Liquid level detection structure, water supply module, cleaning robot and cleaning system

Abstract

The utility model provides a liquid level detection structure, a water supply module, a cleaning robot and a cleaning system. The liquid level detection structure comprises a communication body, a detection assembly and a one-way valve. The communicating body is provided with a first water inlet, a first overflow port, a first water outlet, a water outlet channel and an overflow channel, the water outlet channel is communicated with the first water inlet and the first water outlet, and the overflow channel is communicated with the first overflow port and the water outlet channel. The detection assembly is installed on the communication body and used for detecting whether water flows in the water outlet channel or not. And the one-way valve is mounted in the overflow channel. The valve body is movably installed in the overflow channel, the sensitivity of the valve body to pressure sensing is increased, the threshold value is reduced, it is guaranteed that the one-way valve can be smoothly opened when the water tank is full of water and overflows, the situation that water leakage is caused by too large water pressure of the water tank is avoided, and the reliability of the liquid level detection structure, the water supply module, the cleaning robot and the cleaning system is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of cleaning equipment technology, and in particular to a liquid level detection structure, a water supply module, a cleaning robot, and a cleaning system. Background Technology

[0002] Cleaning robots, as products that automatically sweep, vacuum, and mop, are widely used in home and commercial cleaning applications due to their high cleaning efficiency and excellent cleaning effect, effectively improving people's living environment by replacing manual labor. As people's demands increase, the intelligence of cleaning robots is also constantly improving, leading to the development of base stations to enable functions such as automatic water replenishment. When the water in the cleaning tank is depleted, the cleaning robot can automatically return to the base station to refill, and during the refilling process, it can automatically identify the water level in the tank and automatically stop refilling when the tank is full. However, the water level recognition structure of existing cleaning robots has low sensitivity to pressure sensing and a high threshold, causing it to fail to open smoothly when the tank is full and overflowing, resulting in water tank leakage. Utility Model Content

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to address the problem that the water level recognition structure of existing cleaning robots has low sensitivity to pressure sensing, a high threshold, and cannot open smoothly when the water tank is full, leading to water leakage. To provide a liquid level detection structure, a water supply module, a cleaning robot, and a cleaning system, it is necessary to provide a liquid level detection structure, a water supply module, a cleaning robot, and a cleaning system.

[0004] The technical solution is as follows:

[0005] Firstly, a liquid level detection structure is provided, including:

[0006] The main body is connected to a first water inlet, a first overflow outlet, a first water outlet, a water outlet channel, and an overflow channel. The water outlet channel connects the first water inlet and the first water outlet, and the overflow channel connects the first overflow outlet and the water outlet channel.

[0007] A detection component is installed on the connecting body and is used to detect whether there is water flow in the water outlet channel;

[0008] A one-way valve is installed in the overflow channel;

[0009] The overflow channel has an abutment portion on its inner sidewall. The one-way valve includes a valve body that is movably installed in the overflow channel. The valve body is configured to engage with the abutment portion to close the overflow channel when water flows from the outlet channel to the overflow channel, and to separate from the abutment portion to open the overflow channel when water flows from the overflow channel to the outlet channel.

[0010] In the liquid level detection structure described in the above embodiments, the valve body is movably installed in the overflow channel. This increases the valve body's sensitivity to pressure sensing and reduces the threshold, ensuring that the one-way valve can open smoothly when the water tank is full and overflowing. This prevents water leakage caused by excessive water pressure and improves the reliability of the liquid level detection structure.

[0011] The technical solution will be further explained below:

[0012] In one embodiment, the two ends of the water outlet channel are respectively connected to the first water inlet and the first water outlet. The overflow channel includes a first connecting hole and a second connecting hole connected to the first overflow outlet. One end of the second connecting hole extends to the outer wall of the connecting body and is connected to one end of the first connecting hole. The other end of the first connecting hole is connected to the end of the water outlet channel near the first water inlet. The liquid level detection structure also includes a sealing cover. The sealing cover is disposed on the second connecting hole to seal the second connecting hole. The contact part is located on the inner side wall of the second connecting hole and is spaced apart from the sealing cover. The valve body is located inside the second connecting hole and moves and cooperates with the sealing cover along the axial direction of the second connecting hole.

[0013] In one embodiment, the sealing cap is provided with a limiting hole extending axially along the second communicating hole on the side near the valve body, and the valve body is provided with a limiting part on the side near the sealing cap, the limiting part being movablely engaged with the limiting hole.

[0014] In one embodiment, the one-way valve further includes an elastic element sleeved on the outside of the limiting portion and located between the sealing cap and the valve body, the elastic element being used to provide a preload force to the valve body.

[0015] In one embodiment, the sealing cap has a mounting hole on the side near the valve body, the limiting hole is disposed on the bottom wall of the mounting hole, the elastic element is a spring, one end of the spring is installed in the mounting hole and abuts against the bottom wall of the mounting hole.

[0016] In one embodiment, the elastic element is configured as a spring, and the valve body has a mounting portion on the side near the sealing cover. The mounting portion is arranged circumferentially along the limiting portion and is limited and engaged with the end of the spring away from the sealing cover.

[0017] In one embodiment, the abutment portion is configured as an annular protrusion, the inner sidewall of the annular protrusion is provided with an abutment slope, the valve body is located inside the annular protrusion, the outer sidewall of the valve body is provided with an annular groove, and the one-way valve further includes a first annular seal, the first annular seal is installed in the annular groove and is configured to fill the gap between the abutment slope and the valve body when the valve body abuts against the abutment slope.

[0018] In one embodiment, the inner diameter of the abutting slope gradually decreases in the direction away from the sealing cover, the inner diameter of the side of the abutting slope away from the sealing cover is set as a first length, the inner diameter of the portion of the valve body located in the annular groove away from the sealing cover along the axial direction of the annular groove is set as a second length, and the inner diameter of the portion of the valve body located in the annular groove close to the sealing cover is set as a third length, the first length being greater than the second length and less than the third length.

[0019] In one embodiment, the connecting body includes a main body and a light guide through which light can pass. The main body has a first overflow outlet, a water outlet trough, a first inlet, a first outlet, and an overflow channel all connected to the water outlet trough. The first overflow outlet is connected to the overflow channel. The light guide is disposed on the side of the main body where the water outlet trough is located, and together with the main body, forms the water outlet channel. The detection component is located on the side of the light guide away from the main body. The light guide has a reflective surface that forms part of the channel wall of the water outlet channel. The detection component is used to emit detection light rays directed toward the reflective surface and to receive the detection light rays reflected by the reflective surface.

[0020] Secondly, a water supply module is provided, including a water tank, a water pump, a water circuit board and the liquid level detection structure. The water tank is provided with a second water outlet and a second overflow outlet connected to the first overflow outlet. The water pump is provided with an inlet connector connected to the second water outlet and an outlet connector connected to the first inlet. The water circuit board is provided with a second inlet connected to the first water outlet.

[0021] In the above embodiment, the water supply module can detect water shortage and fullness with a single detection component. Compared with the prior art which uses two sensors for separate detection, this effectively reduces the number of parts in the water supply module, simplifies its structure, saves overall space, and lowers the production cost of the water supply module.

[0022] In one embodiment, the water supply module further includes a first pumping pipe, a second pumping pipe, an outlet pipe, and an overflow pipe. The two ends of the first pumping pipe are respectively connected to the second outlet and the inlet connector; the two ends of the second pumping pipe are respectively connected to the outlet connector and the first inlet; the two ends of the outlet pipe are respectively connected to the first outlet and the second inlet; and the two ends of the overflow pipe are respectively connected to the first overflow outlet and the second overflow outlet. Thus, the liquid level detection structure can be installed independently of the water tank and water circuit board, simplifying the internal flow channels, achieving simple and convenient installation, simplifying the component structure, and improving the applicability and stability of the water supply module.

[0023] In one embodiment, the water tank has a receiving cavity, and the end of the second water outlet located within the receiving cavity is designated as the first end. The first end communicates with the bottom of the receiving cavity, and the bottom wall of the receiving cavity located below the first end is partially recessed. Thus, the partially recessed area is the lowest point of the receiving cavity, which can collect water. The first end is positioned corresponding to the partially recessed area to ensure that all the water in the water tank can be used up, improving the practicality of the water supply module.

[0024] In one embodiment, the second overflow outlet is located at the top of the water tank, and a baffle rib is provided at the bottom of the second overflow outlet to increase the overflow height of the water tank. Thus, the baffle rib raises the water level line of the water tank, ensuring that water flows out of the second overflow outlet only after passing over the baffle rib, thereby increasing the capacity of the water tank and improving space utilization.

[0025] Thirdly, a cleaning robot is provided, including a robot body, a cleaning module, and a water supply module, wherein the water supply module and the cleaning module are both installed on the robot body.

[0026] The cleaning robot in the above embodiments has a cleaning mode and a water replenishment mode. When the cleaning robot is in cleaning mode, the water supply module provides cleaning water to the cleaning module, which can then use the cleaning water to clean the surface to be cleaned. When the cleaning robot is in water replenishment mode, the cleaning robot connects to a base station, and the base station replenishes the cleaning water to the water supply module.

[0027] Specifically, when the cleaning robot is in cleaning mode, water in the tank enters the water pump through the second outlet, the first suction pipe, and the inlet connector. Then, it enters the water circuit board through the outlet connector, the second suction pipe, the first inlet, the outlet channel, the first outlet, the outlet pipe, and the second inlet, thus providing cleaning water for the cleaning module. When the cleaning robot is in water replenishment mode, water overflowing from the tank enters the water circuit board through the second overflow outlet, the overflow pipe, the first overflow outlet, the overflow channel, the outlet channel, the first outlet, the outlet pipe, and the second inlet.

[0028] During the above process, the detection component emits detection light rays towards the reflective surface and receives the detection light rays reflected by the reflective surface. When the cleaning robot is in cleaning mode, if there is no water flowing through the water outlet channel, the detection component can receive detection light rays with high intensity, indicating that the water tank is empty. If water flows through the water outlet channel, the reflectivity of the reflective surface changes, and the detection component receives detection light rays with lower intensity, indicating that the water tank is in normal water supply mode. When the cleaning robot is in water replenishment mode, if there is no water flowing through the water outlet channel, the detection component can receive detection light rays with high intensity, indicating that the water tank needs to be replenished. If water flows through the water outlet channel, the detection component receives detection light rays with lower intensity, indicating that the water tank is full and replenishment needs to be stopped.

[0029] Fourthly, a cleaning system is provided, including a base station and the cleaning robot, wherein the base station is used to dock with the cleaning robot to replenish water to the cleaning robot.

[0030] In the above embodiments, the liquid level detection structure, water supply module, cleaning robot, and cleaning system utilize a system where cleaning water is stored in a water tank. A water pump draws water from the tank and delivers it to the water circuit board via the liquid level detection structure. The water in the water circuit board flows to the cleaning module to supply it with water. By detecting the water flow in the main body, the water level in the tank can be determined, thereby accurately controlling the working state of the cleaning robot. Specifically, when the cleaning robot is in cleaning mode, the water pump draws water from the tank and pumps it into the main body. The one-way valve is closed, preventing water from overflowing through the overflow channel. The water pumped into the main body flows through the outlet channel and enters the water circuit board through the first outlet. At this time, the detection component can detect water flow in the outlet channel. When the cleaning robot is in cleaning mode and the detection component detects no water flow in the outlet channel, the water in the tank is depleted, triggering the cleaning robot to automatically return to the base station for refilling. When the cleaning robot is in refilling mode, it docks with the base station, which then refills the water tank. When the water tank is full, excess water enters the main body through the second overflow port and the first overflow port. The one-way valve opens, and the water pump has a self-locking capability to prevent water from flowing through itself. The water entering the main body flows sequentially through the overflow channel, the outlet channel, and the first outlet, and enters the water circuit board through the second inlet. At this time, the detection component can detect water flow in the outlet channel. When the cleaning robot is in water replenishment mode and the detection component detects water flow in the outlet channel, a full water signal is triggered, and the base station stops replenishing water to the tank. In addition, the valve body in this application is movably installed in the overflow channel, which increases the valve body's sensitivity to pressure sensing and reduces the threshold, ensuring that the one-way valve can open smoothly when the water tank is full and overflowing, avoiding water leakage caused by excessive water pressure, and improving the reliability of the liquid level detection structure, water supply module, cleaning robot, and cleaning system. Attached Figure Description

[0031] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of this application. The illustrative embodiments of this application and their descriptions are used to explain this application and do not constitute an undue limitation of this application.

[0032] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a water supply module according to one embodiment.

[0034] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Exploded view of the water supply module.

[0035] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the liquid level detection structure in the image.

[0036] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Exploded view of the liquid level detection structure.

[0037] Figure 5 for Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the liquid level detection structure along the AA direction.

[0038] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the liquid level detection structure from another perspective.

[0039] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A magnified view of part B in the middle section.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a liquid level detection structure according to another embodiment.

[0041] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the liquid level detection structure.

[0042] Figure 10 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the water tank in the diagram.

[0043] Figure 11 for Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the water tank along the CC direction.

[0044] Figure 12 for Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the water tank along the DD direction.

[0045] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0046] 10. Water supply module; 100. Liquid level detection structure; 110. Connecting body; 111. First water inlet; 112. First overflow outlet; 113. First water outlet; 114. Water outlet channel; 115. Overflow channel; 1151. First connecting hole; 1152. Second connecting hole; 116. Contact part; 1161. Contact slope; 117. Limiting rib; 118. Main body; 119. Light guide; 1191. Reflective surface; 120. Detection component; 121. Circuit board; 122. Transmitting unit; 123. Receiving unit; 124. Light shield; 130. One-way valve; 131. 132. Valve body; 133. Elastic element; 134. Limiting part; 135. Mounting part; 136. Annular groove; 140. First annular seal; 141. Sealing cover; 142. Limiting hole; 143. Mounting hole; 200. Water tank; 211. Second outlet; 212. Second overflow; 213. Receiving cavity; 214. Water baffle; 300. Water pump; 311. Inlet connector; 312. Outlet connector; 400. Water circuit board; 411. Second inlet; 500. First pumping pipe; 600. Second pumping pipe; 700. Outlet pipe; 800. Overflow pipe; 21. Mounting bracket. Detailed Implementation

[0047] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0048] In one embodiment, a cleaning system is provided, including a base station and a cleaning robot. The cleaning robot can move on a ground surface to clean the floor. The base station is used to dock with the cleaning robot to replenish its water supply.

[0049] Optionally, the cleaning robot includes a robot body, a water supply module 10, and a cleaning module. Both the water supply module 10 and the cleaning module are mounted on the robot body. The cleaning robot has a cleaning mode and a water replenishment mode. When the cleaning robot is in cleaning mode, the water supply module 10 provides cleaning water to the cleaning module, which can then use the water to clean the surface to be cleaned. When the cleaning robot is in water replenishment mode, the cleaning robot connects to a base station, and the base station replenishes the water supply module 10 with cleaning water.

[0050] like Figure 1 As shown, in this specific embodiment, the robot body includes a mounting bracket 21. Both the water supply module 10 and the cleaning module can be mounted on the mounting bracket 21 via snap-fit, screw-fit, or other methods.

[0051] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, a water supply module 10 is provided, which includes a water tank 200, a water pump 300, a water circuit board 400, and a liquid level detection structure 100.

[0052] The liquid level detection structure 100 includes a connecting body 110, a detection component 120, and a one-way valve 130. The connecting body 110 has a first inlet 111, a first overflow 112, a first outlet 113, an outlet channel 114, and an overflow channel 115. The outlet channel 114 connects the first inlet 111 and the first outlet 113. The overflow channel 115 connects the first overflow 112 and the outlet channel 114. The detection component 120 is installed on the connecting body 110 and is used to detect whether there is water flow in the outlet channel 114. The one-way valve 130 is installed in the overflow channel 115.

[0053] The overflow channel 115 has an abutment portion 116 on its inner sidewall. The one-way valve 130 includes a valve body 131 movably installed within the overflow channel 115. The valve body 131 is configured to engage with the abutment portion 116 to close the overflow channel 115 when water flows from the outlet channel 114 to the overflow channel 115, and to disengage from the abutment portion 116 to open the overflow channel 115 when water flows from the overflow channel 115 to the outlet channel 114.

[0054] The water tank 200 is provided with a second outlet 211 and a second overflow outlet 212 connected to the first overflow outlet 112. The water pump 300 is provided with an inlet connector 311 connected to the second outlet 211 and an outlet connector 312 connected to the first inlet 111. The water circuit board 400 is provided with a second inlet 411 connected to the first outlet 113.

[0055] In the cleaning robot described in the above embodiment, the cleaning water is stored in the water tank 200. The water pump 300 can draw water from the water tank 200 and deliver it to the water circuit board 400 through the liquid level detection structure 100. The water in the water circuit board 400 flows to the cleaning module to supply water to the cleaning module. By obtaining the water flow status in the main body 110 through the detection component 120, the water volume in the water tank 200 can be determined, thereby accurately controlling the working status of the cleaning robot.

[0056] Specifically, when the cleaning robot is in cleaning mode, the water pump 300 draws water from the water tank 200 and pumps it into the connecting body 110. The one-way valve 130 is closed, and the water in the connecting body 110 is blocked from passing through the overflow channel 115. The water pumped into the connecting body 110 flows through the outlet channel 114 and enters the water circuit board 400 from the first outlet 113. At this time, the detection component 120 can detect that there is water flowing in the outlet channel 114.

[0057] When the cleaning robot is in cleaning mode and the detection component 120 detects that there is no water flow in the water outlet channel 114, the water in the water tank 200 is depleted, triggering the cleaning robot to automatically return to the base station for water replenishment.

[0058] When the cleaning robot is in water replenishment mode, it connects to the base station, which replenishes the water tank 200. When the water tank 200 is full, excess water enters the connecting body 110 from the second overflow port 212 and the first overflow port 112. The one-way valve 130 opens, and the water pump 300 has a self-locking capability to prevent water from flowing through itself. The water entering the connecting body 110 flows sequentially through the overflow channel 115, the outlet channel 114, and the first outlet port 113, and enters the water circuit board 400 from the second inlet port 411. At this time, the detection component 120 can detect that there is water flowing in the outlet channel 114.

[0059] When the cleaning robot is in water replenishment mode and the detection component 120 detects water flow in the water outlet channel 114, a water full signal is triggered, and the base station stops replenishing water to the water tank 200.

[0060] In addition, the valve body 131 in this application is movably installed in the overflow channel 115. The valve body 131 has increased sensitivity to pressure sensing and reduced threshold, ensuring that the one-way valve 130 can open smoothly when the water tank 200 is full and overflowing, avoiding water leakage caused by excessive water pressure in the water tank 200, and improving the reliability of the liquid level detection structure 100, water supply module 10, cleaning robot and cleaning system.

[0061] The detection component 120 can be configured as any structure in the prior art capable of sensing or detecting whether there is water flow within the water channel 114. For example, the detection component 120 can be configured as a capacitive sensor or a photoelectric sensor, etc.

[0062] Among them, water pump 300 can be set as a peristaltic pump or other pump with self-locking water capability.

[0063] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, optionally, the two ends of the water outlet channel 114 are connected to the first water inlet 111 and the first water outlet 113, respectively. The overflow channel 115 includes a first connecting hole 1151 and a second connecting hole 1152 connected to the first overflow outlet 112. One end of the second connecting hole 1152 extends to the outer wall of the connecting body 110 and is connected to one end of the first connecting hole 1151. The other end of the first connecting hole 1151 is connected to the end of the water outlet channel 114 near the first water inlet 111. The liquid level detection structure 100 also includes a sealing cover 140, which is placed on the second connecting hole 1152 to seal the second connecting hole 1152. The contact part 116 is located on the inner side wall of the second connecting hole 1152 and is spaced apart from the sealing cover 140. The valve body 131 is located inside the second connecting hole 1152 and is engaged with the sealing cover 140 along the axial direction of the second connecting hole 1152. Thus, the second connecting hole 1152 extends to the outer wall of the connecting body 110 to facilitate the assembly of the valve body 131. In addition, the sealing cover 140 can also limit and guide the valve body 131, preventing the valve body 131 from tilting while ensuring that the valve body 131 can move back and forth along the axial direction of the second connecting hole 1152 to correspond to or separate from the contact part 116, thereby improving the reliability of the liquid level detection structure 100.

[0064] The valve body 131 can move in conjunction with the sealing cover 140 using any of the linear movement methods available in the prior art.

[0065] Specifically, in this embodiment, the axis of the first connecting hole 1151 is perpendicular to the axis of the second connecting hole 1152. Along the axial direction of the second connecting hole 1152, the sealing cap 140 and the contact portion 116 are located on opposite sides of the first connecting hole 1151.

[0066] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, specifically in this embodiment, the sealing cap 140 has a limiting hole 141 extending axially along the second connecting hole 1152 on the side near the valve body 131, and a limiting part 133 is provided on the side of the valve body 131 near the sealing cap 140. The limiting part 133 is movably engaged with the limiting hole 141. The limiting part 133 can be configured as a limiting post. The outer diameter of the limiting post is adapted to the inner diameter of the limiting hole 141.

[0067] Specifically, in this embodiment, the liquid level detection structure 100 further includes a second annular seal, and the second connecting hole 1152 is located inside the second annular seal. The second annular seal fills the gap between the connecting body 110 and the sealing cover 140, so that the connecting body 110 and the sealing cover 140 are sealed together. The second annular seal can be configured as an annular sealing ring or other annular sealing structure.

[0068] Specifically, in this embodiment, the sealing cap 140 and the connecting body 110 can be sealed by ultrasonic welding or induced welding, eliminating the need for screws and improving the reliability of the liquid level detection structure 100.

[0069] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, in one embodiment, the one-way valve 130 further includes an elastic element 132, which is sleeved on the outside of the limiting portion 133 and located between the sealing cover 140 and the valve body 131. The elastic element 132 is used to provide a pre-tightening force to the valve body 131. In this way, the valve body 131 can maintain a contacting fit with the contact portion 116 under the action of the pre-tightening force. At the same time, the opening threshold of the one-way valve 130 can be adjusted by adjusting the magnitude of the pre-tightening force provided by the elastic element 132 to the valve body 131, thereby improving the practicality of the liquid level detection structure 100.

[0070] In this specific embodiment, the elastic element 132 is set as a spring. When the direction of the water pressure on the valve body 131 is the same as the spring return direction, the one-way valve 130 is closed; when the direction of the water pressure on the valve body 131 is different from the spring return direction, the one-way valve 130 is opened.

[0071] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, optionally, the sealing cap 140 has a mounting hole 142 on the side near the valve body 131, and a limiting hole 141 is provided on the bottom wall of the mounting hole 142. One end of the spring is installed in the mounting hole 142 and abuts against the bottom wall of the mounting hole 142. In this way, the inner wall of the mounting hole 142 can limit the end of the spring near the sealing cap 140, so that the position of the spring in the second connecting hole 1152 remains stable, ensuring that the spring can extend and retract axially along the second connecting hole 1152, thereby improving the reliability of the liquid level detection structure 100.

[0072] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, optionally, a mounting portion 134 is provided on the side of the valve body 131 near the sealing cover 140. The mounting portion 134 is arranged circumferentially along the limiting portion 133 and engages with the end of the spring away from the sealing cover 140. In this way, the mounting portion 134 can limit the end of the spring near the valve body 131, so that the position of the spring in the second connecting hole 1152 remains stable, ensuring that the spring can extend and retract axially along the second connecting hole 1152, thereby improving the reliability of the liquid level detection structure 100.

[0073] In this embodiment, the mounting portion 134 is configured as mounting blocks, and the number of mounting blocks is at least two. Each mounting block is in communication with both the valve body 131 and the limiting post. Each mounting block has a guide slope on the side near the sealing cover 140. The mounting blocks are spaced apart around the axis of the limiting post to form a first limiting structure. The outer diameter of the first limiting structure is adapted to the inner diameter of the spring. The end of the spring near the valve body 131 is sleeved on the outside of the first limiting structure. Specifically, the valve body 131, the limiting post, and each mounting block are integrally formed. In other embodiments, the mounting portion 134 may also be configured as an annular mounting groove.

[0074] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, in one embodiment, the contact portion 116 is configured as an annular protrusion, and the inner sidewall of the annular protrusion is provided with an abutment slope 1161. The valve body 131 is located inside the annular protrusion, and the outer sidewall of the valve body 131 is provided with an annular groove 135. The one-way valve 130 also includes a first annular seal 136, which is installed in the annular groove 135 and configured to fill the gap between the abutment slope 1161 and the valve body 131 when the valve body 131 abuts against the abutment slope 1161. In this way, the first annular seal 136 can enhance the sealing performance between the valve body 131 and the contact portion 116, and improve the reliability of the liquid level detection structure 100.

[0075] The first annular seal 136 can be configured as an annular sealing ring, an annular sealing gasket, or other annular sealing structure.

[0076] like Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown, optionally, the inner diameter of the abutting slope 1161 gradually decreases in the direction away from the sealing cover 140, and the inner diameter of the side of the abutting slope 1161 away from the sealing cover 140 is set as a first length. Along the axial direction of the annular groove 135, the inner diameter of the portion of the valve body 131 located on the side of the annular groove 135 away from the sealing cover 140 is set as a second length, and the inner diameter of the portion of the valve body 131 located on the side of the annular groove 135 close to the sealing cover 140 is set as a third length. The first length is greater than the second length and less than the third length. Thus, the first length is greater than the second length, which increases the contact area between the first annular seal 136 and the abutting slope 1161, improving the reliability of the liquid level detection structure 100. The first length is less than the third length, which allows the abutting slope 1161 to also limit the position of the valve body 131, ensuring that the valve body 131 does not completely pass through the abutting portion 116, improving the reliability of the liquid level detection structure 100.

[0077] like Figure 4 and Figure 7As shown, optionally, the inner wall of the second connecting hole 1152 is further provided with at least one limiting rib 117. Each limiting rib 117 is located on the side of the annular protrusion near the sealing cover 140 and is spaced apart around the axis of the second connecting hole 1152. One end of each limiting rib 117 communicates with the annular protrusion, and the other end of each limiting rib 117 extends axially along the second connecting hole 1152. The limiting ribs 117 cooperate to form a second limiting structure. The valve body 131 is located inside the second limiting structure, and the second limiting structure is used to restrict the radial movement of the valve body 131 along the second connecting hole 1152.

[0078] In this specific embodiment, the main body 118, the annular protrusion, and each limiting rib 117 are integrally formed.

[0079] The end of the second connecting hole 1152 away from the sealing cover 140 can be set as a blind end or an open end.

[0080] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, both ends of the second connecting hole 1152 extend to the outer wall of the connecting body 110. Two sealing caps 140 are provided, each covering one end of the second connecting hole 1152 to seal both ends of the second connecting hole 1152. The first overflow port 112 extends to the inner wall of the second connecting hole 1152 and communicates with the second connecting hole 1152.

[0081] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the end of the second connecting hole 1152 away from the first connecting hole 1151 extends to the outer wall of the connecting body 110 to form the first overflow outlet 112. Alternatively, the end of the second connecting hole 1152 away from the first connecting hole 1151 is directly connected to the first overflow outlet 112.

[0082] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the water supply module 10 further includes a first pumping pipe 500, a second pumping pipe 600, an outlet pipe 700, and an overflow pipe 800. The two ends of the first pumping pipe 500 are connected to the second outlet 211 and the inlet connector 311, respectively. The two ends of the second pumping pipe 600 are connected to the outlet connector 312 and the first inlet 111, respectively. The two ends of the outlet pipe 700 are connected to the first outlet 113 and the second inlet 411, respectively. The two ends of the overflow pipe 800 are connected to the first overflow outlet 112 and the second overflow outlet 212, respectively. Thus, the liquid level detection structure 100 is installed independently of the water tank 200 and the water circuit board 400, simplifying the internal flow channel, achieving simple and convenient installation, simplifying the component structure, and improving the applicability and stability of the water supply module 10.

[0083] Specifically, in this embodiment, the water tank 200 includes a lower cover and an upper cover disposed on the lower cover. The upper cover and the lower cover can be sealed by ultrasonic welding or induced welding.

[0084] like Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, optionally, the water tank 200 has a receiving cavity 213, and the end of the second outlet 211 located inside the receiving cavity 213 is designated as the first end. The first end is connected to the bottom of the receiving cavity 213, and the bottom wall of the receiving cavity 213 located below the first end is partially recessed. Thus, the partially recessed area is the lowest point of the receiving cavity 213 to collect water, and the first end is correspondingly set to ensure that all the water in the water tank 200 can be used up, improving the practicality of the water supply module 10.

[0085] Specifically, in this embodiment, the bottom wall of the receiving cavity 213 located below the first end is partially recessed to form a water collection trough. The first end extends vertically, and the projection area of ​​the first end is located within the projection area of ​​the water collection trough.

[0086] like Figure 10 and Figure 12 As shown, optionally, the second overflow outlet 212 is located at the top of the water tank 200, and a water-blocking rib 214 is provided at the bottom of the second overflow outlet 212. The water-blocking rib 214 is used to increase the overflow height of the water tank 200. In this way, the water-blocking rib 214 can raise the water level line of the water tank 200, so that the water in the water tank 200 will only flow out from the second overflow outlet 212 after it is higher than the water-blocking rib 214, thereby increasing the capacity of the water tank 200 and improving the space utilization rate.

[0087] Specifically, in this embodiment, the water-blocking rib 214 is disposed on the end face of one end of the second overflow port 212 located in the receiving cavity 213, and blocks the lower half of the second overflow port 212.

[0088] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, in one embodiment, the connecting body 110 includes a main body 118 and a light guide 119 through which light can pass. The main body 118 is provided with a first overflow port 112, a water outlet trough, and a first inlet port 111, a first outlet port 113, and an overflow channel 115, all of which are connected to the water outlet trough. The first overflow port 112 is connected to the overflow channel 115. The light guide 119 is disposed on the side of the main body 118 where the water outlet trough is located, and forms a water outlet channel 114 with the main body 118. The detection component 120 is located on the side of the light guide 119 away from the main body 118; wherein, the light guide 119 has a reflective surface 1191 forming a portion of the channel wall of the water outlet channel 114, and the detection component 120 is used to emit detection light rays directed toward the reflective surface 1191 and receive detection light rays reflected by the reflective surface 1191.

[0089] Thus, when the cleaning robot is in cleaning mode, water in the water tank 200 enters the water pump 300 through the second outlet 211, the first suction pipe 500, and the inlet connector 311. Then, it enters the water circuit board 400 through the outlet connector 312, the second suction pipe 600, the first inlet 111, the outlet channel 114, the first outlet 113, the outlet pipe 700, and the second inlet 411, thereby providing cleaning water for the cleaning module. When the cleaning robot is in water replenishment mode, water overflowing from the water tank 200 enters the water circuit board 400 through the second overflow outlet 212, the overflow pipe 800, the first overflow outlet 112, the overflow channel 115, the outlet channel 114, the first outlet 113, the outlet pipe 700, and the second inlet 411.

[0090] During the above process, the detection component 120 emits detection light rays directed towards the reflective surface 1191 and receives the detection light rays reflected by the reflective surface 1191. When the cleaning robot is in cleaning mode, if no water flows through the water outlet channel 114, the detection component 120 can receive detection light rays with high intensity, indicating that the water in the water tank 200 is exhausted; while if water flows through the water outlet channel 114, the reflectivity of the reflective surface 1191 changes, and the detection component 120 receives detection light rays with lower intensity, indicating that the water tank 200 is in a normal water supply state. When the cleaning robot is in water replenishment mode, if no water flows through the water outlet channel 114, the detection component 120 can receive detection light rays with high intensity, indicating that the water tank 200 needs to be replenished; while if water flows through the water outlet channel 114, the detection component 120 receives detection light rays with lower intensity, indicating that the water tank 200 is full and water replenishment needs to be stopped.

[0091] Since the water supply module 10 can realize water shortage detection and water full detection through a single detection component 120, compared with the existing technology which uses two sensors for separate detection, the number of parts in the water supply module 10 is effectively reduced, the structure of the water supply module 10 is simplified, thereby saving overall space and reducing the production cost of the water supply module 10.

[0092] Optionally, the light guide 119 is formed of a transparent material that allows light to pass through. The light guide 119 is generally flat and has a light guide portion protruding on the side of the light guide 119 near the main body 118. The light guide portion extends into the water outlet groove of the main body 118.

[0093] In some embodiments, the reflective surface 1191 is bent and extended to form a first sub-reflective surface and a second sub-reflective surface that are set at an angle. The first sub-reflective surface and the second sub-reflective surface are set at an angle, and the included angle between the first sub-reflective surface and the second sub-reflective surface is greater than 0° and less than or equal to 90°. Therefore, the detection light emitted by the detection component 120 can be reflected back to the detection component 120 by the first sub-reflective surface and the second sub-reflective surface in sequence.

[0094] In some embodiments, the detection assembly 120 further includes a third annular seal located between the light guide 119 and the body 118, and on the outside of the reflective surface 1191. The third annular seal is interference-fitted with both the light guide 119 and the body 118, thereby ensuring a good seal between the light guide 119 and the body 118 and preventing water leakage through the gap between them.

[0095] In some embodiments, the detection assembly 120 includes a circuit board 121, a transmitting unit 122, and a receiving unit 123. The transmitting unit 122 and the receiving unit 123 are spaced apart. The transmitting unit 122 is mounted on and electrically connected to the circuit board 121, and is used to emit detection light rays directed toward the reflecting surface 1191. The receiving unit 123 is mounted on and electrically connected to the circuit board 121, and is used to receive the detection light rays reflected by the reflecting surface 1191.

[0096] Optionally, to prevent the transmitting unit 122 from interfering with the receiving unit 123, the detection assembly 120 further includes a light-shielding member 124, which is disposed between the circuit board 121 and the light guide member 119. The light-shielding member 124 has a first connecting hole 1151 and a second connecting hole 1152. The first connecting hole 1151 is correspondingly disposed with the transmitting unit 122, and the second connecting hole 1152 is correspondingly disposed with the receiving unit 123. The detection light emitted by the transmitting unit 122 can pass through the first connecting hole 1151 to reach the reflecting surface 1191, and the detection light reflected by the reflecting surface 1191 can pass through the second connecting hole 1152 to reach the receiving unit 123.

[0097] In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" appear, these terms indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0098] Furthermore, where the terms "first" and "second" appear, these terms are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, where the term "multiple" appears, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0099] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0100] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the use of descriptions such as "above" or "below" the second feature indicates that the first and second features are in direct contact or indirect contact via an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. Similarly, "below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0101] It should be noted that if an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. If an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. If so, the terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this application are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0102] It should also be understood that, in interpreting the connection or positional relationships of components, although not explicitly described, connection and positional relationships are interpreted to include a range of error, which should be within the acceptable deviation range of a specific value as determined by a person skilled in the art. For example, "approximately," "about," or "substantially" can mean within one or more standard deviations, without limitation herein.

[0103] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0104] The above embodiments merely illustrate several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A liquid level detection structure, characterized in that, include: The main body (110) is provided with a first water inlet (111), a first overflow outlet (112), a first water outlet (113), a water outlet channel (114), and an overflow channel (115). The water outlet channel (114) connects the first water inlet (111) and the first water outlet (113), and the overflow channel (115) connects the first overflow outlet (112) and the water outlet channel (114). The detection component (120) is installed on the connecting body (110) and is used to detect whether there is water flowing in the water outlet channel (114); A one-way valve (130) is installed in the overflow channel (115); The inner wall of the overflow channel (115) is provided with an abutment portion (116), and the one-way valve (130) includes a valve body (131) movably installed in the overflow channel (115). The valve body (131) is configured to abut against the abutment portion (116) to close the overflow channel (115) when water in the outlet channel (114) flows to the overflow channel (115), and to separate from the abutment portion (116) to open the overflow channel (115) when water in the overflow channel (115) flows to the outlet channel (114).

2. The liquid level detection structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The two ends of the water outlet channel (114) are respectively connected to the first water inlet (111) and the first water outlet (113). The overflow channel (115) includes a first connecting hole (1151) and a second connecting hole (1152) connected to the first overflow outlet (112). One end of the second connecting hole (1152) extends to the outer wall of the connecting body (110) and is connected to one end of the first connecting hole (1151). The other end of the first connecting hole (1151) is close to the first water inlet of the water outlet channel (114). One end of the water inlet (111) is connected, and the liquid level detection structure (100) also includes a sealing cover (140). The sealing cover (140) is placed on the second connecting hole (1152) to seal the second connecting hole (1152). The contact part (116) is located on the inner side wall of the second connecting hole (1152) and is spaced apart from the sealing cover (140). The valve body (131) is located in the second connecting hole (1152) and moves and cooperates with the sealing cover (140) along the axial direction of the second connecting hole (1152).

3. The liquid level detection structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sealing cap (140) has a limiting hole (141) extending axially along the second connecting hole (1152) on the side near the valve body (131), and the valve body (131) has a limiting part (133) on the side near the sealing cap (140), and the limiting part (133) moves and cooperates with the limiting hole (141).

4. The liquid level detection structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, The one-way valve (130) also includes an elastic element (132), which is sleeved on the outside of the limiting part (133) and located between the sealing cover (140) and the valve body (131). The elastic element (132) is used to provide pre-tightening force to the valve body (131).

5. The liquid level detection structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The sealing cap (140) has a mounting hole (142) on the side near the valve body (131). The limiting hole (141) is located on the bottom wall of the mounting hole (142). The elastic element (132) is a spring. One end of the spring is installed in the mounting hole (142) and abuts against the bottom wall of the mounting hole (142).

6. The liquid level detection structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The elastic element (132) is configured as a spring, and the valve body (131) is provided with a mounting part (134) on the side near the sealing cover (140). The mounting part (134) is arranged circumferentially along the limiting part (133) and is limited and cooperated with the end of the spring away from the sealing cover (140).

7. The liquid level detection structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The contact part (116) is configured as an annular protrusion, and the inner sidewall of the annular protrusion is provided with a contact slope (1161). The valve body (131) is located inside the annular protrusion, and the outer sidewall of the valve body (131) is provided with an annular groove (135). The one-way valve (130) also includes a first annular seal (136), which is installed in the annular groove (135) and configured to fill the gap between the contact slope (1161) and the valve body (131) when the valve body (131) abuts against the contact slope (1161).

8. The liquid level detection structure according to claim 7, characterized in that, The inner diameter of the abutting inclined surface (1161) gradually decreases in the direction away from the sealing cap (140). The inner diameter of the side of the abutting inclined surface (1161) away from the sealing cap (140) is set as a first length. Along the axial direction of the annular groove (135), the inner diameter of the portion of the valve body (131) located on the side of the annular groove (135) away from the sealing cap (140) is set as a second length. The inner diameter of the portion of the valve body (131) located on the side of the annular groove (135) close to the sealing cap (140) is set as a third length. The first length is greater than the second length and less than the third length.

9. The liquid level detection structure according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The connecting body (110) includes a main body (118) and a light guide (119) through which light can pass. The main body (118) is provided with a first overflow outlet (112), a water outlet trough, a first water inlet (111), a first water outlet (113), and an overflow channel (115) all connected to the water outlet trough. The first overflow outlet (112) is connected to the overflow channel (115). The light guide (119) is disposed on the main body (118) where the water outlet trough is provided. The light guide (119) is located on one side of the light guide (119) and surrounds the main body (118) to form the water outlet channel (114). The detection component (120) is located on the side of the light guide (119) away from the main body (118). The light guide (119) has a reflective surface (1191) that forms part of the channel wall of the water outlet channel (114). The detection component (120) is used to emit detection light rays toward the reflective surface (1191) and receive the detection light rays reflected by the reflective surface (1191).

10. A water supply module, characterized in that, The system includes a water tank (200), a water pump (300), a water circuit board (400), and a liquid level detection structure (100) as described in any one of claims 1 to 9. The water tank (200) is provided with a second outlet (211) and a second overflow outlet (212) connected to the first overflow outlet (112). The water pump (300) is provided with an inlet connector (311) connected to the second outlet (211) and an outlet connector (312) connected to the first inlet outlet (111). The water circuit board (400) is provided with a second inlet outlet (411) connected to the first outlet outlet (113).

11. The water supply module according to claim 10, characterized in that, The water supply module (10) further includes a first pumping pipe (500), a second pumping pipe (600), an outlet pipe (700), and an overflow pipe (800). The two ends of the first pumping pipe (500) are respectively connected to the second outlet (211) and the inlet connector (311). The two ends of the second pumping pipe (600) are respectively connected to the outlet connector (312) and the first inlet (111). The two ends of the outlet pipe (700) are respectively connected to the first outlet (113) and the second inlet (411). The two ends of the overflow pipe (800) are respectively connected to the first overflow outlet (112) and the second overflow outlet (212).

12. The water supply module according to claim 10, characterized in that, The water tank (200) is provided with a receiving cavity (213). The end of the second water outlet (211) located in the receiving cavity (213) is set as the first end. The first end is connected to the bottom of the receiving cavity (213). The bottom wall of the receiving cavity (213) located below the first end is partially recessed.

13. The water supply module according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second overflow outlet (212) is located at the top of the water tank (200), and the bottom of the second overflow outlet (212) is provided with a water-blocking rib (214), which is used to increase the overflow height of the water tank (200).

14. A cleaning robot, characterized in that, It includes a robot body, a cleaning module, and a water supply module (10) as described in any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the water supply module (10) and the cleaning module are both mounted on the robot body.

15. A cleaning system, characterized in that, The system includes a base station and a cleaning robot as described in claim 14, wherein the base station is configured to dock with the cleaning robot to replenish the cleaning robot with water.

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