reliable.

[0061] S33: Compare the capacitance difference ΔC with the internal judgment threshold of the circuit board (typically 0.2pF). If ΔC ≥ 0.2pF, the water level is determined to have reached the target detection position; otherwise, it is determined not to have reached it. The circuit board has built-in discrimination logic: when ΔC≥0.2pF, it is considered that there is water in the sensing area (abrupt change in dielectric constant), and the output is low level (NMOS open drain); otherwise, the output is high level. This 0.2pF is a typical threshold, which is suitable for most plastic containers with a wall thickness of 1-3mm. If the sensitivity is too high or too low due to structural differences, the liquid level line can be finely calibrated by finely adjusting the CDC capacitor (such as from 15pF to 12pF or 18pF).

[0062] Specifically, the control circuit also includes a CDC capacitor, which is an external surface-mount capacitor (preferably made of NPO material, typically 15pF) used to participate in the charging and discharging process of the CIN2 channel, thereby fine-tuning the sensitivity of the liquid level detection. Adjusting the value of the CDC capacitor can provide fine compensation for the water level judgment threshold. When the liquid level detection point is slightly too high, the value of the CDC capacitor can be appropriately reduced, and vice versa. However, its adjustment range is much smaller than that of the reference capacitors (C1 and C4) on the CIN1 channel, and it is mainly used for the final optimization during the calibration stage.

[0063] Furthermore, step S4 also includes the following steps: S41: Real-time monitoring of the output level of the control circuit, which is determined by the capacitance difference ΔC between CIN2 and CIN1; Specifically, the control circuit adopts an NMOS open-drain output structure with a built-in pull-up resistor of about 10kΩ. When ΔC=CIN2–CIN1<0.2pF (i.e., no water or water level not reaching the detection point), the output is high. When ΔC≥0.2pF (i.e., the water level has covered the sensing area), the NMOS is turned on and the output is pulled low. Therefore, the output level directly reflects whether the water level has reached the target detection position.

[0064] S42: When the output level is detected to be low, it is determined that the capacitance sensing value has reached or exceeded the preset threshold, that is, the water level has covered the sensing area corresponding to the liquid level sensor 922. Specifically, when CIN2–CIN1 > the threshold (typical value 0.2pF), water is considered to be detected. This threshold is a discrimination benchmark solidified inside the circuit board, which has good consistency and anti-interference ability. In this invention, since C1 and C4 have been calibrated to be close to the parasitic capacitance of CIN2 in the waterless state, once the water level rises to the sensing area, ΔC quickly exceeds 0.2pF, the output level jumps to low, and the system determines "water level has reached".

[0065] S43: Trigger the corresponding water level determination result based on the output level status, and synchronize it to the main control module of the humidification equipment for subsequent control decisions; Furthermore, step S5 also includes the following steps: S51: Based on the judgment result of S4, the control circuit outputs the corresponding digital water level status signal, where "water present" corresponds to a low level and "no water present" corresponds to a high level; Specifically, the control circuit adopts an NMOS open-drain output structure with an internal pull-up resistor of approximately 10kΩ. When the water level reaches the target detection position (ΔC≥0.2pF), the NMOS is turned on, and the output terminal is pulled down to a low level (≈0V), indicating "water present". When the water level does not reach the detection point, the NMOS is turned off, and the output terminal is maintained at a high level (≈VCC) through the pull-up resistor, indicating "no water".

[0066] S52: Transmits the water level status signal to the main control module of the humidification equipment, and the main control module executes the corresponding control strategy according to the signal level; Specifically, the humidification equipment is equipped with a main control module, such as a microcontroller. The main control module is electrically connected to the atomizing mechanism, the water supply mechanism, and the heating mechanism, and can read the water level status signal in real time and execute operations according to preset logic.

[0067] S53: The water supply mechanism, atomizing mechanism, and heating mechanism are linked according to the water level. Specifically, the water supply system heats the water in the lower tank via a heating plate and then pumps it into the storage tank 91. The atomizing and heating mechanisms are located below the storage tank. When the low-level sensor detects "water shortage" (high level), the system immediately cuts off the power to the atomizing and heating systems. When the high-level sensor detects "full water" (low level), the system stops the water pump. No manual intervention is required, which significantly improves equipment safety, energy efficiency, and user experience.

[0068] The above examples are merely illustrative of the technical content of the present invention to facilitate easier understanding by the reader, but do not imply that the implementation of the present invention is limited to these examples. Any technical extensions or re-creations made based on the present invention are protected by the present invention. The scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A water supply connector for supplying water to a water storage tank (91), characterized in that: The device includes a connector body (1) disposed on the side wall of the water storage tank (91). The connector body (1) is integrally formed and includes a water conveying channel (2) and a water inlet (3) communicating with the water conveying channel (2). The water conveying channel (2) extends toward the side wall of the water storage tank (91) so that the water flowing out from the water inlet (3) impacts the side wall of the water storage tank (91) and flows along the side wall to the bottom of the water storage tank (91) to reduce water flow noise.

2. A water supply connector according to claim 1, characterized in that: The water conveying channel (2) includes a first water conveying channel (21) arranged along a first direction and a second water conveying channel (22) arranged along a second direction. The second water conveying channel (22) is connected to the first water conveying channel (21) and the water inlet (3) respectively, and the second water conveying channel (22) extends toward the side wall of the water storage tank (91).

3. A water supply connector according to claim 2, characterized in that: The second water conveying channel (22) is located below the first water conveying channel (21).

4. A water supply connector according to claim 2, characterized in that: The second water conveying channel (22) includes a first guide wall (221) located near the side wall of the water storage tank (91), a second guide wall (222) located away from the side wall of the water storage tank (91), and an outlet end face (223) connecting the first guide wall (221) and the second guide wall (222).

5. A water supply connector according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first guide wall (221) is curved, and the second guide wall (222) is arc-shaped.

6. A water supply connector according to claim 2, characterized in that: A curved transition section (23) is provided at the connection between the first water conveying channel (21) and the second water conveying channel (22).

7. A humidification device, characterized in that: The device includes a main body (9), a water storage tank (91) disposed within the main body (9), and a water supply connector as described in any one of claims 1-6 disposed on the side wall of the water storage tank (91), wherein the water storage tank (91) has a circular cross-section.

8. A humidification device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The main body (9) of the device includes a circuit board and a water level detection mechanism electrically connected to the circuit board. The water level detection mechanism includes a mounting panel (921) disposed on the outer wall of the water storage tank (91), a liquid level sensor (922) disposed between the mounting panel (921) and the outer wall of the water storage tank (91), and a conductive cotton (923) disposed on the side of the liquid level sensor (922) near the outer wall of the water storage tank (91).

9. A humidification device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The main body of the device (9) includes a device housing (931) and a device cover (932) covering the device housing (931). The device housing (931) and the device cover (932) enclose a mist guiding channel (94). The mist guiding channel (94) extends along the circumferential direction of the device housing (931). The device housing (931) is provided with a spray head (95) that penetrates the device cover (932). One side of the mist guiding channel (94) communicates with the water storage tank (91), and the other side of the mist guiding channel (94) communicates with the spray head (95).

10. A method for detecting the water level in a humidification device, wherein the circuit board is provided with a control circuit, and a liquid level sensor (922) is electrically coupled to the outer wall of the water storage tank (91) through conductive cotton (923) and electrically connected to the control circuit, characterized in that: Includes the following steps: S1: Fix the liquid level sensor (922) and conductive cotton (923) to the target water level detection position on the outer wall of the water storage tank (91); S2: A detection signal is applied to the liquid level sensor (922) through the control circuit, and the capacitive sensing value corresponding to the water level state is obtained through the conductive cotton (923); S3: Compare the capacitance sensing value with a preset threshold set based on the target water level detection location; S4: When the capacitance sensing value is greater than or equal to the preset threshold, it is determined that the water level in the water storage tank (91) has reached or exceeded the target water level detection position. S5: Output water level status signal based on the judgment result to control the water supply and atomization operation of the humidification equipment.

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