Breast pump

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of mother and baby products, in particular to a breast pump. The breast pump comprises a milk storage container and three differential capacitance sensor assemblies. The first group of differential capacitance sensor assemblies comprises a first detection electrode assembly, and the first detection electrode assembly is arranged in the top area in the rising direction of the liquid level of milk in the milk storage container; the second differential capacitive sensor assembly comprises a second detection electrode assembly which extends from the bottom area to the middle area; the third differential capacitive sensor assembly comprises a third detection electrode assembly, and the third detection electrode assembly extends from the middle area to the top area. According to the breast pump, the milk storage container is detected through the three differential capacitance sensor assemblies, the state of the milk storage container can be comprehensively determined in detail, the intelligent degree of the breast pump can be improved, interference can be effectively resisted through the differential capacitance sensor assemblies, and the detection accuracy is guaranteed.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of maternal and child products, and particularly relates to a breast pump. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the prior art, the milk volume and fullness detection technology of the breast pump has always been an industry problem. Common detection sensor methods include optical, capacitive and other sensor technologies. The capacitive sensor currently used is usually an inductive capacitive sensor, which is usually used to detect the liquid level of the milk storage container. The detection accuracy is relatively low, and is easily disturbed by external interference to cause false triggering of the breast pump or a large deviation in the detection result.

[0003] The inductive capacitive sensor has only one plate for detecting the capacitance between the plate and the ground. It can only output a high-level signal and a low-level signal. The high-level signal reflects that the capacitance change is greater than the preset threshold, and it is considered that the liquid level reaches the liquid level corresponding to the inductive capacitive sensor. The low-level signal reflects that the capacitance change is less than the preset threshold, and it is considered that the liquid level does not reach the liquid level corresponding to the inductive capacitive sensor.

[0004] However, in actual application, the inductive capacitive sensor is easily disturbed by various disturbances, such as milk wall hanging, dielectric constant difference of milk of different mothers, manufacturing error of the breast pump, human body contact and the like. These will interfere with the milk volume detection of the inductive capacitive sensor and affect the accuracy of milk volume or fullness detection.

[0005] For example, the interference of milk wall hanging of the milk storage container on the milk volume or fullness detection of the breast pump is particularly prominent. Milk wall hanging refers to the phenomenon that milk is "stuck" on the wall of the milk storage container due to surface tension. At this time, if the milk hanging on the wall is "stuck" in the detection area of the inductive capacitive sensor, the inductive capacitive sensor may output a high-level signal, causing the milk volume detection to be incorrect.

[0006] In addition, the prior art does not have a good detection method for milk ejection reflex or the critical state of emptying the milk storage container to the milk discharge. The detection of this critical state is crucial for mode switching or automatic start operation.

[0007] To solve any one of the above technical problems, the present application is proposed. CONTENT OF THE UTILITY MODEL

[0008] The breast pump provided by the present application aims to solve the technical problems in the prior art that the state of the milk storage container cannot be comprehensively detected and the inductive capacitive sensor is easily disturbed during detection, causing detection errors.

[0009] The present application provides a breast pump, which includes: a milk storage container and three groups of differential capacitance sensor assemblies; the first group of differential capacitance sensor assemblies includes a first detection electrode assembly, which is arranged in the top area in the direction of rising milk level in the milk storage container; the second group of differential capacitance sensor assemblies includes a second detection electrode assembly, which extends from the bottom area to the middle area in the direction of rising milk level in the milk storage container; and the third group of differential capacitance sensor assemblies includes a third detection electrode assembly, which extends from the middle area to the top area in the direction of rising milk level in the milk storage container.

[0010] In the above technical solution, on the one hand, the differential capacitive sensor assembly can quantitatively detect parameters such as milk status or liquid level. The presence of milk sticking to the wall does not materially affect the detection results, and the sensor exhibits strong anti-interference capabilities. On the other hand, the differential capacitive sensor assembly can be used to detect states such as the empty milk container and the critical state of breast milk discharge, thereby optimizing the user experience of the breast pump. Furthermore, by using three sets of differential capacitive sensors to monitor the milk container, the container's status can be comprehensively and detailedly determined, contributing to the improved intelligence of the breast pump.

[0011] In a possible implementation, in the direction of rising milk level, the height of the bottom of the third detection electrode assembly is higher than the height of the top of the second detection electrode assembly.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the milk storage container includes a milk storage container shell, which includes an inner side surface that contacts the milk and an outer side surface that does not contact the milk; the first detection electrode assembly, the second detection electrode assembly, and the third detection electrode assembly are all arranged on the outer side surface or near the outside of the outer side surface.

[0013] In the above implementation, the cleanliness of the milk can be ensured through non-contact measurement.

[0014] In one possible implementation, a first group of differential capacitance sensor assemblies is used to detect whether a milk storage container is full of milk; a second group of differential capacitance sensor assemblies is used to detect a milk volume within a first milk volume range or a liquid level within a first liquid level range of the milk storage container; and a third group of differential capacitance sensor assemblies is used to detect a milk volume within a second milk volume range or a liquid level within a second liquid level range of the milk storage container.

[0015] In the above implementation, the amount of milk in the milk storage container and the liquid level in the milk storage container are detected, allowing the user to know whether the stored milk is sufficient. In addition, the two differential capacitive sensor components can improve the measurement accuracy of the milk amount or liquid level.

[0016] In the above implementation, the milk full state is detected, so that the milk pumping can be stopped in time to prevent the milk storage container from overflowing.

[0017] In a possible implementation, the differential capacitive sensor assembly comprises a detection electrode assembly and a control circuit; the detection electrode assembly comprises at least a set of oppositely arranged parallel capacitive groups, and each parallel capacitive group comprises a first electrode and a second electrode; and the control circuit is configured to at least charge the detection electrode assembly and detect a capacitance value of the detection electrode assembly.

[0018] In a possible implementation, the first electrode and the second electrode are parallel plate electrodes.

[0019] In a possible implementation, the breast pump further comprises a processing unit, the control circuit comprises a conversion unit, and the conversion unit comprises an excitation module, a sampling module and a conversion module; the excitation module generates a charging signal for charging the detection electrode assembly, the charge on the detection electrode assembly is transmitted to the conversion module through the sampling module, and the conversion module converts an analog voltage into a digital signal; and the processing unit is configured to calculate a state parameter of the milk storage container corresponding to the differential capacitive sensor assembly according to the digital signal.

[0020] In a possible implementation, the breast pump further comprises a host, and the first detection electrode assembly, the second detection electrode assembly and the third detection electrode assembly are arranged in the host.

[0021] In a possible implementation, the host comprises a host shell, the first detection electrode assembly, the second detection electrode assembly and the third detection electrode assembly are arranged on the host shell, and the host shell is mounted on or at least partially in contact with an outer side surface of the milk storage container shell, and the first detection electrode assembly, the second detection electrode assembly and the third detection electrode assembly are close to or in contact with the outer side surface of the milk storage container shell.

[0022] In a possible implementation, the host further comprises a component arrangement layer and a sensor arrangement layer, the sensor arrangement layer is arranged between the component arrangement layer and the host shell, and the first detection electrode assembly, the second detection electrode assembly and the third detection electrode assembly are arranged in the sensor arrangement layer.

[0023] In a possible implementation, the breast pump further comprises a breast shield and a host, the breast shield comprises a flange for fitting a breast, and the milk storage container is configured to receive and store the breast milk collected by the breast shield and is in communication with the breast shield; and the host comprises a negative pressure mechanism configured to directly or indirectly apply a negative pressure to the breast shield to suck the breast milk into the milk storage container. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a parallel plate capacitor provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0025] Figure 2 is a detection principle diagram of a differential capacitive sensor assembly provided by an embodiment of the application.

[0026] Figure 3 is a liquid level detection principle diagram of a differential capacitive sensor assembly provided by an embodiment of the application.

[0027] Figure 4 is a first perspective view of a first type of breast pump provided by an embodiment of the application.

[0028] Figure 5 is a first exploded view of a first type of breast pump provided by an embodiment of the application.

[0029] Figure 6 is a second exploded view of a first type of breast pump provided by an embodiment of the application.

[0030] Figure 7 is a host schematic diagram of a first type of breast pump provided by an embodiment of the application after hiding the shell.

[0031] Figure 8 is a first setting schematic diagram of a differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring a liquid level or milk volume on a host shell provided by an embodiment of the application.

[0032] Figure 9 is a second setting schematic diagram of a differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring a liquid level or milk volume on a host shell provided by an embodiment of the application.

[0033] Figure 10 is a third setting schematic diagram of a differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring a liquid level or milk volume on a host shell provided by an embodiment of the application.

[0034] Figure 11 is a fourth setting schematic diagram of a differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring a liquid level or milk volume on a host shell provided by an embodiment of the application.

[0035] Figure 12 is a fifth setting schematic diagram of a differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring a liquid level or milk volume on a host shell provided by an embodiment of the application.

[0036] Figure 13 is a first setting schematic diagram of a differential capacitive sensor assembly in a sensor setting layer provided by an embodiment of the application.

[0037] Figure 14 is a second setting schematic diagram of a differential capacitive sensor assembly in a sensor setting layer provided by an embodiment of the application.

[0038] Figure 15 is a third setting schematic diagram of a differential capacitive sensor assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application in a sensor setting layer.

[0039] Figure 16 is a supplementary schematic diagram of a differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring empty milk state provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0040] Figure 17 is a detection principle diagram of a differential capacitive sensor assembly for simultaneously detecting empty milk state and unit height milk liquid detection value provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0041] Figure 18 is a first combined setting mode schematic diagram of a plurality of differential capacitive sensor assemblies provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0042] Figure 19 is a second combined setting mode schematic diagram of a plurality of differential capacitive sensor assemblies provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0043] Figure 20 is a third combined setting mode schematic diagram of a plurality of differential capacitive sensor assemblies provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0044] Figure 21 is a fourth combined setting mode schematic diagram of a plurality of differential capacitive sensor assemblies provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0045] Figure 22 is a fifth combined setting mode schematic diagram of a plurality of differential capacitive sensor assemblies provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0046] Figure 23 is a first perspective view of a second type of breast pump provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0047] Figure 24 is a first exploded view of a second type of breast pump provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0048] Figure 25 is a host schematic diagram of a second type of breast pump provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0049] Figure 26 is a first schematic diagram of a milk storage container of a second type of breast pump provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0050] Figure 27 is a second schematic diagram of a milk storage container of a second type of breast pump provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0051] Figure 28 is a schematic diagram of a milk full state detection method provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0052] Figure 29 is a first setting schematic view of an optoelectronic sensor provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0053] Figure 30 is a second setting schematic view of an optoelectronic sensor provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0054] Figure 31 is a flow schematic view of a control method of a breast pump provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0055] Figure 32 is a structural schematic view of a third type of breast pump provided by an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] In order to make the purpose, technical scheme and advantages of the present application clearer, the present application will be further described in detail below with reference to the drawings and embodiments. The examples of the embodiments are shown in the drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present application, and cannot be understood as limiting the present application. In addition, it should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present application and cannot be used to limit the present application.

[0057] In the description of the present application, it should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "horizontal", "top", "bottom" and the like indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and are only used to facilitate the description of the present application and simplify the description, and therefore cannot be understood as indicating or implying that the devices or elements indicated must have a particular orientation, be constructed and operated in a particular orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as limiting the present application.

[0058] In addition, the terms "first", "second" are only used for description purposes, and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features. Therefore, the features limited by "first", "second" can explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of the present application, the meaning of "multiple" is two or more, unless otherwise specifically limited.

[0059] In the description of the utility model, it needs to explain, unless another explicit provision and limitation, the term "installation", "connection", "connect" should do the broad sense understanding, for example, can be fixed connection, also can be detachable connection, or integrally connected;Can be mechanical connection, also can be electrical connection or can communicate with each other;It can be directly connected, also can be indirectly connected through intermediate medium, can be the communication or the interaction of two units of two units inside.For ordinary skilled in the art, the above-mentioned terms can be understood according to the specific meaning of the utility model.

[0060] In the utility model, unless another explicit provision and limitation, the first feature is "on" or "under" the second feature can include the first and second features direct contact, also can include the first and second features are not direct contact but contact through the other features between them.Moreover, the first feature is "on", "above" and "on" the second feature includes the first feature is directly above and obliquely above the second feature, or just indicates that the first feature is higher than the second feature in horizontal height.The first feature is "under", "below" and "under" the second feature includes the first feature is directly below and obliquely below the second feature, or just indicates that the first feature is less than the second feature in horizontal height.

[0061] The following disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples for implementing different structures of the utility model. In order to simplify the disclosure of the utility model, the components and settings of specific examples are described below. Of course, they are only examples, and the purpose is not to limit the utility model. In addition, the utility model can refer to the same reference numerals and / or reference letters in different examples, and such repetition is for the purpose of simplification and clarity, which itself does not indicate the relationship between the various embodiments and / or settings discussed. In addition, the utility model provides examples of various specific processes and materials, but those skilled in the art can realize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0062] Specifically, the capacitance sensor is a kind of conversion device that converts measured physical quantity or mechanical quantity into capacitance variation, which is actually a capacitor with variable parameters, when the capacitance of the capacitance sensor changes, the charge amount on the electrode plate will change, thereby the corresponding relationship between the charge change amount and the measured physical quantity or mechanical quantity can be established, and the identification of the measured physical quantity or mechanical quantity can be realized.

[0063] Next, the basic principle of parallel plate capacitor is introduced, and the parallel plate capacitor is the basis of building a capacitance sensor, please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 It is the schematic diagram of the parallel plate capacitor provided by the embodiment of the application.

[0064] As Figure 1As shown, the first and second electrodes are parallel metal conductors, also known as plates or poles, and a uniform electric field exists between the two electrodes. Due to the edge effect, the electric field lines at the edge of the capacitor are curved and divergent.

[0065] The formula for calculating the capacitance of a parallel plate capacitor is as follows:

[0066]

[0067] wherein, is the dielectric constant of the material between the plates, S is the area of the two electrodes of the capacitor facing each other, is the dielectric constant of free space (8.85 x F / m), and d is the distance between the two electrodes of the capacitor.

[0068] Figure 1 S is equal to W times L.

[0069] In the related art, an inductive capacitive sensor is used on the breast pump to detect some parameters of the milk storage container of the breast pump. For example, multiple inductive capacitive sensors are used to detect the liquid level of the milk in the milk storage container, so as to calculate the volume of the milk in the current milk storage container according to the liquid level of the milk.

[0070] Specifically, the inductive capacitive sensor can only output a high level signal and a low level signal. The high level signal reflects that the capacitance change is greater than a preset threshold, and it is considered that the liquid level reaches the liquid level corresponding to the inductive capacitive sensor. The low level signal reflects that the capacitance change is less than the preset threshold, and it is considered that the liquid level does not reach the liquid level corresponding to the inductive capacitive sensor.

[0071] For example, a first inductive capacitive sensor is arranged at a first height on the container wall of the milk storage container, and a second inductive capacitive sensor is arranged at a second height. If the first inductive capacitive sensor outputs a high level signal, it is considered that the liquid level of the milk storage container has reached the first liquid level corresponding to the first inductive capacitive sensor. If the detection value of the second inductive capacitive sensor outputs a high level signal, it is considered that the liquid level of the milk storage container has reached the second liquid level corresponding to the second inductive capacitive sensor.

[0072] However, when the milk storage container is hung on the wall, which means that the milk is "stuck" on the container wall due to surface tension. At this time, if the milk is completely or partially "stuck" in the detection area of the inductive capacitive sensor, it is likely that the inductive capacitive sensor will incorrectly output a high level signal, resulting in an error in the milk volume detection.

[0073] For example, when the liquid surface in the milk storage container is tilted, if the milk covers the detection area of the inductive capacitive sensor, the detection value of the inductive capacitive sensor will also be incorrectly output as a high level signal, resulting in an incorrect milk volume detection.

[0074] Therefore, the inductive capacitive sensor is easily affected by milk wall hanging, liquid surface shaking, liquid surface tilting, factory machine parameter errors, human contact, different maternal milk dielectric constant differences, or other interference contacts, etc., resulting in poor detection of the milk volume in the milk storage container using the inductive capacitive sensor.

[0075] Specifically, the conventional inductive capacitive sensor is used to detect self-capacitance, which is the capacitance between the pole piece of the capacitive sensor and the ground. This type of sensor does not require two plates, but relies on the change in capacitance when the target object approaches the sensor for detection.

[0076] As Figures 2-3 For an embodiment of the present application, the basic principle of detecting the liquid level of differential capacitance is that, in view of the problems of the inductive capacitive sensor, the embodiment uses a differential capacitive sensor assembly as a sensor for detecting the state parameters of the milk storage container in the breast pump. The differential capacitive sensor assembly includes a detection electrode assembly, which is a capacitor composed of two electrodes arranged in parallel and opposite to each other. The differential capacitive sensor assembly is used to detect the mutual capacitance between the two electrodes of the capacitor, and the output result is no longer a high-low level signal, but a capacitance change value between the two electrodes or a digital signal converted from the capacitance change value.

[0077] For ease of description, the capacitor composed of two electrodes arranged in parallel and opposite to each other in the differential capacitive sensor assembly is referred to as a parallel capacitor group. In one possible embodiment, the parallel capacitor group is a standard parallel plate capacitor as shown in Figure 3 Figure 3 The parallel capacitor group in the above-mentioned standard parallel plate capacitor includes a first electrode 1000 and a second electrode 2000, and the facing planes of the two electrodes are completely aligned. In another possible embodiment, the facing planes of the two electrodes of the parallel capacitor group are only partially aligned, and the first electrode and the second electrode are partially misaligned in the area.

[0078] In addition, the differential capacitive sensor assembly in the present application includes not only the parallel capacitor group, but also a control circuit connected to the parallel capacitor group, as shown in Figure 2 The control circuit is used to charge the parallel capacitor group and collect the electric charge on the parallel capacitor group after a predetermined time, and determine the capacitance value of the parallel capacitor group according to the electric charge change speed and / or the electric charge change amount.

[0079] The control circuit includes a conversion unit, which includes an excitation module, a sampling module, and a conversion module. ​

[0080] The excitation module generates a charging signal for charging the differential capacitance sensor component. The charge on the differential capacitance sensor component is transmitted to the conversion module through the sampling module. The conversion module converts the analog voltage into a digital signal.

[0081] The conversion module is connected to the processing unit, and the processing unit is used to calculate the state parameter of the milk storage container corresponding to the differential capacitance sensor assembly according to the digital signal.

[0082] Optionally, the conversion unit is a capacitance-to-digital converter, and optionally, the conversion module is an analog-to-digital converter (ADC).

[0083] The following is a further introduction to the conversion unit. Please continue to refer to Figure 2 , Figure 2 FIG is a detection principle diagram of the differential capacitance sensor assembly provided in the embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 As shown, the detection electrode assembly is connected to the conversion unit, Figure 2 The sampling module in the control circuit includes a switched capacitor circuit and a sample-and-hold circuit.

[0084] The excitation module is used to generate an excitation signal, which is used to charge the parallel capacitor group in the detection electrode assembly. In some cases, the excitation signal is generated by an oscillator in the excitation module. In other cases, the excitation signal is generated by a clock signal received by the excitation module. This application is not limited to this.

[0085] The switched capacitor circuit is used to close the switch at the appropriate time to transfer the charge on the parallel capacitor group to the input of the ADC.

[0086] The sample-and-hold circuit is used to keep the voltage on the parallel capacitor group stable before the conversion module performs conversion, ensuring that the analog-to-digital converter reads a stable voltage value during the conversion process.

[0087] The conversion module is used to convert the analog voltage into a digital signal and input the digital signal into the processing unit ( Figure 2 (not shown). In some cases, the conversion module may also perform digital filtering during the conversion process to improve conversion accuracy.

[0088] The processing unit is used to determine the state parameter of the milk storage container corresponding to the differential capacitance sensor assembly according to the digital signal and the preset mapping relationship.

[0089] The structure of the control circuit is only illustrative, and in some embodiments, the control circuit can further include more or less components than illustrated, or combine certain components, or split certain components, or different component arrangement. The illustrated components can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of software and hardware. For example, part or all of the functions of the conversion unit can be integrated into the processing unit to save space, or the processing unit can be added to the conversion unit, which is not limited in the application.

[0090] An embodiment of the liquid level detection principle of the differential capacitive sensor assembly will be introduced below.

[0091] Please refer to Figure 3 , Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the liquid level detection principle of the differential capacitive sensor assembly provided by the embodiment of the application. Figure 3 The control circuit is not shown in the figure.

[0092] As Figure 3 shown, Figure 3 includes straight electric field lines of the first electrode 1000 facing the plane of the second electrode 2000, and also includes curved electric field lines of the side of the first electrode 1000 facing the side of the second electrode 2000, and the curved electric field lines pass through the liquid storage space of the container. Because the dielectric constant of the liquid is much greater than that of the air, as the liquid level rises, the dielectric constant between the two electrodes gradually increases, so that the capacitance value of the parallel capacitor group increases.

[0093] It can be understood that Figure 3 only part of the electric field lines of the parallel capacitor group is shown in the figure.

[0094] Figure 3 In the figure, the capacitance change of the differential capacitive sensor assembly has a proportional relationship with the change of the liquid level, so after the capacitance change is converted into a specific digital signal change, the specific change amount of the liquid level can be calculated according to the digital signal change. The capacitance change of the inductive capacitive sensor does not have a proportional relationship with the change of the liquid level, and the processing unit can only determine whether the liquid level reaches the corresponding height of the inductive capacitive sensor through the high-level signal or low-level signal output by the inductive capacitive sensor.

[0095] And compared with the measurement method of one inductive capacitive sensor corresponding to one liquid level in the prior art, Figure 3 the differential capacitive sensor assembly in the figure is arranged along the rising direction of the liquid level of the container, so that Figure 3 all changes of the liquid level in the process from empty milk to full milk of the container can be measured by one differential capacitive sensor assembly, realizing the measurement of all liquid levels by one sensor.

[0096] Optionally, the first electrode and the second electrode are further provided with a shielding layer 3000 away from the side of the container, so as to reduce external interference. It is defined that the first electrode and the second electrode detect the liquid level of the container through the electric field lines of the first side, and the above case can also be understood as that a sensor setting layer is arranged near the second side opposite to the first side, so as to block the electric field lines of the second side, thereby reducing external interference.

[0097] Figure 3 In the formula, d1 is the distance between the two opposite planes of the first electrode and the second electrode, and d2 is the distance between the first electrode and the second electrode and the liquid storage space of the container. The distance d1 between the two opposite planes of the first electrode and the second electrode of the parallel capacitor group is referred to as the pitch of the differential capacitive sensor assembly. The pitch d1 of the parallel capacitor group is proportional to the detection distance. In order to ensure that the differential capacitive sensor assembly can detect the change of the liquid level of the liquid storage space, it is necessary to ensure that d1 is greater than or equal to d2.

[0098] For example, it is assumed that Figure 3 In the formula, the maximum detection distance of the parallel capacitor group is d2. When the container is far away from the differential capacitive sensor assembly, so that the distance between the container and the differential capacitive sensor assembly is greater than d2, the pitch d1 can be increased, so as to increase the detection range of the parallel capacitor group.

[0099] However, the present application is not limited to Figure 3 the embodiments shown.

[0100] In another possible embodiment, the electric field lines between the opposite plane of the first electrode and the opposite plane of the second electrode in the differential capacitive sensor assembly pass through at least part of the milk storage space in the milk storage container, and the liquid level is detected through the electric field lines between the opposite planes.

[0101] In still another possible embodiment, the present application can also be provided with a plurality of differential capacitive sensor assemblies to detect the change of the liquid level. In one possible embodiment, each differential capacitive sensor assembly is used to measure different ranges of liquid level, so as to improve the measurement accuracy. In another possible embodiment, each differential capacitive sensor assembly is used to detect the same range of liquid level, and the validity of the measurement result is ensured by processing the detection result.

[0102] In the present application, the differential capacitive sensor assembly is used to measure the state parameters of the milk storage container in the breast pump. The state parameters of the milk storage container are described below.

[0103] The state parameters of the milk storage container include at least one of the amount of milk in the milk storage container, the liquid level in the milk storage container, the empty milk state, the full milk state, and the detection value of the unit height of milk.

[0104] The milk amount in the milk storage space and the liquid level height in the milk storage space are associated parameters, because in the case of a fixed milk storage container structure, the liquid level height and the milk amount can establish a clear corresponding relationship. When determining the milk amount according to the detection value of the differential capacitive sensor assembly, the milk amount can be directly determined according to the mapping relationship between the detection value and the milk amount, or the liquid level height can be determined according to the detection value, and then the milk amount can be determined according to the liquid level height. The present application does not make any limitation.

[0105] The milk amount in the milk storage space can be expressed in any one or more of a milk amount proportion value, a milk amount volume value, a milk amount weight, and a milk amount degree value, or other forms. The milk amount proportion value is, for example, 50%, representing that the current milk amount is 50% of the maximum storage capacity of the milk storage container. The milk amount volume value is, for example, 50 mL. The milk amount weight value is, for example, 10 g. The milk amount degree value is, for example, empty, low, medium, high, full, and the like. The above examples are only for illustration and do not constitute any limitation on the form of the milk amount in the milk storage space.

[0106] The liquid level height in the milk storage space can be expressed in any one or more of a liquid level height proportion value, a liquid level height specific value, and a liquid level height degree value, or other forms. The liquid level height proportion value is, for example, 50%. The liquid level height specific value is, for example, 5 cm. The liquid level height degree value is, for example, empty, low, medium, high, full, and the like. The above examples are only for illustration and do not constitute any limitation on the form of the milk amount in the milk storage space.

[0107] The empty milk state in the state parameter of the milk storage container includes an empty milk condition and a non-empty milk condition. The empty milk condition refers to that no milk liquid is stored in the milk storage container or the stored milk amount does not reach the empty milk preset value. The non-empty milk condition refers to that milk liquid is stored in the milk storage container or the stored milk amount reaches the empty milk preset value. The specific value of the empty milk preset value can be set as needed, and the present application does not make any limitation. The detection of the empty milk state of the milk storage container is beneficial to the monitoring of the state change from empty milk to milk, facilitating the breast pump to make a prompt or intelligent control based on the state change. The detection of the empty milk state of the milk storage container is also beneficial to identifying the basic interference caused by the capacitance difference due to the process error of the out-of-factory state of the breast pump caused by manufacturing and assembly, thereby improving the milk amount detection or milk fullness detection accuracy.

[0108] The milk fullness state in the state parameter of the milk storage container includes a milk fullness condition and a non-milk fullness condition. The milk fullness condition refers to that the milk amount stored in the milk storage container reaches the milk fullness preset value. The milk fullness preset value can be a condition of completely filling the milk storage container, or a preset threshold value close to the milk fullness state, and more preferably a certain distance from the complete milk fullness to reserve the milk liquid inertia to cause milk overflow phenomenon, or other reasonable threshold value close to the milk fullness. The non-milk fullness condition refers to that the milk amount stored in the milk storage container does not reach the milk fullness preset value. The specific value of the milk fullness preset value can be set as needed, and the present application does not make any limitation.

[0109] The milk state in the state parameter of the milk storage container includes a milk presence condition and a milk absence condition. Optionally, the milk presence condition is that the milk amount reaches a milk presence preset value, and the milk absence condition is that the milk amount does not reach the milk presence preset value. The milk presence preset value can be between the empty milk preset value and the milk full preset value, and is used to accurately determine whether the milk storage container stores milk.

[0110] The unit height milk detection value in the state parameter of the milk storage container can be a detection value of the differential capacitive sensor assembly as the reference sensor, and is used to quantify the interference received by the differential capacitive sensor assembly as the working sensor in the milk storage container, such as interference caused by different dielectric constants of milk of different mothers, human touch interference, basic interference caused by capacitive differences of the breast pump due to process errors in the factory state of manufacturing and assembly, temperature change interference, and the like. Details will be described in subsequent parts of the description, and will not be described here.

[0111] The empty milk state is detected, and the critical state of milk discharge of the mother can be accurately measured, thereby facilitating intelligent milk pumping of the breast pump.

[0112] The milk amount in the milk storage container and the liquid level in the milk storage container are detected, so that the user can know whether the stored milk amount is sufficient.

[0113] The milk full state is detected, so that the milk pumping can be stopped in time to prevent the milk storage container from overflowing.

[0114] The unit height milk detection value is detected, so that the influence of different dielectric constants of milk of different mothers, human touch interference, and process errors of the breast pump due to manufacturing and assembly in the factory state, and the like, on the liquid level or milk amount detection can be reduced or eliminated, and the liquid level or milk amount detection accuracy is improved.

[0115] Optionally, the working sensor is a differential capacitive sensor assembly used to detect the state parameter of any other milk storage container.

[0116] It is worth mentioning that the inductive capacitive sensor in the background art can only output 0, 1 signals, and therefore the inductive capacitive sensor cannot be used to detect the unit height milk detection value.

[0117] Further, in order to detect changes in the state parameter of the milk storage container, the electric field lines of the differential capacitive sensor assembly usually need to at least partially pass through the milk storage space of the milk storage container. More specifically, in order to ensure that the differential capacitive sensor assembly can detect changes in the state parameter of the milk storage container, the distance between the two electrodes of the parallel capacitive group is greater than the distance between the differential capacitive sensor assembly and the inner side of the milk storage container shell.

[0118] As another exception, the differential capacitive sensor assembly can not measure the milk storage container, but determine the state parameter of the milk storage container by measuring other components, for example, in a subsequent embodiment, the empty state of the milk storage container is determined by measuring whether there is milk flowing into the breast shield 10 in the mounting hole 32, which will be described in subsequent parts of the specification, and will not be described here.

[0119] The dielectric constant of a liquid is usually much larger than that of air, for example, the dielectric constant of air is close to 1, the dielectric constant of water is generally 80-81, and the dielectric constant of milk, as a complex biological liquid, mainly includes water, fat, protein, sugar, etc. The dielectric properties of these components are different, but the dielectric constant of milk is much larger than that of air, so when the milk storage space is empty, the dielectric constant

[0120] The present application provides a breast pump, which comprises a milk storage container for storing milk and a differential capacitive sensor assembly for detecting a state parameter of the milk storage container. The milk storage container comprises a milk storage container shell, which comprises an inner side in contact with milk and an outer side not in contact with milk.

[0121] The differential capacitive sensor assembly comprises a detection electrode assembly arranged on or near the outer side, wherein the outer side is used to indicate that the differential capacitive sensor assembly is not located inside the milk storage container.

[0122] The specific structure of different types of breast pumps will be introduced below, and how to set the differential capacitive sensor assembly on the breast pump of this structure to detect the state parameters of different milk storage containers will be described.

[0123] The first type of breast pump will be introduced below.

[0124] As shown in FIG. 1, it is a first perspective view of the first type of breast pump, Figures 4-6 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6

[0125] As shown in FIG. 1, it is a first perspective view of the first type of breast pump, Figures 4 to 6

[0126] ​​​​​​​The breast shield 10 is used to cover the human breast and fit the breast. The breast shield 10 is a flange in a trumpet shape for fitting the breast. The breast shield 10 includes a nipple accommodating portion 22 for accommodating the nipple in the storage container 20.

[0127] The storage container 20 is used to receive and store the breast milk collected by the breast shield 10. The storage container 20 is in communication with the breast shield 10.

[0128] Optionally, the storage container 20 includes a milk cover, a milk bowl, a milk bottle, etc. in the form, which is not limited in the present application.

[0129] The host 30 is further provided with a negative pressure mechanism, which can directly or indirectly apply negative pressure to the breast shield 10 to suck the breast milk into the storage container 20.

[0130] The negative pressure mechanism includes but is not limited to a piezoelectric pump, a diaphragm pump, a hydraulic pump, a mechanical pump, etc.

[0131] Optionally, the host 30 can further include one or more of an energy supply module, a negative pressure gas circuit, a control circuit board, an electromagnetic valve, etc.

[0132] Specifically, the energy supply module can be a storage battery, a dry battery, or directly connected to an external power supply through a power line.

[0133] The host 30 is further provided with a mounting hole 32. The breast shield 10 is arranged in the host through the mounting hole 32 and is in liquid communication with the storage container 20. The breast milk sucked by the breast shield 10 flows into the storage container 20 after flowing into the one-way valve assembly 24.

[0134] The storage container 20 includes a storage container shell 21, a nipple passage 22, a negative pressure cabin 23, a one-way valve assembly 24, a diaphragm cover 25, and an air hole 26.

[0135] The storage container shell 21 includes a first shell 211 and a second shell 212. The second shell 212 is fitted or close to the host 30. The first shell 211 can be integrally formed with the second shell 212 or detachably mounted with the second shell 212. The mounting edges of the first shell 211 and the second shell 212 are provided with sealing rings or other sealing mechanisms to ensure that the milk liquid does not leak from the mounting edges.

[0136] The negative pressure cabin 23 includes a diaphragm (not shown in the figure). The diaphragm cover 25 is fixedly installed on the negative pressure cabin 23 and seals the diaphragm. The diaphragm cover 25 further has the air hole 26 reserved thereon. The host 30 is further provided with a negative pressure socket 34, which is inserted into the air hole 26. Thus, the negative pressure is indirectly applied to the negative pressure cabin 23 through the diaphragm, so that the user produces milk liquid which is collected by the breast shield 10.

[0137] The milk collected by the breast shield 10 enters the milk storage space through the one-way valve assembly 24. The breast pump 1 works in a cycle of milk suction and air intake. When the breast pump 1 works in milk suction, the valve of the one-way valve assembly 24 is closed. When the breast pump 1 works in air intake, the valve of the one-way valve assembly 24 is opened.

[0138] Optionally, the part of the housing of the host 30 that is close to or attached to the milk storage container is the host housing 31. Preferably, the differential capacitor sensor assembly is arranged inside the host housing for better protection of the sensor. In this case, the parallel capacitor group is fixedly arranged on the side of the host housing 31 to be as close to the side of the milk storage container as possible, so as to minimize the distance between the parallel capacitor group and the liquid surface.

[0139] Please refer to Figure 7 , Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a host of a first type of breast pump with a hidden housing provided by the embodiments of the present application.

[0140] Optionally, the host 30 further comprises a component arrangement layer 36 and a sensor arrangement layer 37, and the sensor arrangement layer 37 is arranged between the component arrangement layer 36 and the host housing 31.

[0141] The component arrangement layer 36 is used to arrange the remaining electronic components in the host 30 except the differential capacitor sensor assembly, such as the negative pressure pump, the processing unit, etc. In some cases, the control circuit in the differential capacitor sensor assembly is arranged in the component arrangement layer 36, and the parallel capacitor group is arranged in the sensor arrangement layer 37 and connected to the control circuit in the component arrangement layer 36 through wires.

[0142] Optionally, the sensor arrangement layer 37 has an electric shielding effect, so that the sensor arrangement layer 37 can shield the electronic components on the host from affecting the differential capacitor sensor assembly, thereby improving the detection effect of the differential capacitor sensor assembly.

[0143] In some cases, the sensor arrangement layer 37 is composed of one or more metal materials such as iron, copper, aluminum, silver, etc. to have an electric shielding effect. In other cases, the inner side of the sensor arrangement layer 37 close to the component arrangement layer 36 is coated with a conductive coating to have an electric shielding effect. However, the present application is not limited thereto, and the above cases are only used for illustration.

[0144] In some embodiments, the host 30 comprises a main body 33 extending in the direction of the rising of the liquid surface and a base 34, and the milk storage container 20 is arranged above the base 34. The milk storage container comprises a side wall (not shown in the figure) extending in the direction of the rising of the liquid surface and a bottom wall (not shown in the figure) connected to the side wall. The main body 33 contacts or is close to the side wall, and the base 34 contacts or is close to the bottom wall.

[0145] In some embodiments, the host 30 comprises a main body 33 extending along the direction of the rising of the milk liquid level and a top base 35, the milk storage container 20 is installed below the top base 35 (see Figure 15 ), the milk storage container 20 comprises a side wall (not shown in the figure) extending along the direction of the rising of the milk liquid level and a top wall (not shown in the figure) connected to the side wall; the main body 33 contacts or is close to the side wall, and the top base 35 contacts or is close to the top wall.

[0146] Optionally, when the host 30 comprises the bottom base 34, at least one of the first shell 211 or the second shell 212 is present to fit the bottom base 34 in the host 30, and the parallel capacitor group is arranged in the shell of the milk storage container 20 close to the bottom base 34. Optionally, when the host 30 comprises the top base 35, at least one of the first shell 211 or the second shell 212 fits the top base 35 in the host 30, and the parallel capacitor group is arranged in the shell of the milk storage container 20 close to the top base 35.

[0147] Optionally, when the breast pump 1 comprises the bottom base 34, the sensor arrangement layer 37 extends from the main body 33 to the bottom base 34. Optionally, when the breast pump 1 comprises the top base 35, the sensor arrangement layer 37 extends from the main body 33 to the top base 35.

[0148] Optionally, when the breast pump 1 comprises the bottom base 34, the host shell 31 extends from the main body 33 to the bottom base 34. Optionally, when the breast pump 1 comprises the top base 35, the host shell 31 extends from the main body 33 to the top base 35.

[0149] The optional arrangement areas of the differential capacitor sensor assembly are introduced as follows. The following listed optional arrangement areas do not limit the functions of the differential capacitor sensor assembly, for example, the differential capacitor sensor assembly for detecting the milk amount in the milk storage container or the liquid level in the milk storage container or the empty milk state or the full milk state or the milk detection value per unit height can be arranged in the following optional arrangement areas.

[0150] In some embodiments, the differential capacitor sensor assembly is arranged on the outer side of the milk storage container shell not in contact with the milk liquid. In other embodiments, the differential capacitor sensor assembly is arranged close to the outer side.

[0151] As an example, in the first type of breast pump 1, the arrangement areas of the differential capacitor sensor assembly can include but are not limited to:

[0152] 1. The outer side of the second shell 212 not in contact with the milk liquid.

[0153] 2. The outer side of the first shell 211 not in contact with the milk liquid.

[0154] 3. The host shell 31 in the host 30 close to the outer side of the milk storage container 20 or away from the inner side of the milk storage container 20.

[0155] 4、The sensor setting layer 37 is arranged close to the outer side of the milk storage container 20 or away from the inner side of the milk storage container 20. Preferably, if the sensor setting layer 37 has an electric shielding effect, it is arranged close to the outer side of the milk storage container 20.

[0156] It can be understood that when the structure of the breast pump changes, the optional setting area will also change accordingly, and the above-mentioned optional setting areas should not be understood as a limitation of the embodiments of the present application.

[0157] In some cases, two or more parallel capacitor groups are arranged in different setting areas. For example, a first parallel capacitor group for detecting the liquid level is arranged on the outer side of the second shell 212 which does not contact the milk liquid, and a second parallel capacitor group for detecting the liquid level is arranged on the outer side of the first shell 211 which does not contact the milk liquid. In other cases, two or more parallel capacitor groups are arranged in the same setting area, thereby facilitating wiring and layout.

[0158] In some cases, the differential capacitor sensor assembly further comprises a wireless communication module, and the differential capacitor sensor assembly transmits the detection data to the processing unit remotely through the wireless communication module. In other cases, the differential capacitor sensor assembly is connected to the processing unit through a connecting line, and the transmission of the detection data is performed through the connecting line.

[0159] Before the specific description of the scheme of the present application through the embodiments, it needs to be explained that only the specific setting mode of the parallel capacitor group in the differential capacitor sensor assembly is shown in all subsequent drawings of the present application, and the control circuit is not shown. However, this does not mean that the differential capacitor sensor assembly does not need a control circuit, nor does it mean that the control circuit is not set in the drawings of the present application. The drawings of the present application are only examples and should not constitute any limitation on the embodiments of the present application.

[0160] And the description of the setting mode and the setting position of the differential capacitor sensor assembly set on the top of the milk storage container or the bottom of the milk storage container and the like in the subsequent content of the present application are all for the parallel capacitor group in the differential capacitor sensor assembly, and should not be understood as a limitation on the setting position of the control circuit.

[0161] It also needs to be explained that when the bottom and the top of the milk storage container are described in the subsequent embodiments of the present application, the bottom and the top described are in the direction of the rising of the milk liquid surface, and the milk liquid stored in the milk storage container rises from the bottom of the milk storage container to the top of the milk storage container along the direction of the rising of the milk liquid surface.

[0162] The setting mode of the differential capacitor sensor assembly for measuring the liquid level or the milk volume is introduced below.

[0163] The differential capacitance sensor assembly is arranged in the setting area along the rising direction of the milk liquid surface in the milk storage container when measuring the liquid level or the milk volume.

[0164] For example, the parallel capacitor group in the differential capacitance sensor assembly includes a first electrode and a second electrode, the first electrode includes a first end and a second end, the second end is below the first end in the rising direction of the milk liquid surface, and the second electrode includes a third end and a fourth end, the fourth end is below the third end in the rising direction of the milk liquid surface.

[0165] The arrangement of the differential capacitance sensor assembly along the rising direction of the milk liquid surface in the milk storage container means that the direction in which the second end points to the first end is the same as the rising direction of the milk liquid surface or the included angle between the direction in which the second end points to the first end and the rising direction of the milk liquid surface is less than a preset angle, and the direction in which the fourth end points to the third end is the same as the rising direction of the milk liquid surface or the included angle between the direction in which the fourth end points to the third end and the rising direction of the milk liquid surface is less than a preset angle.

[0166] It should be noted that the value of the preset angle is affected by various factors such as the capacitance specification and the breast pump structure, and needs to be selected according to the actual situation, but in general, the included angle between the direction in which the lower end points to the upper end and the rising direction of the milk liquid surface is less than 90°.

[0167] In a possible implementation, the first electrode and the second electrode are in a straight line shape, thereby facilitating production and manufacturing. In another possible implementation, the first electrode and the second electrode are in a curved shape or even an irregular shape, thereby adapting to more complex installation spaces. The present application does not make any limitation.

[0168] In addition, the range of the liquid level that can be measured by the differential capacitance sensor assembly is determined by the lowest point and the highest point of the first electrode and the second electrode in the rising direction of the milk liquid surface. For example, if the milk liquid in the milk storage container rises up to 10 cm in the rising direction of the milk liquid surface, and the lowest point of the first electrode and the second electrode is set at 1 cm and the highest point of the first electrode and the second electrode is set at 8 cm, then the range of the liquid level that can be detected by the differential capacitance sensor assembly is approximately 1 cm to 8 cm.

[0169] Therefore, when it is necessary to increase the range of the differential capacitance sensor assembly, the length of the differential capacitance sensor assembly in the rising direction of the milk liquid surface can be increased. For example, when it is desired to measure the complete liquid level range, in the rising direction of the milk liquid surface, the lowest point of the first electrode and the second electrode can be set at or below the bottom of the milk storage space, and the highest point of the first electrode and the second electrode can be set at or above the top of the milk storage space.

[0170] Optionally, the milk level rising direction is a milk level rising direction when the breast pump is correctly worn on the breast of the user. Optionally, the milk level rising direction is a milk level rising direction when the breast pump is placed stably.

[0171] The arrangement of the differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring the liquid level or milk volume will be described in detail below with reference to embodiments.

[0172] In some embodiments, the differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring the liquid level or milk volume is arranged in the main machine housing 31 of the main machine 30, please refer to Figures 8 to 12 , Figures 8 to 12 Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of different arrangements of the differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring the liquid level or milk volume on the main machine housing provided by the embodiments of the present application.

[0173] Figures 8 to 12 The milk level rising direction when the breast pump is correctly worn is schematically shown by the dotted line in the X direction in the figure in the main machine housing in the subsequent drawings.

[0174] Figures 8 to 12 The differential capacitive sensor assembly in Fig. 1 can be understood as being arranged on the outer side of the main machine housing 31, or on the inner side of the main machine housing 31.

[0175] In a possible implementation, as shown in Figure 8 Fig. 2, the first electrode 411A and the second electrode 412A of the differential capacitive sensor assembly 41A are arranged on the two sides of the mounting hole 32 respectively, and the arrangement direction of the differential capacitive sensor assembly 41A is the same as the milk level rising direction.

[0176] In another possible implementation, as shown in Figure 9 Fig. 3, the first electrode 411B and the second electrode 412B of the differential capacitive sensor assembly 41B are arranged on the two sides of the mounting hole 32 respectively, and the arrangement direction of the differential capacitive sensor assembly 41B has a certain angle with the milk level rising direction. Optionally, the first electrode and the second electrode can also be curved and extend in parallel.

[0177] In yet another possible implementation, as shown in Figure 10 Fig. 4, the first electrode 411C and the second electrode 412C of the differential capacitive sensor assembly 41C are arranged on the same side of the mounting hole 32.

[0178] In yet another possible implementation, as shown in Figure 11As shown, the differential capacitive sensor assembly includes differential capacitive sensor assembly 41D and differential capacitive sensor assembly 41E, so that the detection value of differential capacitive sensor assembly 41D and the detection value of differential capacitive sensor assembly 41E can be obtained respectively, and then the measurement accuracy can be improved by taking the average value or the like, and when one differential capacitive sensor assembly fails, the other can still work normally, thereby improving the durability of the breast pump.

[0179] In yet another possible implementation, as shown in Figure 12 , the differential capacitive sensor assembly includes differential capacitive sensor assembly 41F and differential capacitive sensor assembly 41G, which are respectively used to detect different ranges of liquid level. For example, differential capacitive sensor assembly 41G is used to detect the liquid level in the range of 0-5 cm, and differential capacitive sensor assembly 41F is used to detect the liquid level in the range of 5-10 cm. Each differential capacitive sensor assembly is responsible for a different range of liquid level detection, which can improve the detection accuracy of the liquid level.

[0180] It can be understood that, Figures 8 to 12 The arrangement mode in the above is not limited to the main machine shell 31, but can also be applied to the remaining arrangement areas, such as the outer side of the first shell 211, the outer side of the second shell 212, or the sensor arrangement layer 37.

[0181] In other embodiments, the differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring the liquid level or the milk amount is arranged in the sensor arrangement layer 37 of the main machine 30. Please refer to Figures 13 to 15 , Figures 13 to 15 are the first to third arrangement schematic diagrams of the differential capacitive sensor assembly in the sensor arrangement layer provided by the embodiments of the present application.

[0182] Figures 13 to 15 The differential capacitive sensor assembly 41 for measuring the liquid level or the milk amount includes electrodes 411 and 412, and is arranged in the outer side of the sensor arrangement layer 37 of the main machine 30 away from the component arrangement layer 36, and along the rising direction X of the milk liquid level.

[0183] It should be noted that, Figures 13 to 15 More differential capacitive sensor assemblies can be arranged in the above to detect more ranges of liquid level or milk amount, or the length of the differential capacitive sensor assembly 41 in the direction of the milk liquid can be increased to increase the range of liquid level or milk amount, for example, the differential capacitive sensor assembly 41 can extend in a curved form like the sensor arrangement layer 37, thereby increasing the range of liquid level or milk amount, Figures 13 to 15The setting mode is only illustrative and should not be understood as any limitation to the embodiments of the present application.

[0184] As Figures 8 to 15 The differential capacitance sensor assembly shown in any of the implementation modes can measure the change of liquid level according to the change of capacitance value, so when the milk liquid wall-hanging phenomenon occurs, compared with the capacitance change amount caused by the overall liquid level rise of the differential capacitance sensor assembly, the influence of the milk liquid wall-hanging phenomenon on the capacitance value change amount of the differential capacitance sensor assembly is small, so the differential capacitance sensor assembly will not incorrectly determine the position of the wall-hanging milk liquid as the current liquid level as the inductive capacitance sensor, because it measures the total amount of capacitance value corresponding to the milk liquid in the entire measurement range, thereby solving the technical problem of detection error caused by the milk liquid wall-hanging in the prior art.

[0185] The setting mode of the differential capacitance sensor assembly for measuring the empty milk state will be introduced below.

[0186] In some embodiments, the differential capacitance sensor assembly for measuring the empty milk state is arranged in the setting area close to the bottom of the milk storage container 20, so as to determine whether the milk storage container 20 is in the empty milk state or the non-empty milk state by detecting whether there is milk liquid at the bottom of the milk storage container 20. In another embodiment, the differential capacitance sensor assembly for measuring the empty milk state is arranged in the setting area close to the mounting hole 32, because the breast shield 10 is arranged in the main machine through the mounting hole 32, so the inside of the mounting hole 32 is the inside of the breast shield 10, and thus whether the milk storage container 20 is in the empty milk state or the non-empty milk state can be determined by judging whether there is milk liquid flowing through the breast shield 10.

[0187] Preferably, if the milk liquid in the breast pump flows into the milk storage container through the milk inlet, the differential capacitance sensor assembly for measuring the empty milk state is at least partially arranged below the milk inlet in the direction in which the milk liquid level rises, because the position below the milk inlet is the fastest position to detect whether the milk liquid enters the milk storage container, and thus the at least partial arrangement below the milk inlet can detect whether the milk storage container changes from the empty milk state to the non-empty milk state the fastest. In some cases, if the breast pump has a one-way valve, the milk inlet can be the valve of the one-way valve.

[0188] The setting mode of the differential capacitance sensor assembly for measuring the empty milk state will be described in detail below in combination with embodiments.

[0189] In some embodiments, the differential capacitance sensor assembly for measuring the empty milk state is arranged in the sensor setting layer 37 of the breast pump 1.

[0190] In a possible implementation mode, please refer to Figure 14 , Figure 14The differential capacitance sensor assembly 42B for measuring the empty milk state includes first electrodes 421B and 422B.

[0191] In one description, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 42B is arranged on the main body 33 of the main machine 30 at a position close to the bottom of the milk storage container 20, specifically in the sensor arrangement layer 37 in the main body 33 at a position close to the bottom of the milk storage container 20, for detecting whether there is milk at the bottom of the milk storage container 20 to determine whether the milk storage container 20 is in the empty milk state or the non-empty milk state. In another description, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 42B is arranged on the side of the mounting hole 32 close to the bottom of the milk storage container 20, specifically in the sensor arrangement layer 37 in the side of the mounting hole 32 close to the bottom of the milk storage container 20.

[0192] In another possible implementation, please refer to Figure 13 and Figure 15 , Figure 13 and Figure 15 The differential capacitance sensor assembly 42A for measuring the empty milk state includes first electrodes 421A and 422A. The differential capacitance sensor assembly 42A is arranged in the base 34 of the main machine 30. Specifically, in the sensor arrangement layer 37 in the base 34, for detecting whether there is milk at the bottom of the milk storage container 20 to determine whether the milk storage container 20 is in the empty milk state or the non-empty milk state. Preferably, 42A is arranged below the position corresponding to the one-way valve, so that as soon as milk flows out of the one-way valve, 42A can immediately detect the situation of milk flowing out, so that a signal can be fed back to the control circuit to facilitate subsequent mode switching or starting of the negative pressure system and other control operations.

[0193] In yet another possible implementation, please refer to Figure 16 , Figure 16 is a supplementary schematic diagram of the differential capacitance sensor assembly for measuring the empty milk state provided by the embodiments of the present application. As shown in Figure 16 , Figure 16 The differential capacitance sensor assembly 53 for measuring the empty milk state includes electrodes 531 and 532. The differential capacitance sensor assembly 53 is arranged in the main body 33 of the main machine 30 at a position close to the mounting hole 32. Specifically, in the sensor arrangement layer 37 in the main body 33 at a position close to the mounting hole 32, for detecting whether milk flows into the milk storage container 20 to determine whether the milk storage container 20 is in the empty milk state or the non-empty milk state.

[0194] It should be noted that the differential capacitance sensor assemblies in the above-mentioned figures are all arranged in the sensor arrangement layer 37, but this should not be understood as a limitation of the present application, and in other embodiments, the differential capacitance sensor assemblies can also be arranged in the remaining arrangement areas in the same or similar manner.

[0195] The differential capacitance sensor assemblies are used to detect the empty milk state of the milk storage container, and no contact with milk is required during the detection process, which is highly practical.

[0196] The arrangement of the differential capacitance sensor assemblies for measuring the full milk state will be described below.

[0197] In some embodiments, the differential capacitance sensor assemblies for measuring the full milk state are arranged near the top of the milk storage container 20 in the arrangement area, so as to determine whether the milk storage container 20 is in the full milk state or not by detecting whether there is milk at the top of the milk storage container 20. It should be noted that the full milk state described herein can be a state in which the milk completely fills the container, but more preferably, it is not completely full but close to a preset position close to the full milk state, so as to prevent the problem of milk overflow caused by milk inertia.

[0198] The arrangement of the differential capacitance sensor assemblies for measuring the full milk state will be described below.

[0199] In some embodiments, the differential capacitance sensor assemblies for measuring the full milk state are arranged in the sensor arrangement layer 37 of the breast pump 1.

[0200] In a possible implementation, please refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 , Figure 13 and Figure 14 include a differential capacitance sensor assembly 43 for measuring the full milk state, and the differential capacitance sensor assembly 43 includes an electrode 431 and an electrode 432.

[0201] In one description, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 43 is arranged near the top of the milk storage container 20 on the main body 33 of the main machine 30. Specifically, it is arranged near the top of the milk storage container 20 in the sensor arrangement layer 37 in the main body 33, and is used to detect whether there is milk at the top of the milk storage container 20 to determine whether the milk storage container 20 is in the full milk state or not. In another description, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 43 is arranged near the top of the milk storage container 20 on one side of the mounting hole 32, specifically in the sensor arrangement layer 37 in the side of the mounting hole 32 near the top of the milk storage container 20.

[0202] In another possible implementation, please refer to Figure 15 , Figure 15The differential capacitance sensor assembly 44 for measuring the milk full state includes an electrode 441 and an electrode 442. The differential capacitance sensor assembly 44 is arranged in the top seat 35 of the main machine 30 to detect whether there is milk on the top of the milk storage container 20 to determine whether the milk storage container 20 is milk full or not milk full.

[0203] In some cases, as shown in FIG. 1, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 44 is arranged on the upper side of the sensor arrangement layer 37 in the top seat 35. In other cases, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 44 is arranged on the lower side of the sensor arrangement layer 37 in the top seat 35. The actual arrangement can be selected as needed, and the present application is not limited in this regard. Figure 15

[0204] It should be noted that the differential capacitance sensor assemblies in the above figures are all arranged in the sensor arrangement layer 37, but this should not be construed as a limitation of the present application. In other embodiments, the differential capacitance sensor assemblies can also be arranged in other arrangement areas in the same or similar manner.

[0205] The differential capacitance sensor assembly detects the milk full state of the milk storage container and is not easily affected by milk wall hanging, liquid level fluctuations, and the like, and has high detection accuracy.

[0206] The arrangement of the differential capacitance sensor assembly for measuring the milk level detection value per unit height is described below.

[0207] As an example, the capacitance value of a capacitance sensor is proportional to the dielectric constant of the medium, and the dielectric constant can change with temperature. Therefore, when the ambient temperature changes, the capacitance value of the sensor will also change accordingly, resulting in measurement errors.

[0208] As another example, when a human body approaches or contacts a capacitance sensor, the human body itself can be considered a conductor and has a certain dielectric constant. The presence of the human body changes the space dielectric properties around the capacitance sensor, causing the actual dielectric constant to change. At the same time, the human body can also increase the effective plate area of the sensor or reduce the equivalent plate distance, thereby changing the detection value of the capacitance sensor.

[0209] ​As another example, because the dielectric constant of each mother's milk is different, when mother A uses a breast pump, the liquid level of the milk in the breast pump rises 1 cm, and the detection value of the differential capacitive sensor assembly changes by 1 unit of capacitance value. However, when mother B uses the same breast pump, if the dielectric constant of mother B's milk is greater than that of mother A's milk, then if the liquid level of the milk in the breast pump rises 1 cm, the detection value of the differential capacitive sensor assembly changes by 1.1 units of capacitance value. Now, the breast pump generally calculates the milk volume according to a preset mapping relationship according to the detection value, so if the preset mapping relationship is that a change of 1 unit of capacitance value corresponds to a change of 1 cm in the liquid level, then for mother B, the liquid level measured by the breast pump will always be higher than the actual height.

[0210] Therefore, it is necessary to detect the unit height milk detection value, so as to exclude the interference of the above-mentioned interference factors on the milk volume or liquid level measurement.

[0211] Therefore, in order to ensure the detection accuracy, it is necessary to detect the unit height milk detection value.

[0212] In some embodiments, the differential capacitive sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value is arranged at a position close to the bottom of the milk storage container 20 in the arrangement area.

[0213] In other embodiments, the differential capacitive sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value is arranged at a position close to the top of the milk storage container 20 in the arrangement area.

[0214] In this case, when the liquid level is not within the detection range of the differential capacitive sensor assembly, the differential capacitive sensor assembly is almost not affected by the change in the liquid level, and at this time the detection value of the differential capacitive sensor assembly can be used as the unit height milk detection value. Therefore, the differential capacitive sensor assembly arranged at a position close to the bottom of the milk storage container 20 in the arrangement area can play the function of detecting the unit height milk detection value faster than when arranged at other positions.

[0215] However, if the differential capacitive sensor assembly arranged at a position close to the bottom of the milk storage container 20 and the differential capacitive sensor assembly arranged at a position close to the top of the milk storage container 20 are arranged in the arrangement area at the same time, the differential capacitive sensor assembly arranged at a position close to the top of the milk storage container 20 can perform mutual verification of the unit height milk detection value with the differential capacitive sensor assembly arranged at a position close to the bottom of the milk storage container 20, thereby improving the detection accuracy.

[0216] Further, the differential capacitive sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value in the present application can also be arranged at a position close to the middle of the milk storage container in the detection area, and the differential capacitive sensor assembly arranged at a position close to the middle of the milk storage container can still be used to detect the unit height milk detection value.

[0217] Further, it can be seen that the differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring the unit height milk detection value is arranged in the same way as some arrangements of the differential capacitive sensor assembly for detecting the empty milk state and the full milk state. Therefore, in some cases, the empty milk state and the unit height milk detection value can be detected simultaneously by one differential capacitive sensor assembly in the present application. In other cases, the full milk state and the unit height milk detection value can be detected simultaneously by one differential capacitive sensor assembly in the present application.

[0218] Please refer to Figure 17 , Figure 17 is the detection principle diagram of the differential capacitive sensor assembly for simultaneously detecting the empty milk state and the unit height milk detection value provided by the present application. Hereinafter, the reference sensor is defined for detecting the unit height milk detection value.

[0219] As shown in Figure 13 and Figure 17 , the second differential capacitive sensor assembly 42A includes a first electrode 421A and a second electrode 422A, and the liquid level detection range of the second differential capacitive sensor assembly 42A only covers part of the area at the bottom of the milk storage space.

[0220] Therefore, when there is no milk in the milk storage space, as the milk enters, the detection value of the differential capacitive sensor assembly 42A will change, but once the liquid level is higher than the maximum height of the liquid level detection range, the change of the liquid level cannot cause the detection value of the differential capacitive sensor assembly 42A to change significantly. It can be considered that when the liquid level is higher than the liquid level detection range of the differential capacitive sensor assembly 42A, the change of the liquid level cannot affect the capacitance value of the differential capacitive sensor assembly 42A.

[0221] Further, because the liquid level detection range that can be detected by the differential capacitive sensor assembly 42A is known, when the liquid level is higher than the liquid level detection range of the differential capacitive sensor assembly 42A, the unit height milk detection value can be obtained by dividing the detection value by the size of the liquid level detection range, for example, the liquid level detection range is 0-0.5 cm, and the detection value is 3 mF, then the unit height milk detection value = 3 mF / 0.5 cm = 6 mF / cm.

[0222] As a further example, if the working sensor and the reference sensor detect the same liquid with the same dielectric constant at the same height, the detection values are the same,

[0223] Therefore, as long as the working sensor (for example, the working sensor is the differential capacitive sensor assembly 42A) is calibrated in advance, Figure 13The differential capacitance sensor assembly 41 for detecting milk volume or liquid level and the reference sensor detect the same liquid with the same dielectric constant at the same height, and the detection value of the reference sensor can be used to calibrate the detection value of the working sensor, so as to eliminate the interference in the milk volume or liquid level measurement, such as the difference in dielectric constant of the mother's milk, the factory error and the like, and improve the measurement accuracy.

[0224] It can be understood that the working sensor is not limited to the differential capacitance sensor assembly 41 for detecting milk volume or liquid level, and any sensor that can be interfered with the reference sensor can be the working sensor.

[0225] It can be understood that when the liquid level changes in the liquid level detection range of the differential capacitance sensor assembly 42A of the reference sensor, such as Figure 17 , at this time, because of the uncertainty of the dielectric constant, the unit height milk detection value cannot be determined according to the detection value of the differential capacitance sensor assembly, and the liquid level needs to be raised to be higher than or equal to the liquid level detection range.

[0226] Therefore, the differential capacitance sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value sets a smaller detectable liquid level detection range.

[0227] Further, the liquid level detection range of the differential capacitance sensor assembly 42A can be adjusted by adjusting the distance between the first electrode 421A and the second electrode 422A, or the distance between the first electrode 421A and the second electrode 422A and the bottom of the milk storage container 20.

[0228] The setting mode of the differential capacitance sensor assembly for measuring the unit height milk detection value will be described in detail below with reference to the embodiments.

[0229] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 14 , the differential capacitance sensor assembly for measuring the unit height milk detection value is the differential capacitance sensor assembly 42B, which is arranged at the position of the main body 33 close to the bottom of the milk storage container 20. The electric field lines of the differential capacitance sensor assembly 42B penetrate the bottom of the milk storage container, and the differential capacitance sensor assembly 42B is used for detecting the empty milk state and the unit height milk detection value.

[0230] In other embodiments, as shown in Figure 13 and Figure 14As shown in FIG. 1, the differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring the unit height milk detection value is differential capacitive sensor assembly 43, which is arranged at the position of main body 33 close to the top of milk storage container 20. The electric field lines of differential capacitive sensor assembly 43 penetrate the top of milk storage container 20, and differential capacitive sensor assembly 43 can be used to detect both the full milk state and the unit height milk detection value.

[0231] As shown in FIG. 1, the differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring the unit height milk detection value is differential capacitive sensor assembly 43, which is arranged at the position of main body 33 close to the top of milk storage container 20. The electric field lines of differential capacitive sensor assembly 43 penetrate the top of milk storage container 20, and differential capacitive sensor assembly 43 can be used to detect both the full milk state and the unit height milk detection value. Figure 13 Figure 15 As shown in FIG. 1, the differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring the unit height milk detection value is differential capacitive sensor assembly 43, which is arranged at the position of main body 33 close to the top of milk storage container 20. The electric field lines of differential capacitive sensor assembly 43 penetrate the top of milk storage container 20, and differential capacitive sensor assembly 43 can be used to detect both the full milk state and the unit height milk detection value.

[0232] As shown in FIG. 1, the differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring the unit height milk detection value is differential capacitive sensor assembly 43, which is arranged at the position of main body 33 close to the top of milk storage container 20. The electric field lines of differential capacitive sensor assembly 43 penetrate the top of milk storage container 20, and differential capacitive sensor assembly 43 can be used to detect both the full milk state and the unit height milk detection value. Figure 13 Figure 15 As shown in FIG. 1, the differential capacitive sensor assembly for measuring the unit height milk detection value is differential capacitive sensor assembly 43, which is arranged at the position of main body 33 close to the top of milk storage container 20. The electric field lines of differential capacitive sensor assembly 43 penetrate the top of milk storage container 20, and differential capacitive sensor assembly 43 can be used to detect both the full milk state and the unit height milk detection value.

[0233] The conventional inductive capacitive sensor is susceptible to external interference, and a common situation is that the mother's hand touches the breast pump during milk extraction, causing a change in capacitance and resulting in the inductive capacitive sensor incorrectly outputting a high-level signal. The differential capacitive sensor assembly in the present application can be used to detect the unit height milk detection value and calibrate the detection value of the working sensor, thereby increasing the detection accuracy, preventing false judgments caused by various interferences to a large extent, and making the capacitive sensing method more practical in breast pumps.

[0234] The above introduces the arrangement area, arrangement method, and embodiments of differential capacitive sensor assemblies with different functions. The following will introduce the combined arrangement method of multiple differential capacitive sensor assemblies for detecting different state parameters.

[0235] ​​Optionally, the breast pump comprises at least one of a differential capacitance sensor assembly for detecting the amount of milk in the milk storage container, a differential capacitance sensor assembly for detecting the liquid level in the milk storage container, a differential capacitance sensor assembly for detecting the empty milk state, a differential capacitance sensor assembly for detecting the full milk state, and a capacitance sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk liquid detection value, and the number of each differential capacitance sensor assembly is at least one.

[0236] The combination arrangement of the plurality of differential capacitance sensor assemblies for detecting different state parameters will be described in detail below with reference to embodiments. Please refer to Figures 18 to 22 , Figures 18 to 22 is a different combination arrangement of the plurality of differential capacitance sensor assemblies provided by the embodiments of the present application.

[0237] Figure 18 and Figure 22 are all exemplified by taking the setting area as the main machine shell 31, but the present application is not limited thereto. In some cases, the same arrangement can be arranged in different setting areas. In other cases, the plurality of differential capacitance sensor assemblies are arranged in different setting areas respectively, but only after all the differential capacitance sensor assemblies are projected to the main machine shell 31, the combination arrangement shown in Figures 18 to 22 is presented. Therefore, the embodiments shown in Figures 18 to 22 should not be understood as limiting the differential capacitance sensor assemblies to be arranged in the main machine shell 31 by the present application.

[0238] Figures 18 to 22 In , the main machine shell 31 is divided into three areas along the rising direction of the milk liquid level, which are the bottom area C, the middle area B and the top area A. The above division method can be applied to the remaining setting areas.

[0239] In some cases, the maximum height of the bottom area C is less than or equal to a preset percentage multiplied by the maximum liquid level height, and the minimum height of the top area A is greater than or equal to a preset percentage multiplied by the maximum liquid level height. As an example, the preset percentage can be 30%, 25%, etc., which is not limited by the present application.

[0240] In other cases, the maximum height of the bottom area C is less than or equal to a first preset height, and the minimum height of the top area A is greater than or equal to a second preset height. As an example, the first preset height and the second preset height can both be 5 cm, 6 cm, etc., which is not limited by the present application.

[0241] As an alternative, the detection electrode assembly of the differential capacitive sensor assembly for detecting the full milk state is arranged in the top region A. As another alternative, the detection electrode assembly of the differential capacitive sensor assembly for detecting the empty milk state is arranged in the bottom region C. As yet another alternative, the detection electrode assembly of the differential capacitive sensor assembly for detecting the milk amount or the liquid level range is arranged in at least two regions of the bottom region C, the top region A and the middle region B. As still another alternative, the detection electrode assembly of the differential capacitive sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk liquid detection value is arranged in one of the bottom region C, the top region A and the middle region B.

[0242] In one possible implementation, as shown in Figure 18 Figure 18 includes: the differential capacitive sensor assembly 45A, the differential capacitive sensor assembly 46A, the differential capacitive sensor assembly 47A. The differential capacitive sensor assembly 45A includes the electrode 451A and the electrode 452A, the differential capacitive sensor assembly 46A includes the electrode 461A and the electrode 462A, and the differential capacitive sensor assembly 47A includes the electrode 471A and the electrode 472A.

[0243] The differential capacitive sensor assembly 45A is used for detecting the liquid level or the milk amount. Alternatively, the differential capacitive sensor assembly 45A is also used for detecting the empty milk state. Alternatively, the differential capacitive sensor assembly 45A is also used for detecting the full milk state.

[0244] The differential capacitive sensor assembly 46A is used for detecting at least one of the unit height milk liquid detection value and the empty milk state.

[0245] The differential capacitive sensor assembly 47A is used for detecting at least one of the unit height milk liquid detection value and the full milk state.

[0246] Defining the milk liquid level rising direction as the vertical direction, in the horizontal direction, Figure 18 The electrode 461A and the electrode 462A are arranged between the electrode 451A and the electrode 452A. The electrode 471A and the electrode 472A are arranged between the electrode 451A and the electrode 452A. At this time, the differential capacitive sensor assembly 45A can completely detect the liquid level change from the empty milk to the full milk.

[0247] ​And when the breast pump changes from an empty milk state to a full milk state, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 45A and the differential capacitance sensor assembly 46A simultaneously detect the capacitance change, and there are two differential capacitance sensor assemblies to detect the empty milk state. Similarly, when the breast pump changes from a non-full milk state to a full milk state, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 45A and the differential capacitance sensor assembly 47A simultaneously detect the capacitance change, and there are two differential capacitance sensor assemblies to detect the full milk state. This can improve the accuracy of the empty milk or full milk detection.

[0248] In another possible implementation, Figure 19 As shown, Figure 19 The device includes a differential capacitance sensor assembly 45B, a differential capacitance sensor assembly 46B, and a differential capacitance sensor assembly 47B. Differential capacitance sensor assembly 45B includes electrodes 451B and 452B, differential capacitance sensor assembly 46B includes electrodes 461B and 462B, and differential capacitance sensor assembly 47B includes electrodes 471B and 472B.

[0249] The differential capacitance sensor assembly 45B is used to detect the liquid level or milk volume.

[0250] The differential capacitance sensor assembly 46B is used to detect at least one of a unit height milk detection value and an empty milk state.

[0251] The differential capacitance sensor assembly 47B is used to detect at least one of a unit height milk detection value and a milk full state.

[0252] In the direction of rising milk level, Figure 19 The middle electrode 451B is disposed between the electrode 461B and the electrode 471B, and the electrode 452B is disposed between the electrode 462B and the electrode 472B.

[0253] Figure 19 In the arrangement, the structural design among the differential capacitance sensor assembly 45B, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 46B and the differential capacitance sensor assembly 47B is more compact, and less setting space can be reserved in the breast pump, which is beneficial to the structural design.

[0254] In another possible implementation, Figure 20 As shown, Figure 20 The device includes differential capacitance sensor assembly 48A, differential capacitance sensor assembly 49A, and differential capacitance sensor assembly 47C. Differential capacitance sensor assembly 48A includes electrodes 481A and 482A, differential capacitance sensor assembly 49A includes electrodes 491A and 492A, and differential capacitance sensor assembly 47C includes electrodes 471C and 472C.

[0255] The differential capacitance sensor assembly 48A is used to detect the liquid level or milk volume. Optionally, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 48A is also used to detect the milk full state.

[0256] The differential capacitance sensor assembly 49A is used to detect the liquid level or milk volume. Optionally, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 49A is also used to detect the empty milk state.

[0257] The differential capacitance sensor assembly 47C is used to detect at least one of the unit height milk liquid detection value and the milk full state.

[0258] Figure 20 In the above-mentioned implementation manner, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 48A and the differential capacitance sensor assembly 49A are used to detect the entire liquid level change, and the detection precision is better than that of using a single differential capacitance sensor assembly to detect the entire liquid level change, so that the detection precision can be improved. In addition, the differential capacitance sensor assembly for detecting the empty milk is no longer arranged separately, and the differential capacitance sensor assembly 49A is used to detect the empty milk state, so that the arrangement space is saved.

[0259] In another possible implementation manner, as shown in Figure 21 , the differential capacitance sensor assembly 48B, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 49B, and the differential capacitance sensor assembly 47D are arranged in the milk suction device. Figure 21 The differential capacitance sensor assembly 48B includes an electrode 481B and an electrode 482B, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 49B includes an electrode 491B and an electrode 492B, and the differential capacitance sensor assembly 47D includes an electrode 471D and an electrode 472D.

[0260] The differential capacitance sensor assembly 48B is used to detect the liquid level or milk volume. Optionally, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 48B is also used to detect the milk full state.

[0261] The differential capacitance sensor assembly 49B is used to detect the liquid level or milk volume. Optionally, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 49B is also used to detect the empty milk state.

[0262] The differential capacitance sensor assembly 47D is used to detect at least one of the unit height milk liquid detection value and the milk full state.

[0263] Figure 21 In the above-mentioned arrangement manner, the structure design among the differential capacitance sensor assembly 48B, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 49B, and the differential capacitance sensor assembly 47D is more compact, and less arrangement space can be reserved in the breast pump, which is beneficial to the structure design.

[0264] In another possible implementation manner, as shown in Figure 22 , the differential capacitance sensor assembly 48B, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 49B, and the differential capacitance sensor assembly 47D are arranged in the milk suction device. Figure 22The device includes differential capacitance sensor assembly 48C, differential capacitance sensor assembly 49C, differential capacitance sensor assembly 47E, and differential capacitance sensor assembly 46C. Differential capacitance sensor assembly 48C includes electrodes 481C and 482C, differential capacitance sensor assembly 49C includes electrodes 491C and 492C, differential capacitance sensor assembly 47E includes electrodes 471E and 472E, and differential capacitance sensor assembly 46C includes electrodes 461C and 462C.

[0265] The differential capacitance sensor assembly 48C is used to detect the liquid level or the amount of milk. Optionally, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 48C is also used to detect a full milk state.

[0266] The differential capacitance sensor assembly 49C is used to detect the liquid level or the milk volume. Optionally, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 49C is also used to detect the empty milk state.

[0267] The differential capacitance sensor assembly 47E is used to detect a unit height milk detection value and / or a milk full state.

[0268] The differential capacitance sensor assembly 46C is used to detect a unit height milk detection value and / or an empty milk state.

[0269] Figure 22 In the configuration, each milk storage container's status parameters are detected by two differential capacitive sensor components, ensuring detection accuracy. The compact design facilitates structural design.

[0270] It is understandable that the above-mentioned setting method is only used for illustration, and the present application is not limited to the setting method in the above-mentioned implementation method, and the above-mentioned embodiment should not be understood as a limitation on the present application.

[0271] The second type of breast pump is described below.

[0272] See also Figure 23 , Figure 23 This is a first stereoscopic view of the second type of breast pump provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 24 This is a first exploded view of the second type of breast pump provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0273] like Figure 23 and Figure 24 As shown, the second breast pump 100 includes a breast shield 110 , a milk storage container 120 and a main unit 130 .

[0274] The breast shield 110 is used to cover the human breast and fit closely to the breast. The breast shield 110 includes a trumpet-shaped flange for fitting closely to the breast and a nipple receiving portion for accommodating the nipple.

[0275] The milk storage container 120 is used to receive and store the breast milk collected by the breast shield 110, and is in communication with the breast shield 110.

[0276] Optionally, the milk storage container 120 includes a milk bowl, a milk bottle or the like, which is not limited in the present application.

[0277] The host 130 includes a negative pressure mechanism and a housing. The negative pressure mechanism can directly or indirectly apply negative pressure to the breast shield 110 to suck the breast milk into the milk storage container 120.

[0278] In the present application, the direct or indirect application of negative pressure to the breast shield refers to: preferably, the indirect application of negative pressure to the breast shield, which is usually used for a gas pump for generating negative pressure to be communicated to a gas-liquid separation diaphragm or air bag through a gas path, and the negative pressure is transmitted to the breast shield through the deformation of the diaphragm or air bag, so that the milk can be prevented from being sucked into the negative pressure pump, the milk is not contaminated, and the gas pump or circuit is not damaged; the direct application of negative pressure to the breast shield refers to that the gas pump is directly communicated to the breast shield through a gas path, and the negative pressure is directly applied to the inside of the breast shield, which is a secondary way.

[0279] Optionally, the negative pressure mechanism includes but is not limited to a piezoelectric pump, a diaphragm pump, a hydraulic pump, a mechanical pump or the like.

[0280] In one possible implementation, the negative pressure mechanism can be directly communicated to the breast shield 110 to cause negative pressure inside the breast shield 110. In another possible implementation, the negative pressure mechanism transmits negative pressure to a diaphragm or an air bag or the like liquid blocking member to indirectly cause negative pressure inside the breast shield 110, for example Figure 13 The negative pressure mechanism indirectly causes negative pressure inside the breast shield 110 through the diaphragm.

[0281] Optionally, the negative pressure mechanism is at least partially arranged in the housing, and the housing can further include an energy supply module, a negative pressure gas path, a control circuit board, a solenoid valve and the like components.

[0282] Please refer to Figure 25 , Figure 25 is a schematic diagram of a host of a second type of breast pump provided by the embodiments of the present application. As shown in Figure 25 , the housing 131 of the host 130 includes: a housing 1311 attached to the milk storage container 120, and a housing 1312 attached to the milk storage container 120 and extending towards the milk storage container 120.

[0283] Figure 25 In the present application, the housing 1311 can be regarded as the bottom wall of the host 130.

[0284] Figure 25The middle shell 1312 only extends to a position close to the top of the milk storage container 120. In some cases, the shell 1312 can extend to a position close to the bottom of the milk storage container 120. In other cases, the shell 1312 can extend to a position close to the bottom of the milk storage container 120.

[0285] Please refer to Figure 26 and Figure 27 , Figure 26 is a first schematic view of a milk storage container of a second type of breast pump provided in embodiments of the present application. Figure 27 is a second schematic view of a milk storage container of a second type of breast pump provided in embodiments of the present application.

[0286] As shown in Figure 26 and Figure 27 , the outer shell 124 of the milk storage container 120 includes a top wall 1241, a side wall 1242, and a bottom wall 1243.

[0287] In some embodiments, the differential capacitive sensor assembly is arranged on the outer side of the milk storage container shell that does not contact the milk. In other embodiments, the differential capacitive sensor assembly is arranged on the outer side of the milk storage container shell that does not contact the milk, away from the inside of the milk storage container.

[0288] By way of example, in the second type of breast pump 100, the areas where the differential capacitive sensor assembly can be arranged include, but are not limited to:

[0289] 1. The outer side of the top wall 1241 that does not contact the milk.

[0290] 2. The outer side of the side wall 1242 that does not contact the milk.

[0291] 3. The outer side of the bottom wall 1243 that does not contact the milk.

[0292] 4. The inner side of the shell 1311 close to the milk storage container 120 or the outer side of the shell 1311 away from the milk storage container 120.

[0293] 5. The inner side of the shell 1312 close to the milk storage container 120 or the outer side of the shell 1312 away from the milk storage container 120.

[0294] It can be understood that when the structure of the breast pump changes, the optional arrangement areas will also change accordingly, and the above-mentioned optional arrangement areas should not be understood as a limitation made by embodiments of the present application. The arrangement principle of the differential capacitive sensor assembly for detecting different parameters can be referred to the description in the first type of breast pump 1, which will not be described here.

[0295] Optionally, the outer side of the top wall 1241 that does not contact the milk can be arranged with a differential capacitive sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value and / or the full milk state, for example Figure 26a differential capacitor sensor assembly 123 in the milk storage container 120, which includes an electrode 1231 and an electrode 1232.

[0296] Optionally, a differential capacitor sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value and / or the full milk state can be arranged at a position near the top of the sidewall 1242 of the milk storage container 120. A differential capacitor sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value and / or the empty milk state can be arranged at a position near the bottom of the sidewall 1242 of the milk storage container 120. A differential capacitor sensor assembly for detecting the milk volume or the liquid level can be arranged along the rising direction of the milk liquid surface on the sidewall 1242, for example, Figure 27 a differential capacitor sensor assembly 121 in the milk storage container 120, which includes an electrode 1211 and an electrode 1212.

[0297] Optionally, a differential capacitor sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value and / or the empty milk state can be arranged at a position near the bottom of the sidewall 1242 of the milk storage container 120. Figure 27 a differential capacitor sensor assembly 122 in the milk storage container 120, which includes an electrode 1221 and an electrode 1222.

[0298] Optionally, Figure 25 the top wall 1241 of the milk storage container 120, so a differential capacitor sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value and / or the full milk state can be arranged in the shell 1311.

[0299] Optionally, Figure 25 the shell 1312 extends to a position near the top of the milk storage container 120, so a differential capacitor sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value and / or the full milk state can be arranged. In some cases, if the shell 1312 extends to a position near the bottom of the milk storage container 120, a differential capacitor sensor assembly for detecting the milk volume or the liquid level can be arranged along the rising direction of the milk liquid surface. In other cases, if the shell 1312 extends to a position close to the bottom of the milk storage container 120, a differential capacitor sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value and / or the empty milk state can be arranged.

[0300] The above lists two different structures of breast pumps to introduce the arrangement of the differential capacitor sensor assembly in detail, but the present application is not limited to the two listed breast pump structures, and the differential capacitor sensor assembly can also be arranged on other breast pump structures using the arrangement ideas disclosed in the present application, such as a breast pump structure in which the host is connected to the milk storage container through a three-way assembly.

[0301] After the detection value of the differential capacitance sensor assembly is obtained, i.e., the capacitance value of the parallel capacitor group in the differential capacitance sensor assembly, the state parameter of the milk storage container is calculated according to the detection value by using a software algorithm.

[0302] The following describes how to calculate the state parameter of the milk storage container according to the detection value by using a software algorithm.

[0303] Regarding the calculation of the empty milk state:

[0304] In some embodiments, when the detection value of the differential capacitance sensor assembly for detecting the empty milk state is greater than a preset empty milk value, the milk storage container is considered to be in the empty milk state, otherwise, the milk storage container is considered to be in the non-empty milk state. In some cases, the preset empty milk value is the detection value measured when the milk storage container is in the empty milk state at the factory. In other cases, the preset empty milk value is the detection value measured when the milk storage container is in the empty milk state at the factory plus a preset value, so as to avoid the failure of the judgment caused by the fluctuation of the detection value due to some interference. The specific value of the preset value can be selected according to the actual situation, and the present application does not make any limitation.

[0305] In other embodiments, the processing unit can send the detection value to a server, a mobile phone or other terminal, and the server, the mobile phone or other terminal can calculate the empty milk state.

[0306] Regarding the calculation of the full milk state:

[0307] In some embodiments, when the detection value of the differential capacitance sensor assembly for detecting the full milk state is greater than a preset full milk value, the milk storage container is considered to be in the full milk state, otherwise, the milk storage container is considered to be in the non-full milk state. In some cases, the preset full milk value is the detection value measured when the milk storage container is in the full milk state at the factory. In other cases, the preset full milk value is the detection value measured when the milk storage container is in the full milk state at the factory plus a preset value, so as to avoid the failure of the judgment caused by the fluctuation of the detection value due to some interference. The specific value of the preset value can be selected according to the actual situation, and the present application does not make any limitation.

[0308] In other embodiments, the processing unit can send the detection value to a server, a mobile phone or other terminal, and the server, the mobile phone or other terminal can calculate the full milk state.

[0309] Regarding the calculation of the milk amount or the liquid level:

[0310] In some embodiments, the processing unit can call a preset mapping relationship for indicating the corresponding relationship between the detection value and the milk amount or the liquid level, and determine the milk amount or the liquid level according to the detection value and the preset mapping relationship. The preset mapping relationship can be a table, an array, a queue or a stack, and the present application does not make any limitation.

[0311] In some embodiments, the processing unit can send the detection value to a server, a mobile phone or other terminal, and the server, the mobile phone or other terminal can calculate the milk volume or the liquid level.

[0312] Regarding the calculation of the unit height milk detection value:

[0313] In some embodiments, the detection value of the differential capacitance sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value divided by the detection height is equal to the unit height milk detection value. For example, if the differential capacitance sensor assembly can measure the liquid level change in the range of 8-10 cm, the detection height is 10 cm-8 cm=2 cm.

[0314] In some embodiments, the detection value of the differential capacitance sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value divided by the detection height is equal to the unit height milk detection value. For example, if the differential capacitance sensor assembly can measure the liquid level change in the range of 8-10 cm, the detection height is 10 cm-8 cm=2 cm.

[0315] For example, if the liquid level detection range of the differential capacitance sensor assembly is 8-10 cm, and the detection value of the differential capacitance sensor assembly will be slightly disturbed by the change of the liquid level when the liquid level is higher than 10 cm or the liquid level is lower than 8 cm, the correction coefficient or the preset correction value can be calculated according to the above disturbance,

[0316] Regarding the application of the unit height milk detection value:

[0317] The differential capacitance sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value is defined as the reference sensor. The working sensor is defined as the differential capacitance sensor assembly for detecting the state parameters of the remaining milk storage container, such as the differential capacitance sensor assembly for detecting the full milk state or the empty milk state or the milk volume or the liquid level.

[0318] In some embodiments, the true detection value of the working sensor = the detection value of the working sensor / unit height milk detection value.

[0319] In some embodiments, the true detection value of the working sensor = the detection value of the working sensor / unit height milk detection value.

[0320] The following describes how to calculate the state parameters of the milk storage container according to the reference sensor with examples. Figure 18 The example shown in the figure is used for illustration, and for the sake of simplicity, the Figure 18The differential capacitance sensor assembly 45A in FIG. 1 is referred to as a first sensor, the differential capacitance sensor assembly 46A is referred to as a second sensor, and the differential capacitance sensor assembly 47A is referred to as a third sensor.

[0321] See also Figure 28 , Figure 28 It is a schematic diagram of the milk full state detection method provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 28 The third sensor is used to detect the full milk state, and the second sensor 46A is used to detect the empty milk state and the unit height milk detection value. Figure 28 As shown, the milk full state detection method 100 includes: steps 110 to 190.

[0322] Step 110: Acquire the detection value of the third sensor.

[0323] Step 120: Determine whether the detection value of the third sensor is greater than a preset milk full value.

[0324] For the explanation of the preset milk full value, please refer to the introduction in the above section and will not be repeated here.

[0325] If the detection value of the third sensor is greater than the preset milk full value, then execute step 130. If the detection value of the third sensor is less than or equal to the preset milk full value, then return to execute step 110.

[0326] In one case, the third sensor's detection value is greater than the preset milk full value because the breast pump is truly empty. However, in other cases, the third sensor's detection value is greater than the preset milk full value due to external interference, such as liquid level fluctuations caused by human touch, user movement, or liquid level tilt caused by the breast pump being tilted. Therefore, it is not possible to directly conclude that the milk storage container is full when the third sensor's detection value is greater than the preset milk full value.

[0327] In some embodiments, in order to eliminate false alarms caused by liquid level tilt, the breast pump is further equipped with a tilt sensor for detecting whether the breast pump is tilted. The tilt sensor is used to further improve the accuracy of milk full detection. In this case, step 120 includes the following steps.

[0328] (1) Determine whether the detection value of the third sensor is greater than the preset milk full value.

[0329] (2) When the detection value of the third sensor is greater than the preset milk full value and the detection result of the tilt sensor is not tilted, execute step 130.

[0330] (3) When the detection value of the third sensor is greater than the preset milk full value and the detection result of the tilt sensor is tilt, the preset operation is performed.

[0331] Optionally, the preset operation in step (3) includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: 1, stopping the milk fullness detection for a preset time; 2, sending an error prompt to the display interface of the breast pump; 3, sending an error prompt to the terminal of the user.

[0332] Step 130: obtaining a detection value of the second sensor.

[0333] Step 140: judging whether the detection value of the second sensor is greater than a preset empty milk value.

[0334] The preset empty milk value can be referred to the above description, and will not be repeated here.

[0335] The second sensor is used for both empty milk detection and unit height milk detection, and when the detection value of the second sensor is less than the preset empty milk value, it indicates that the milk storage container is in an empty milk state and cannot be in a milk full state.

[0336] If the detection value of the second sensor is greater than the preset empty milk value, step 150 is executed. If the detection value of the second sensor is less than or equal to the preset empty milk value, step 190 is executed.

[0337] Step 150: judging whether the difference between the current detection value and the last detection value of the second sensor is less than a preset difference value.

[0338] Because the detection value of the second sensor is greater than the preset empty milk value, the sensitivity of the second sensor to the change in liquid level height is low at this time, so it can be considered that the detection value of the second sensor is basically changed due to external interference. Therefore, when the difference between the current detection value and the last detection value of the second sensor is less than the preset difference value, it indicates that the second sensor is not disturbed or is slightly disturbed by the external environment, and it can be considered that the third sensor is also not disturbed or is slightly disturbed by the external environment, and step 160 is executed. When the difference between the current detection value and the last detection value of the second sensor is greater than or equal to the preset difference value, it indicates that the second sensor is disturbed by the external environment, resulting in a large fluctuation in the detection value, and it can be considered that the third sensor is also disturbed by the external environment, and at this time, the error between the current detection value and the true detection value of the third sensor is large, and the detection value needs to be corrected, and step 170 is executed.

[0339] Step 160: determining that the milk storage container is in a milk full state.

[0340] Step 170: calculating a unit height milk detection value.

[0341] Optionally, the unit height milk detection value is equal to the current detection value of the second sensor divided by the detection height, but the application is not limited thereto, and specific details can be referred to the above description, and will not be repeated here.

[0342] Step 180: updating the detection value of the second sensor according to the unit height milk liquid detection value.

[0343] The calculation method of the real detection value of the working sensor can be understood from the above description, and will not be repeated here.

[0344] Step 190: determining that the milk storage container is not full.

[0345] It can be understood that the above method process is not limited to the third sensor, and the processing idea can be used in the working sensor for detecting the parameters of the remaining milk storage containers, such as the first sensor. Through steps 140 and 150, it can also be determined whether the first sensor is disturbed by the outside world, and through steps 170 and 180, the real detection value of the first sensor can also be calculated. Only the parameters of the second sensor in step 180 are replaced by the parameters of the first sensor. Therefore, the above method embodiment is only used for illustration, and should not be understood as a limitation on the present application.

[0346] In the above method, the second sensor is used as a reference sensor, and the third sensor is used as a working sensor to judge the interference and correct the detection value of the third sensor, which can effectively avoid the influence of various interferences on the working sensor.

[0347] The present application also provides a differential capacitive sensor assembly which can be detachably installed on the milk storage container of the breast pump and detect the state parameters of the milk storage container.

[0348] The specific structure of the differential capacitive sensor assembly can be understood from the description of any of the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0349] Optionally, the differential capacitive sensor assembly comprises a communication port for inserting a connection line to communicate with the breast pump.

[0350] Optionally, the differential capacitive sensor assembly comprises a wireless communication module for wireless communication with the breast pump.

[0351] In one possible implementation, the differential capacitive sensor assembly is interference fitted with the milk storage container. In another possible implementation, the differential capacitive sensor assembly is magnetically mounted with the milk storage container. In yet another possible implementation, the differential capacitive sensor assembly is snap mounted with the milk storage container. In yet another possible implementation, the differential capacitive sensor assembly is screw mounted with the milk storage container. In yet another possible implementation, an elastic member on the differential capacitive sensor assembly is inserted into a receptacle of the milk storage container, and the position of the differential capacitive sensor assembly is fixed by the elastic force generated by the deformation of the elastic member. The above examples are merely for illustration, and the present application does not limit the mounting manner of the differential capacitive sensor assembly and the milk storage container.

[0352] The present application also provides a breast pump, which comprises a milk storage container, a milk volume detection capacitive sensor, a reference capacitive sensor, and a processing unit; the milk storage container is used for storing milk; the milk volume detection capacitive sensor is used for obtaining a first detection value, which comprises a current milk volume storage container capacitive detection value; the reference capacitive sensor is used for obtaining a second detection value, which comprises a unit height milk storage container capacitive detection value; and the processing unit is used for determining the liquid level height value or the milk volume value of the milk storage container corresponding to the milk volume detection capacitive sensor according to the first detection value of the milk volume detection capacitive sensor and the second detection value of the reference capacitive sensor.

[0353] The milk volume detection capacitive sensor is a capacitive sensor assembly for detecting the liquid level height or the milk volume, such as the differential capacitive sensor assembly for detecting the liquid level height or the milk volume in any of the above embodiments.

[0354] Optionally, the current milk volume storage container capacitive detection value is equal to the first detection value, and the first detection value is the capacitive value of the milk volume detection capacitive sensor.

[0355] The reference capacitive sensor is a capacitive sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value, such as the differential capacitive sensor assembly for detecting the unit height milk detection value in any of the above embodiments.

[0356] Optionally, the unit height milk detection value is equal to the second detection value, and the second detection value is the capacitive value of the reference capacitive sensor.

[0357] As an example, referring to Figure 18 , the milk volume detection capacitive sensor can be the differential capacitive sensor assembly 45A in the above embodiments, and the reference capacitive sensor can be the differential capacitive sensor assembly 46A or the differential capacitive sensor assembly 47A in the above embodiments.

[0358] As another example, referring to Figure 27The milk volume detection capacitor sensor can be the differential capacitor sensor assembly 121 in the above embodiments, and the reference capacitor sensor can be the differential capacitor sensor assembly 123 or the differential capacitor sensor assembly 122 in the above embodiments.

[0359] In some cases, in the direction of the rising of the milk liquid level, the bottom of the parallel capacitor group of the milk volume detection capacitor sensor assembly and the bottom of the parallel capacitor group of the reference capacitor sensor assembly are at the same height, and the top of the parallel capacitor group of the milk volume detection capacitor sensor assembly is higher than the top of the parallel capacitor group of the reference capacitor sensor assembly. Thus, the two have the same liquid level height or milk volume detection range, and the detection values of the two can also be verified with each other when the liquid level or the milk volume is at the same liquid level or in the same milk volume detection range, thereby ensuring the detection accuracy.

[0360] In other cases, in the direction of the rising of the milk liquid level, the bottom of the parallel capacitor group of the milk volume detection capacitor sensor assembly is higher than the top of the parallel capacitor group of the reference capacitor sensor assembly. Thus, the required arrangement space is saved, and the structure is compact.

[0361] Preferably, the milk volume detection capacitor sensor assembly and the reference capacitor sensor assembly are arranged in the same arrangement area. Thus, the influence of various interferences on the detection values of the milk volume detection capacitor sensor assembly and the reference capacitor sensor assembly is as same as possible.

[0362] By arranging the reference capacitor sensor assembly, the detection value of the milk volume detection capacitor sensor assembly can be corrected, the detection accuracy of the milk volume detection capacitor sensor assembly is improved, more accurate milk volume data is output to the user, and the breast pump needs to be controlled to stop when the milk storage container is full of milk to prevent milk overflow. If there is no reference capacitor sensor assembly, the stop operation is easily triggered by external interference, resulting in poor user experience of the breast pump.

[0363] The application also provides a breast pump, which comprises a milk storage container and a non-contact empty milk detection sensor assembly; the milk storage container is used for storing milk liquid; and the empty milk detection sensor assembly is used for detecting the empty milk state of the milk storage container; wherein the empty milk state includes an empty milk condition and a non-empty milk condition.

[0364] The empty milk detection sensor assembly is used for detecting the empty milk state of the milk storage container. It can be understood that when the milk storage container changes from the empty milk condition to the non-empty milk condition, it means that milk liquid enters the milk storage container, i.e., the user starts to express milk.

[0365] Specifically, when the empty milk state is the empty milk condition, no milk liquid is stored in the milk storage container or the amount of stored milk liquid is less than a preset empty milk value; and when the empty milk state is the non-empty milk condition, milk liquid is stored in the milk storage container or the amount of stored milk liquid is greater than or equal to the preset empty milk value.

[0366] In a possible implementation, the host 30 comprises a host housing 31, the empty milk detection sensor assembly comprises a sensor unit, the sensor unit is arranged on the host housing 31, the host housing 31 is mounted on or at least partially in contact with the outer side of the milk storage container housing 21, and the sensor unit is close to or in contact with the outer side of the milk storage container housing 21.

[0367] When the empty milk detection sensor assembly is a capacitive sensor assembly, the sensor unit comprises a capacitive unit in the capacitive sensor assembly; when the capacitive sensor assembly is a differential capacitive sensor assembly, the capacitive unit comprises a detection electrode assembly of the differential capacitive sensor assembly. When the empty milk detection sensor assembly is a photoelectric sensor assembly, the sensor unit comprises a light emitter and a light receiver in the photoelectric sensor assembly. Thus, the empty milk state of the milk storage container is accurately detected by the sensor unit.

[0368] In another possible implementation, the empty milk detection sensor assembly is a capacitive sensor assembly, the host 30 comprises a main body 33 extending along the rising direction of the milk liquid surface, the milk storage container 20 comprises a side wall extending along the rising direction of the milk liquid surface, the main body 33 is in contact with or close to the side wall, and the capacitive sensor assembly is arranged in the main body.

[0369] The side wall of the milk storage container 20 extending along the rising direction of the milk liquid surface can be a second housing 212 in the milk storage container 20. Figure 5

[0370] In yet another possible implementation, the empty milk detection sensor assembly is a photoelectric sensor, and at least a partial region of the milk storage container 20 is a transparent or translucent housing. The photoelectric sensor detects the empty milk state of the milk storage container through the transparent or translucent structure on the milk storage container 20.

[0371] Further, in the possible implementation, if the photoelectric sensor is arranged inside the host 30, at least a partial region of the host housing 31 is a transparent or translucent housing, and the transparent or translucent housing in the host housing 31 corresponds to the position of the transparent or translucent housing in the milk storage container 20.

[0372] Please refer to Figures 29 to 30 , Figure 29 which is a first arrangement diagram of the photoelectric sensor provided by the embodiments of the present application. Figure 30 which is a second arrangement diagram of the photoelectric sensor provided by the embodiments of the present application. As shown in Figure 29 and Figure 30 , the empty milk detection sensor assembly can also be a photoelectric sensor 51 or a photoelectric sensor 52.

[0373] In Figure 29 ​In the embodiment shown, the photoelectric sensor 51 is arranged on the base 34 and emits detection light toward the bottom of the milk storage container 20 and receives reflected light.

[0374] In Figure 30 In the embodiment shown, the photoelectric sensor 52 is arranged on the main body 33 near the bottom of the milk storage container and emits detection light toward the bottom of the milk storage container 20 and receives reflected light.

[0375] In some cases, the photoelectric sensor can be a reflective photoelectric sensor, when the milk storage container has no liquid, the reflected light intensity is low, when the milk storage container has liquid, the reflected light intensity is high, and the empty milk state can be determined according to the intensity of the reflected light. In other cases, the photoelectric sensor can also be a transmission photoelectric sensor or a scattering photoelectric sensor, which is not limited in the present application.

[0376] In another possible implementation, the empty milk detection sensor assembly is a pressure sensor, which determines whether the milk storage container has milk inflow by detecting the pressure increase.

[0377] In the use scenario of the breast pump, the mother is very concerned about whether the breast pump has pumped milk. The setting of the empty milk detection sensor assembly can determine whether the breast pump is empty or not. Non-empty milk means that milk has been pumped out, thereby reminding the mother that milk is currently being pumped out. The detection of the empty milk state is crucial for the switching of the breast pump mode or the automatic start of the breast pump.

[0378] In some cases, the milk pumped out by the breast pump flows into the milk storage container from the milk inlet. The empty milk detection sensor assembly is arranged at the milk inlet position corresponding to the milk inlet. Further, in the direction of the rising of the milk liquid surface, the empty milk detection sensor assembly is at least partially arranged below the milk inlet.

[0379] As an example, the milk inlet can be a valve of a one-way valve, or an outlet of a milk inlet channel connecting the milk storage container and the breast shield.

[0380] Since the milk usually flows into the milk storage container by gravity, arranging the empty milk detection sensor assembly at least partially below the milk inlet can detect the milk when the milk flows into the milk storage container.

[0381] Next, how to control the breast pump according to the empty milk state to improve the pumping effect will be introduced. Please refer to Figure 31 , Figure 31 is a flowchart of a control method of a breast pump provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0382] As Figure 31 shown, the control method 200 of the breast pump includes steps 210 to 220.

[0383] Step 210: obtaining a detection value of the empty milk detection sensor assembly.

[0384] In the case that the empty milk detection sensor assembly is a capacitive sensor assembly, the detection value is a capacitance value of the capacitive sensor assembly.

[0385] In the case that the empty milk detection sensor assembly is a photoelectric sensor assembly, the detection value is a high-level signal and a low-level signal, or a voltage value, or a current value.

[0386] Step 220: in the case that the detection value indicates that the breast pump is not in the empty milk state, controlling the breast pump to switch from the first working mode to the second working mode.

[0387] In one possible implementation, step 220 includes: in the case that the detection value indicates that the breast pump is not in the empty milk state, controlling the breast pump to switch from the milk secretion stimulation mode to the milk extraction mode.

[0388] In the milk secretion stimulation mode, at least one of the following functions is included: a simulated sucking function, a hot compress function, a vibration function, a massage function, and an electric stimulation function.

[0389] The simulated sucking function is to stimulate the mammary glands by simulating the frequency and rhythm of infant sucking to promote milk secretion. The hot compress function is to promote milk secretion by heating. The vibration function is to stimulate the breast by generating slight vibration. The massage function is to promote milk secretion by massage. The electric stimulation function is to stimulate the breast by weak current to promote milk secretion.

[0390] Further, the milk secretion stimulation mode can simultaneously have multiple functions, for example, simultaneously including a hot compress mode and a massage mode.

[0391] In another possible implementation, step 220 includes: in the case that the detection value indicates that the breast pump is not in the empty milk state, controlling the breast pump to switch from the first milk extraction mode to the second milk extraction mode; wherein at least one of the milk extraction frequency and the milk extraction strength in the second milk extraction mode is greater than that in the first milk extraction mode.

[0392] By monitoring the empty milk state, the milk extraction efficiency can be improved, and the pain of the breast caused by strong milk extraction when there is no milk secretion can be avoided.

[0393] The present application provides another breast pump, which includes: a milk storage container and a capacitive sensor assembly; the milk storage container is used for storing the extracted milk; the capacitive sensor assembly is used for detecting a parameter of the milk storage container; and the capacitive sensor assembly is arranged on the outside of the milk storage container and does not contact the milk.

[0394] In the capacitive sensor assembly, the differential capacitive sensor assembly in any of the above embodiments can be included.

[0395] In some embodiments, the differential capacitive sensor assembly is a first type of differential capacitive sensor assembly for detecting an empty milk state of the milk storage container and a unit height milk detection value.

[0396] One differential capacitive sensor assembly in the present application can have multiple functions, which can save the space in the breast pump and facilitate the miniaturization and refinement of the breast pump.

[0397] The present application provides another breast pump, which comprises a milk storage container and a plurality of capacitive sensor assemblies; the milk storage container comprises a milk storage container shell, which comprises an inner side in contact with milk and an outer side not in contact with milk; each capacitive sensor assembly comprises a detection electrode assembly, and each detection electrode assembly is arranged on or near the outer side. The plurality of capacitive sensor assemblies detect different state parameters of the milk storage container.

[0398] The capacitive sensor assembly can comprise the differential capacitive sensor assembly in any of the above embodiments.

[0399] By arranging a plurality of differential capacitive sensor assemblies, the parameters of the milk storage container can be comprehensively detected, and the user experience and the intelligentization of the breast pump can be improved.

[0400] The present application provides another breast pump, which comprises a milk storage container and three differential capacitive sensor assemblies; the first differential capacitive sensor assembly comprises a first detection electrode assembly, which is arranged in a bottom region in the milk level rising direction in the milk storage container; the second differential capacitive sensor assembly comprises a second detection electrode assembly, which is arranged in a top region in the milk level rising direction in the milk storage container; and the third differential capacitive sensor assembly comprises a third detection electrode assembly, which extends from the bottom region to the top region in the milk level rising direction in the milk storage container.

[0401] In the milk level rising direction in the milk storage container, the height of the bottom of the third detection electrode assembly is lower than or equal to the height of the top of the first detection electrode assembly, and the height of the top of the third detection electrode assembly is higher than or equal to the height of the bottom of the second detection electrode assembly.

[0402] The first differential capacitive sensor assembly is used for detecting a full milk state of the milk storage container; the second differential capacitive sensor assembly is used for detecting at least one of an empty milk state of the milk storage container and a unit height milk detection value; and the third differential capacitive sensor assembly is used for detecting the milk amount in the milk storage container or the liquid level height in the milk storage container.

[0403] For specific details, please refer to Figure 18The relevant descriptions in any embodiment will not be repeated here.

[0404] For example, in this embodiment, the first differential capacitance sensor component may be Figure 18 The differential capacitance sensor assembly 46A in the second differential capacitance sensor assembly can be Figure 18 The differential capacitance sensor assembly 47A in the embodiment of the present invention may be a third differential capacitance sensor assembly. Figure 18 The differential capacitive sensor assembly 45A in FIG.

[0405] The present application provides another breast pump, which includes a milk storage container and three groups of differential capacitance sensor assemblies; the first group of differential capacitance sensor assemblies includes a first detection electrode assembly, which is arranged in the top area in the direction of rising milk level in the milk storage container; the second group of differential capacitance sensor assemblies includes a second detection electrode assembly, which extends from the bottom area to the middle area in the direction of rising milk level in the milk storage container; the third group of differential capacitance sensor assemblies includes a third detection electrode assembly, which extends from the middle area to the top area in the direction of rising milk level in the milk storage container.

[0406] Wherein, in the direction of rising of the milk liquid level, the height of the bottom of the third detection electrode assembly is higher than the height of the top of the second detection electrode assembly.

[0407] Among them, the first group of differential capacitance sensor components is used to detect the milk fullness status of the milk storage container; the second group of differential capacitance sensor components is used to detect the milk volume within a first milk volume range or the liquid level within a first liquid level height range of the milk storage container; the third group of differential capacitance sensor components is used to detect the milk volume within a second milk volume range or the liquid level within a second liquid level height range of the milk storage container.

[0408] For details, please refer to Figure 21 The relevant descriptions in any embodiment will not be repeated here.

[0409] For example, in this embodiment, the first differential capacitance sensor component may be Figure 21 The differential capacitance sensor assembly 47D in the second differential capacitance sensor assembly can be Figure 21 The differential capacitance sensor assembly 48B in the embodiment of the present invention may be a third differential capacitance sensor assembly. Figure 21 Capacitive sensor 49B in.

[0410] The application provides a breast pump, comprising a milk storage container and three sets of differential capacitive sensor assemblies; the first set of differential capacitive sensor assemblies comprises a first detection electrode assembly, which is arranged at a top region in a milk level rising direction in the milk storage container; the second set of differential capacitive sensor assemblies comprises a second detection electrode assembly, which is arranged at a bottom region in the milk level rising direction in the milk storage container; and the third set of differential capacitive sensor assemblies comprises a third detection electrode assembly, the height of the top of the third detection electrode assembly is lower than the height of the first detection electrode assembly, and the height of the bottom of the third detection electrode assembly is higher than the height of the second detection electrode assembly in the milk level rising direction in the milk storage container.

[0411] The third detection electrode assembly extends from the bottom region to the top region in the milk level rising direction.

[0412] The first set of differential capacitive sensor assemblies are used for detecting a full milk state of the milk storage container; the second set of differential capacitive sensor assemblies are used for detecting at least one of an empty milk state of the milk storage container and a unit height milk detection value; and the third set of differential capacitive sensor assemblies are used for detecting the milk amount in the milk storage container or the liquid level height in the milk storage container.

[0413] For specific details, please refer to Figure 19 and the related descriptions in any embodiment, which are not described herein again.

[0414] For example, the first set of differential capacitive sensor assemblies are the differential capacitive sensor assemblies 47B in Figure 19 , the second set of differential capacitive sensor assemblies are the differential capacitive sensor assemblies 46B in Figure 19 , and the third set of differential capacitive sensor assemblies are the differential capacitive sensor assemblies 45B in Figure 19 .

[0415] The capacitive sensor assemblies in the application are not limited to the integrated breast pump in which the host and the milk bowl are integrated, but can also be implemented in a split breast pump configuration in which the host and the milk storage container are not integrated or not completely integrated. The split breast pump includes two types.

[0416] The first type is that the breast pump assembly formed by the breast shield and the milk storage container is integrated on the chest, and is connected to the host with a gas pump or a handheld host with a gas pump through a flexible air pipe; usually, the flexible air pipe is connected to the milk storage container through a connecting cover to directly or indirectly transmit negative pressure to the breast shield or the milk storage container. Preferably, the capacitive sensor assemblies or the differential capacitive sensor assemblies in the above embodiments can be integrated on the cover, or the capacitive sensor assemblies or the differential capacitive sensor assemblies are a separate detachable accessory that is detachably connected to the milk storage container and transmits signals to the host through a wire or wireless signal.

[0417] See also Figure 32 , Figure 32 Schematic diagram of the structure of the third type of breast pump provided in the embodiment of the present application. Figure 32 As shown, Figure 32 The invention comprises: a milk pumping assembly 310 and a main unit 320 , wherein the milk pumping assembly 310 further comprises a breast shield (not shown in the figure), a milk storage container 311 and a negative pressure hatch 312 .

[0418] The main unit 320 and the negative pressure hatch 312 are connected via a flexible air tube so as to transmit the negative pressure directly or indirectly to the breast shield.

[0419] Further, Figure 32 The main unit 320 further includes a three-way connector 330, through which the main unit 320 can be connected to multiple milk suction components, thereby providing negative pressure to the multiple milk suction components simultaneously or individually.

[0420] in, Figure 32 The sensor assembly 340 in the embodiment may be a capacitive sensor assembly or a differential capacitive sensor assembly. Figure 32 The sensor assembly 340 is integrated into the milk storage container 311 , and the sensor assembly 340 is preferably detachably mounted to the milk storage container 311 .

[0421] However, in a possible implementation, the sensor assembly 340 may also be integrated into the negative pressure cabin cover 312 , and the sensor assembly 340 is preferably detachably mounted to the negative pressure cabin cover 312 .

[0422] In the second category, a milking assembly formed by a breast shield and a milk storage container is integrated into the chest, and a first host containing an air pump is also integrated into the milking assembly. The first host transmits negative pressure directly or indirectly to the breast shield or the milk storage container. The first host is connected to an external second host via wires, and the second host contains a battery and a control panel. Preferably, the capacitive sensor assembly or differential capacitive sensor assembly in the above embodiments can be integrated into the first host, or the capacitive sensor assembly or differential capacitive sensor assembly can be an independent detachable accessory that is detachably connected to the milk storage container and transmits negative pressure to the second host via wires or wireless signals.

[0423] The air pump used in this application includes but is not limited to a diaphragm pump, a piston pump, a piezoelectric pump, etc., and also includes other pumps or negative pressure drive methods that may be applied to a breast pump.

[0424] The shape of the breast pump in the embodiment of the present application is for illustration only, and the scope of protection of the present utility model application is not limited to the shape of the breast pump in the embodiment.

[0425] In the description of the present specification, the description referring to the terms "in some embodiments", "some embodiments", "illustrative embodiments", "examples", "specific examples", or "some examples" and the like means that the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described in connection with the embodiments or examples are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present application. In the present specification, the illustrative description of the above terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials or characteristics described can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0426] In addition, the above is only a preferred embodiment of the present application, and is not intended to limit the present application. Any modification, equivalent replacement and improvement made within the spirit and principle of the present application shall be included in the protection scope of the present application. Therefore, the protection scope of the present application shall be subject to the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A breast pump, characterized in that: The breast pump comprises: a milk storage container and three groups of differential capacitance sensor components; The first differential capacitive sensor assembly includes a first detection electrode assembly, which is arranged at the top area in the direction of rising milk level in the milk storage container; The second differential capacitive sensor assembly includes a second detection electrode assembly, which extends from the bottom area to the middle area in the direction of the rising milk level in the milk storage container; The third group of differential capacitive sensor assemblies includes a third detection electrode assembly. In the direction of rising milk level in the milk storage container, the third detection electrode assembly extends from the middle area to the top area.

2. The breast pump according to claim 1, wherein: In the direction of rising milk level, the bottom of the third detection electrode assembly is higher than the top of the second detection electrode assembly.

3. The breast pump according to claim 1, wherein: The first group of differential capacitive sensor components is used to detect whether the milk storage container is full of milk; The second group of differential capacitive sensor components is used to detect the milk volume within a first milk volume range or the liquid level within a first liquid level range of the milk storage container; The third group of differential capacitance sensor components is used to detect the milk volume within a second milk volume range or the liquid level within a second liquid level range of the milk storage container.

4. The breast pump according to claim 1, wherein: The differential capacitance sensor assembly includes a detection electrode assembly and a control circuit; The detection electrode assembly includes at least one parallel capacitor group arranged opposite to each other, and the parallel capacitor group includes a first electrode and a second electrode; The control circuit is at least used to charge the detection electrode assembly and detect the capacitance value of the detection electrode assembly.

5. The breast pump according to claim 4, characterized in that The first electrode and the second electrode are sheet-type electrodes arranged in parallel.

6. The breast pump according to claim 4, characterized in that The breast pump further comprises a processing unit, the control circuit comprises a conversion unit, and the conversion unit comprises an excitation module, a sampling module and a conversion module; The excitation module generates a charging signal for charging the detection electrode assembly, and the charge on the detection electrode assembly is transmitted to the conversion module through the sampling module, and the conversion module converts the analog voltage into a digital signal; The processing unit is used to calculate the state parameter of the milk storage container corresponding to the differential capacitance sensor assembly according to the digital signal.

7. The breast pump according to claim 1, wherein: The milk storage container comprises a milk storage container shell, wherein the milk storage container shell comprises an inner side surface contacting the milk and an outer side surface not contacting the milk; The first detection electrode assembly, the second detection electrode assembly, and the third detection electrode assembly are all disposed on the outer side surface or close to the outer side of the outer side surface.

8. The breast pump according to claim 7, wherein: The breast pump further includes a host, and the first detection electrode assembly, the second detection electrode assembly, and the third detection electrode assembly are all arranged on the host.

9. The breast pump according to claim 8, characterized in that The host includes a host housing, the first detection electrode assembly, the second detection electrode assembly, and the third detection electrode assembly are arranged on the host housing, the host housing is mounted on the outer surface of the milk storage container housing or at least partially contacts the outer surface of the milk storage container housing, and the first detection electrode assembly, the second detection electrode assembly, and the third detection electrode assembly are close to or in contact with the outer surface of the milk storage container housing.

10. The breast pump according to claim 8, wherein: The host further comprises a component setting layer and a sensor setting layer, wherein the sensor setting layer is arranged between the component setting layer and the host housing; The first detection electrode assembly, the second detection electrode assembly, and the third detection electrode assembly are disposed on the sensor arrangement layer.

11. The breast pump according to claim 1, wherein: The breast pump further comprises: a breast shield and a main unit, wherein the breast shield comprises a flange for fitting the breast; The milk storage container is used to receive and store breast milk collected by the breast shield, and the milk storage container is in communication with the breast shield; The host comprises a negative pressure mechanism, which is used to directly or indirectly apply negative pressure to the breast shield to pump breast milk into the milk storage container.

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