An intelligent water supply system for a hot and cold beverage machine

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of intelligent water supply systems for cold and hot beverage machine, including cold water tank and hot water tank;Still include: water storage tank, be configured in the top of cold water tank and hot water tank, water storage tank bottom is communicated with the top of cold water tank and hot water tank respectively by water supply conduit, to make water storage tank, cold water tank and hot water tank intercommunication;And automatic water replenishment module, for water replenishment to water storage tank, automatic water replenishment module includes the liquid level detection component configured on water storage tank and the water replenishment actuating mechanism connected with liquid level sensor signal;Wherein, automatic water replenishment module is configured as when liquid level detection component detects that the water level in water storage tank is lower than first preset water level, control water replenishment actuating mechanism water replenishment to water storage tank, by setting a common water storage tank located in the top of cold water tank and hot water tank, and with automatic water replenishment module, significantly reduce the number of parts, simplify pipeline connection, to reduce manufacturing cost and equipment internal space occupancy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] In the field of beverage preparation equipment technology, this utility model relates to an intelligent water supply system for hot and cold beverage machines. Background Technology

[0002] Hot and cold beverage machines, such as common coffee machines, tea makers, or hot and cold water dispensers, typically need to provide both cold and hot water to meet different brewing or drinking needs. One of the core components of such equipment is its water supply system, the design of which directly affects the equipment's performance, energy consumption, and reliability.

[0003] Traditional hot and cold beverage machines typically have separate cold and hot water tanks. Each tank requires an independent inlet valve or water replenishment device and is connected to an external water source. This design has several significant drawbacks: First, the system is complex with numerous components, leading to high manufacturing costs and a large footprint; second, multiple inlet control points increase the potential risk of leaks and failure rates. Some beverage machines also incorporate sensors in both the cold and hot water tanks to detect liquid levels, which complicates sensor maintenance and disassembly.

[0004] Chinese utility model patent CN2574554Y discloses a hot and cold beverage machine with an independent water storage tank and water replenishment structure. The drawbacks of this discrete design are obvious: First, the system structure is complex and has many parts, resulting in high manufacturing costs and tight internal space; second, multiple control points and connection points significantly increase the potential risk of water leakage and the failure rate of the control system, making maintenance inconvenient.

[0005] Therefore, there is an urgent need in this field for a simple water supply system for hot and cold beverage machines. Utility Model Content

[0006] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, the purpose of this invention is to provide an intelligent water supply system for hot and cold beverage machines. This system aims to simplify the structure, reduce energy consumption, and improve reliability through integrated water supply design and optimized structural layout.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted by this utility model is as follows: An intelligent water supply system for hot and cold beverage machines includes a cold water tank and a hot water tank; it also includes: A water storage tank is positioned above the cold water tank and the hot water tank. The bottom of the water storage tank is connected to the top of the cold water tank and the hot water tank respectively via water supply pipes, so that the water storage tank, the cold water tank, and the hot water tank are interconnected; and An automatic water replenishment module is used to replenish water into the water storage tank. The automatic water replenishment module includes a liquid level detection component disposed on the water storage tank and a water replenishment actuator configured to be signal-connected to the liquid level detection component. The automatic water replenishment module is configured to control the water replenishment actuator to replenish water into the water storage tank when the liquid level detection component detects that the water level in the water storage tank is lower than the first preset water level.

[0008] Furthermore, the liquid level detection component includes a liquid level sensor, which is disposed at the lower end of the side wall of the water storage tank to reduce the degree of heat exchange between the cold water tank and the hot water tank.

[0009] Furthermore, the liquid level sensor is a float-type liquid level sensor, a capacitive liquid level sensor, or a photoelectric liquid level sensor.

[0010] Furthermore, the bottom of the water storage tank is provided with at least two water outlets, and the top of both the cold water tank and the hot water tank is provided with water inlets corresponding to the water outlets. The water outlets and water inlets are connected through the water supply conduit.

[0011] Furthermore, the upper end of the water storage tank is provided with a first vent, and the top of the cold water tank and the hot water tank are respectively provided with a second vent and a third vent. An exhaust pipe is connected between the first vent and the second and third vents to form a pressure balance between the water storage tank, the cold water tank and the hot water tank, so that the water in the water storage tank can flow smoothly into the cold water tank and the hot water tank.

[0012] Furthermore, the highest point of the exhaust pipe is higher than the highest water level line of the water storage tank.

[0013] Furthermore, the automatic water replenishment module is configured to stop replenishing water when the liquid level detection component detects that the water level is higher than the second preset water level.

[0014] Furthermore, the water replenishment actuator includes a water pump connected to an external water source.

[0015] Furthermore, the automatic water replenishment module also includes a controller, which is signal-connected to the liquid level detection component and the water replenishment actuator, and is used to precisely control the start and stop of the water replenishment process according to the liquid level signal.

[0016] Furthermore, the top of the water storage tank is detachably equipped with a tank cover to facilitate maintenance of the liquid level detection component inside the water storage tank.

[0017] By adopting the above technical solution, this utility model has the following beneficial effects: This invention replaces the two independent water replenishment systems and control units in traditional designs by incorporating a shared water storage tank located above the cold and hot water tanks, along with a unified automatic water replenishment module. This highly integrated design significantly reduces the number of components and simplifies piping connections, thereby lowering manufacturing costs and reducing internal space requirements. Furthermore, the water replenishment operation targets the ambient temperature water storage tank, avoiding temperature shocks caused by ambient temperature replenishment water directly entering the pre-conditioned cold and hot water tanks. This effectively reduces load fluctuations and frequent start-stop cycles of the chiller and heater, improving the overall energy efficiency of the machine from its structural design.

[0018] By optimizing the liquid level detection position and the air pressure balancing pipeline, this invention effectively suppresses heat exchange and ensures water supply stability. The liquid level detection component is located at the lower end of the side wall of the water storage tank, allowing the system to maintain only a low, necessary operating water level. This reduces the thermal contact area between the water in the storage tank and the hot water tank below, significantly reducing heat loss due to heat conduction and radiation, ensuring stable cold water temperature, and improving cooling efficiency. Furthermore, the vent pipes connecting the tops of each water tank ensure air pressure balance within the system, allowing water in the storage tank to flow stably and smoothly to the cold and hot water tanks under gravity, completely avoiding water supply interruptions or unstable water flow caused by air resistance.

[0019] By employing a single control point and modular design, the system's reliability and maintainability are significantly improved. Centralizing the sensors and actuators for water replenishment control within the water storage tank greatly reduces the potential risks of leakage and electrical connection failures inherent in traditional multi-control-point solutions, thus enhancing system operational reliability. The removable top cover of the water storage tank makes the inspection, calibration, and replacement of the liquid level detection components extremely convenient, eliminating the need for large-scale disassembly of the entire unit or complex piping systems. This significantly reduces the difficulty and time cost of daily maintenance, improving product maintainability and lifespan. Attached Figure Description

[0020] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model, the accompanying drawings of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below only involve some embodiments of this utility model, and are not intended to limit this utility model.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of this utility model; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the interconnected structure of the water tanks in this utility model; Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the workflow of the water replenishment module of this utility model.

[0022] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1-Water storage tank; 11-First water outlet; 12-Second water outlet; 13-First vent; 14-Tank cover; 2-Cold water tank; 21-First water inlet; 22-Second vent; 3-Hot water tank; 31-Second water inlet; 32-Third vent; 4-Liquid level detection component; 41-Water replenishment actuator; 5-First water supply conduit; 51-First vent pipe; 6-Second water supply conduit; 61-Second vent pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0023] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The components of the embodiments of this utility model described and shown in the accompanying drawings can be arranged and designed in various different configurations. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this utility model without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0024] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0025] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used in this patent document shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this utility model pertains. The terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in this utility model patent specification and claims do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Similarly, the terms "an," "a," or "the" do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. The terms "comprising" or "including" indicate that the element or object preceding "comprising" encompasses the element or object listed following "comprising" or its equivalents, and do not exclude other elements or objects. Terms such as "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer" are used only to indicate relative positional relationships. When the absolute position of the described object changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model 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 utility model.

[0026] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; 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; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0027] Example 1: Please refer to Figures 1 to 3 This embodiment provides an intelligent water supply system for hot and cold beverage machines, aiming to achieve stable and efficient water supply through a highly integrated structural design and intelligent control, while reducing energy consumption and maintenance complexity. This system is particularly suitable for devices that require the simultaneous supply of cold and hot water, such as coffee machines and hot and cold water dispensers.

[0028] Please refer to Figures 1 to 2 The intelligent water supply system mainly includes a water storage tank 1, a cold water tank 2, a hot water tank 3, and an automatic water replenishment module. All components are organically connected through water supply pipes and vent pipes, forming a unified water supply network. The water storage tank 1 is securely installed above the cold water tank 2 and the hot water tank 3 via a support structure (e.g., a bracket or slot fixed to the internal frame of the beverage machine, not shown in the figure). The core of this high-low layout is to utilize the gravity of water to achieve gravity-fed water supply. Preferably, the bottom of the water storage tank 1 has at least two water outlets. In this embodiment, specifically two independent water outlets: a first water outlet 11 and a second water outlet 12. The first water outlet 11 and the second water outlet 12 are located at the bottom of the water storage tank 1, facilitating the supply of water to the cold water tank 2 and the hot water tank 3.

[0029] Cold water tank 2 and hot water tank 3 are arranged side by side inside the equipment. Their tops correspond to the outlet 11 of water tank 1, and they are respectively equipped with a first inlet 21 and a second inlet 31. Cold water tank 2 typically contains a semiconductor cooling chip or a compressor refrigeration system to cool the water in the tank and maintain it at a set low temperature. Hot water tank 3 contains heating elements such as electric heating tubes (not shown in the figure) to heat and keep the water in the tank warm.

[0030] The water supply conduits include a first water supply conduit 5 and a second water supply conduit 6. The upper end of the first water supply conduit 5 is connected to the first outlet 11 of the water storage tank 1, and the lower end is connected to the first inlet 21 of the cold water tank 2. The upper end of the second water supply conduit 6 is connected to the second outlet 11 of the water storage tank 1, and the lower end is connected to the second inlet 31 of the hot water tank 3. Through these conduits, the water storage tank 1, the cold water tank 2, and the hot water tank 3 are interconnected at the water level. Since the water storage tank 1 is the highest, the water inside it can naturally flow into the cold water tank 2 and the hot water tank 3 below it through the first water supply conduit 5 and the second water supply conduit 6 under its own gravity. The first water supply conduit 5 and the second water supply conduit 6 are detachably connected between the cold water tank 2 and the water storage tank 1, and between the hot water tank 3 and the water storage tank 1, respectively, for easy disassembly and cleaning.

[0031] The automatic water replenishment module is used to automatically replenish water from an external water source (such as a large-capacity water bottle) when the water level in the water storage tank 1 is lower than a preset water level. This module includes a liquid level detection component 4, a water replenishment actuator 41, and a controller. The liquid level detection component 4 is fixedly installed inside the water storage tank 1 to monitor its water level in real time. In this embodiment, the water replenishment actuator 41 includes an electric water pump and a water pipe. Its inlet end is connected to an external water source via a pipe, and its outlet end is connected to the top or upper side of the water storage tank 1 via a pipe. The liquid level detection component 4 and the water replenishment actuator 41 are connected via a signal line (or a wired / wireless communication module) to form a closed-loop control system. The controller is signal-connected to the liquid level detection component 4 and the water replenishment actuator 41 to precisely control the start and stop of the water replenishment process based on the liquid level signal.

[0032] The liquid level detection component 4 includes a liquid level sensor, which can be configured as a float-type liquid level sensor, a photoelectric liquid level sensor, or a capacitive liquid level sensor. In this embodiment, a float-type liquid level sensor is preferred, which is a float-type liquid level switch. Internally, it contains a float that rises and falls with the water level and a magnetic reed switch. When the water level drops to the low level L1, the float position triggers the reed switch to close, connecting the circuit and sending a start water replenishment signal; when the water level rises to the high level L2, the float position causes the reed switch to open, cutting off the circuit and sending a stop water replenishment signal.

[0033] Furthermore, the liquid level detection component 4 is disposed at the lower end of the side wall of the water storage tank 1. Specifically, its detection points L1 and L2 are both located in the lower half of the water storage tank 1, much lower than the total height of the water storage tank 1.

[0034] This invention places the liquid level detection component 4 on the upper water storage tank 1, and in a lower position, allowing the system to operate normally by maintaining only a lower "working water level." This significantly reduces the static storage capacity of the water in the storage tank 1. Since water has a high heat capacity, the reduction in the water volume in the storage tank means a significant decrease in its total capacity as a "thermal buffer" for heat exchange with the lower hot water tank 3 through thermal radiation and convection. This effectively isolates the heat conduction path physically, minimizing the loss of cold water from the cold water tank 2 to the hot water tank 3 through the interconnected storage tank 1, ensuring cooling efficiency and achieving energy savings.

[0035] For ease of maintenance, a detachable cover 14 is provided on the top of the water tank 1. The cover 14 is secured by a threaded or snap-fit ​​structure, and a sealing ring ensures leak-proof operation. In this embodiment, the cover 14 is secured to the top of the water tank 1 by a snap-fit ​​structure. After opening the cover 14, the interior of the water tank can be directly accessed for cleaning or maintenance of the liquid level detection component 4. This avoids the hassle of disassembling the entire water tank in traditional systems, thus improving maintainability.

[0036] In this embodiment, the float sensor contains a float and two reed switches: when the water level drops to the low level L1, the float descends, triggering the low-level reed switch to close, sending a start signal; when the water level rises to the high level L2, the float rises, triggering the high-level reed switch to open, sending a stop signal. This two-point control logic is implemented by a controller: when a low water level is detected, the controller drives the water replenishment actuator 41 to start; when a high water level is detected, the controller stops the water replenishment actuator 41. This avoids frequent start-stop of the water pump and extends the equipment lifespan.

[0037] The water replenishment actuator 41 is an electric water pump, whose inlet end is connected to an external water source (such as bottled water or municipal water supply) through a pipe, and its outlet end is connected to the water replenishment port at the upper end of the water storage tank 1. In other embodiments, the water replenishment actuator 41 can be a solenoid valve, which directly utilizes external water pressure to replenish water, but the water pump solution is more suitable for scenarios with insufficient water pressure.

[0038] To ensure a stable flow of water from storage tank 1 into cold water tank 2 and hot water tank 3, a pressure balancing pipeline is installed in the system. Storage tank 1 has a first vent 13 at its upper end, while cold water tank 2 and hot water tank 3 have second vents 22 and third vents 32 at their tops, respectively. The first vent 13 is connected to the second vent 22 and third vent 32 via a first vent pipe 51 and a second vent pipe 61, respectively. Both the first and second vent pipes are flexible hoses, and their highest points are above the maximum water level of storage tank 1 to prevent backflow. The top of the tank cover 14 has an opening to facilitate the release of air from each tank into the external environment.

[0039] When water tank 1 supplies water to cold water tank 2 or hot water tank 3, the air in each tank is interconnected through the vent pipe, maintaining consistent pressure. This eliminates air resistance and ensures smooth water flow.

[0040] Please refer to Figures 1 to 3 The intelligent water supply system in this embodiment achieves stable and efficient automatic water supply and replenishment based on its highly integrated structural design and intelligent control logic, while ensuring smooth water flow through a pressure balancing mechanism. The specific workflow is as follows: Automatic water replenishment process: After the system starts, the level detection component 4 (float-type level switch) monitors the water level of the storage tank 1 in real time. When the water level in the storage tank 1 gradually decreases due to the supply of water to the cold water tank 2 and the hot water tank 3, and falls below the first preset water level L1, the float of the level detection component 4 triggers the low-water-level reed switch to close, sending a water replenishment start signal to the controller. Upon receiving the signal, the controller immediately drives the water replenishment actuator 41 (such as an electric water pump) to start. The water replenishment actuator 41 draws water from an external water source (such as bottled water or municipal water supply) and injects the water into the water replenishment port on the top of the storage tank 1 through a pipeline.

[0041] As water replenishment proceeds, the water level in storage tank 1 rises. When the water level reaches the second preset level L2, the float of the level detection component 4 triggers the high-level reed switch to disconnect, sending a stop water replenishment signal to the controller. The controller then shuts down the water replenishment actuator 41, stopping water replenishment. This two-point control logic avoids frequent start-stop of the water pump, extends equipment life, and ensures that storage tank 1 is maintained at a lower "working water level," reducing heat exchange and energy consumption.

[0042] Water supply process to the hot and cold water tanks: The water storage tank 1 is located above the cold water tank 2 and the hot water tank 3, and uses gravity to achieve gravity-fed water supply. The first outlet 11 at the bottom of the water storage tank 1 is connected to the first inlet 21 of the cold water tank 2 through the first water supply pipe 5, and the second outlet 12 is connected to the second inlet 31 of the hot water tank 3 through the second water supply pipe 6.

[0043] When water is drawn from either the cold water tank 2 or the hot water tank 3 (e.g., by the user operating the dispensing valve of the beverage machine), the water level inside drops. Water in the storage tank 1 is automatically replenished to the cold water tank 2 and the hot water tank 3 via the corresponding water supply pipes under gravity. This process requires no additional power, is energy-efficient, and reliable.

[0044] Meanwhile, the refrigeration system (such as a semiconductor cooling chip) inside the cold water tank 2 and the heating system (such as an electric heating element) inside the hot water tank 3 respectively cool or heat the replenished water and maintain the set temperature to ensure that hot and cold beverages are available at any time.

[0045] Pressure balancing process: During water supply, to prevent water flow interruption due to air resistance, the system achieves pressure balancing through vent pipes. The vent pipes connect the first vent 13 at the top of water storage tank 1, the second vent 22 at the top of cold water tank 2, and the third vent 32 at the top of hot water tank 3. When water storage tank 1 supplies water to cold water tank 2 or hot water tank 3, the air in each tank is interconnected through the vent pipes 503, maintaining consistent pressure.

[0046] The entire workflow achieves continuous and reliable water supply through the synergistic effect of automatic water replenishment and air pressure balancing, reducing maintenance requirements. The system only needs to maintain a low water level in the storage tank 1, reducing the static water storage and thus minimizing heat exchange between the cold water tank 2 and the hot water tank 3, improving energy efficiency. In addition, the removable cover 14 on the top of the storage tank 1 facilitates cleaning and maintenance of the liquid level detection component 4, further enhancing the maintainability and service life of the system.

[0047] The above are merely specific embodiments of this utility model, but the protection scope of this utility model is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this utility model should be included within the protection scope of this utility model. Therefore, the protection scope of this utility model should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An intelligent water supply system for a hot and cold beverage machine, comprising a cold water tank and a hot water tank; characterized in that, Also includes: A water storage tank is positioned above the cold water tank and the hot water tank. The bottom of the water storage tank is connected to the top of the cold water tank and the hot water tank respectively via water supply pipes, so that the water storage tank, the cold water tank, and the hot water tank are interconnected; and An automatic water replenishment module is used to replenish water into the water storage tank. The automatic water replenishment module includes a liquid level detection component disposed on the water storage tank and a water replenishment actuator configured to be signal-connected to the liquid level detection component. The automatic water replenishment module is configured to control the water replenishment actuator to replenish water into the water storage tank when the liquid level detection component detects that the water level in the water storage tank is lower than the first preset water level.

2. The water supply system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid level detection component includes a liquid level sensor, which is disposed at the lower end of the side wall of the water storage tank to reduce the degree of heat exchange between the cold water tank and the hot water tank.

3. The water supply system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The liquid level sensor is a float-type liquid level sensor, a capacitive liquid level sensor, or a photoelectric liquid level sensor.

4. The water supply system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom of the water storage tank is provided with at least two water outlets, and the top of the cold water tank and the hot water tank are provided with water inlets corresponding to the water outlets. The water outlets and water inlets are connected by the water supply pipe.

5. The water supply system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The upper end of the water storage tank is provided with a first vent, and the top of the cold water tank and the hot water tank are respectively provided with a second vent and a third vent. The first vent is connected to the second vent and the third vent by an exhaust pipe to form a pressure balance between the water storage tank, the cold water tank and the hot water tank, so that the water in the water storage tank can flow smoothly into the cold water tank and the hot water tank.

6. The water supply system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The highest point of the exhaust pipe is higher than the highest water level line of the water storage tank.

7. The water supply system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automatic water replenishment module is configured to stop replenishing water when the liquid level detection component detects that the water level is higher than a second preset water level.

8. The water supply system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water replenishment mechanism includes a water pump connected to an external water source.

9. The water supply system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The automatic water replenishment module also includes a controller, which is signal-connected to the liquid level detection component and the water replenishment actuator, and is used to precisely control the start and stop of the water replenishment process according to the liquid level signal.

10. The water supply system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The top of the water storage tank is detachably equipped with a tank cover to facilitate maintenance of the liquid level detection component inside the water storage tank.

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