Leak detection device
The leak detection device uses a color-changing sheet to visually indicate liquid leaks in refrigerated showcases, improving detection sensitivity and absorption efficiency.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HAKUTO CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2022-05-26
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-22
Smart Images
Figure 0007863704000001 
Figure 0007863704000002 
Figure 0007863704000003
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The present invention relates to a leakage detection device, and particularly to a leakage detection device capable of detecting liquid leakage from a predetermined device.
Background Art
[0002] In retail stores and the like, predetermined devices such as refrigerated (frozen) showcases capable of displaying a plurality of products are arranged on the floor surface. From under this refrigerated showcase, liquids such as water may leak onto the floor surface due to clogging or deterioration of the drain pipe. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique of arranging a water absorption pad for absorbing the leaked water at the corner between the refrigerated showcase and the floor surface to prevent water from accumulating on the floor surface and to prevent shoppers from slipping.
Prior Art Documents
Patent Documents
[0003]
Patent Document 1
Summary of the Invention
Problems to be Solved by the Invention
[0004] However, since the water absorption pad of Patent Document 1 is configured with a color that is not easily noticeable even after absorbing water, there is a problem that it is difficult to detect (notify) liquid leakage from the refrigerated showcase by the water absorption pad.
[0005] The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a leakage detection device capable of detecting liquid leakage from a predetermined device.
Means for Solving the Problems
[0006] To achieve this objective, the leak detection device of the present invention is positioned in front of a predetermined piece of equipment placed on a floor surface and comprises: an absorption unit that absorbs liquid from the floor surface; an absorbent body positioned away from the floor surface that absorbs liquid from the absorption unit; and a detection unit that changes in appearance in response to the absorption of liquid by the absorption unit or the absorbent body, thereby detecting the occurrence of liquid leakage from the predetermined piece of equipment. Examples of "changes in appearance" of the detection unit include changes in the color, pattern, size, and position of the detection unit. [Effects of the Invention]
[0007] According to the leak detection device described in claim 1, when liquid leaks from a predetermined device onto the floor, the liquid is absorbed by the suction unit and then absorbed by the absorbent material. As the liquid is absorbed by the suction unit or absorbent material, the appearance of the detection unit changes, allowing the detection unit to detect (notify) the occurrence of a liquid leak from the predetermined device.
[0008] The leak detection device according to claim 2 provides the following effects in addition to those of the leak detection device according to claim 1. The detection unit includes a color-changing sheet that is placed on top of the absorption unit. The color-changing sheet, which is positioned to be visible from the outside, changes color when it absorbs liquid from the absorption unit. This makes it easy to detect liquid leaks in a given device by the color of the color-changing sheet. In particular, since the liquid itself, which is the target of detection, can be detected by the color-changing sheet, rather than by the temperature of the liquid or the rise in humidity associated with the leak, the sensitivity of liquid leak detection can be improved.
[0009] The leak detection device according to claim 3 provides the following effects in addition to the effects of the leak detection device according to claim 2. The absorption section comprises a first sheet. The first end of the first sheet is in contact with the floor surface, and the second end of the first sheet, which is the end opposite to the first end, is connected to the absorbent. The part of the first sheet other than the second end is not in contact with the absorbent. As a result, the liquid absorbed from the first end diffuses through the first sheet toward the second end, and when the liquid reaches the second end, it moves toward the absorbent. A color-changing sheet is placed on top of the first sheet along the path of the liquid toward the absorbent. As a result, the color of the color-changing sheet can be changed before the absorbent absorbs the liquid, making it easier to detect liquid leaks using the color-changing sheet.
[0010] Furthermore, after detecting a leak, the absorbent material, which has a larger maximum absorption capacity than the absorbent part, absorbs the liquid. This makes it less likely for liquid to accumulate on the floor until staff notice the change in color of the discoloration sheet (indicating a leak) or until the leak is repaired.
[0011] The leak detection device according to claim 4 provides the following effects in addition to the effects of the leak detection device according to claim 3. The first sheet is provided with a suction section that draws liquid upward from the first end to the second end. Due to the effect of gravity, liquid is often drawn upward after diffusing in the left-right direction within the suction section. However, since the suction section is divided into multiple sections in the left-right direction, when liquid is drawn up by a predetermined suction section, it is difficult for the liquid to diffuse to adjacent suction sections in the left-right direction. As a result, the liquid can be drawn up quickly by the suction section.
[0012] The leak detection device according to claim 5 provides the following effects in addition to the effects of the leak detection device according to claim 3 or 4: The suction section includes a second sheet. The lower surface of the second sheet is in surface contact with the floor surface, and the upper surface of the second sheet is in surface contact with the absorbent side. This allows the liquid absorbed from the lower surface by the second sheet to be quickly transferred from the upper surface to the absorbent, making it less likely for the liquid to spread on the floor surface.
[0013] Furthermore, the second sheet is not in contact with any part of the first sheet except for its second end. This prevents the liquid absorbed from the first end of the first sheet from being absorbed into the absorbent material via the second sheet before the color of the color-changing sheet changes due to the absorbed liquid. As a result, it is possible to achieve both liquid leakage detection by the first sheet and the color-changing sheet, and rapid liquid absorption by the second sheet.
[0014] Furthermore, "the upper surface of the second sheet is in surface contact with the absorbent" means not only when the upper surface of the second sheet is in direct contact with the absorbent, but also when the first sheet is sandwiched between the absorbent and the second sheet.
[0015] The leak detection device according to claim 6 provides the following effects in addition to the effects of the leak detection device according to claim 5: The first end of the first sheet is located behind the second sheet. This makes it easier for the first end of the first sheet to absorb liquid leaked from a predetermined device on the rear side, and allows the second sheet to absorb any liquid that tries to spread forward because the first end cannot absorb it in time. As a result, the detection sensitivity of liquid leaks by the first sheet and the discoloration sheet is improved, while the second sheet makes it more difficult for the liquid to spread further onto the floor.
[0016] The leak detection device according to claim 7 provides the following effects in addition to those of the leak detection device according to claim 5: A portion of the second sheet is exposed on both the left and right sides of the case in which the absorbent is housed. By arranging multiple leak detection devices in a left-right direction so that these exposed portions are in contact with each other, liquid absorbed by some leak detection devices can be transferred to other leak detection devices. In this case, since the amount of liquid absorbed exceeds the maximum amount absorbed by a single leak detection device, the liquid is less likely to spread to the floor surface. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0017] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a leak detection device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a disassembled perspective view of a leak detection device. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of the frame. [Figure 4] It is a perspective view of the lower panel. [Figure 5] It is a bottom view of the leakage detection device. [Figure 6] It is a cross-sectional view of the leakage detection device taken along line VI-VI of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the leakage detection device taken along line VII-VII of FIG. 5. [Figure 8] It is a perspective view of the leakage detection device in the second embodiment. [Figure 9] It is an exploded perspective view of the leakage detection device. [Figure 10] It is a cross-sectional view of the leakage detection device. [Figure 11] It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the leakage detection device taken along line XI-XI of FIG. 10. [Figure 12] It is a cross-sectional view of the leakage detection device in the third embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a cross-sectional view of the leakage detection device in the fourth embodiment.
Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
[0018] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a leakage detection device 10 in the first embodiment. In each drawing, the direction of arrow U is the upward direction of the leakage detection device 10, and similarly, the direction of arrow D is the downward direction, the direction of arrow F is the forward direction, the direction of arrow B is the backward direction, the direction of arrow L is the left direction, and the direction of arrow R is the right direction.
[0019] The leakage detection device 10 is for detecting (notifying) water leakage from a cooling device 4 placed on the floor surface 2 and absorbing the leaked water. The cooling device 4 is a refrigerated showcase or a frozen showcase capable of displaying a plurality of products, and is arranged in a retail store or the like.
[0020] Other examples of cooling devices 4 include household and commercial refrigerators and freezers. Furthermore, the leak detection device 10 is not limited to detecting water leaks from cooling devices 4, but may also detect water leaks from designated equipment such as washbasins and sinks. In addition, the leak detection device 10 may also detect leaks of liquids other than water. These are also the same in the second to fourth embodiments described later.
[0021] The leak detection device 10 is positioned at the corner between the floor surface 2 and the cooling device 4, in front of the cooling device 4. The leak detection device 10 is formed in a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape, extending left and right along that corner. The leak detection device 10 mainly comprises a bottom panel 12 placed on the floor surface 2, a frame 14 rising from the outer edge of the bottom panel 12, and a cover 16 superimposed on the frame 14. The bottom panel 12 is a plate made of metal or synthetic resin and constitutes the bottom part (lower side) of the leak detection device 10.
[0022] The frame 14 is a component made of metal or synthetic resin and comprises a rear panel 14a that constitutes the rear portion (rear side) of the leak detection device 10 on the cooling device 4 side, and side panels 14b that constitute the side portions (longitudinal ends, left and right sides) of the leak detection device 10. The side panels 14b have multiple ventilation holes 14c for ensuring ventilation of the internal space of the frame 14, multiple fixing holes 14d for fixing the bottom panel 12, and multiple fixing holes 14e for fixing the cover 16 formed through them.
[0023] The cover 16 is a plate material that constitutes the front and top portions of the leak detection device 10, opposite to the cooling device 4. The cover 16 is made of a colorless, transparent or translucent material (for example, synthetic resin). The corners between the front and top portions of the leak detection device 10 (cover 16) are smoothly curved. The front portion of the leak detection device 10 (cover 16) is inclined to protrude forward towards the lower edge so that it can be easily seen from above.
[0024] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the leak detection device 10 with the cover 16 removed from the frame 14. Multiple claws 16a protrude from the side edge (longitudinal edge) of the cover 16, which fit into the fixing holes 14e. The cover 16 is fixed to the frame 14 by the claws 16a fitting into the fixing holes 14e.
[0025] The frame 14 includes a plate-shaped upper inner plate 14f and a front inner plate 14g that connect the upper and front sides of the left and right side panels 14b. The cover 16 is placed on top of these upper inner plate 14f and front inner plate 14g. Between the upper inner plate 14f and front inner plate 14g and the cover 16, the first sheet 18 and the discoloration sheet 20 are sandwiched in order toward the cover 16.
[0026] The first sheet 18 is a sheet that absorbs water leaking from the cooling device 4 onto the floor surface 2. The first sheet 18 is made of a highly absorbent material (for example, foamed synthetic resin or cotton fibers) and absorbs water by means of capillary action, for example. Two first sheets 18 are provided side by side in the left-right direction.
[0027] The color-changing sheet 20 is a sheet that changes color by absorbing some of the water absorbed by the first sheet 18. Since the cover 16 that covers the color-changing sheet 20 is colorless, transparent or semi-transparent, the color-changing sheet 20 can be seen from the outside. The leak detection device 10 detects (notifies) a water leak in the cooling device 4 by the color change of this color-changing sheet 20. Store employees and others can easily find out about the water leak in the cooling device 4 by checking this color change.
[0028] The color-changing sheet 20 changes color from, for example, a light pink when dry to a dark pink when it absorbs water. The color of these color-changing sheets 20 may be changed as needed. Furthermore, the pattern of the color-changing sheet 20 may also be changed by water absorption.
[0029] Figure 3 is a perspective view of frame 14. Frame 14 is formed in a box shape with an open bottom. The upper inner plate 14f is provided with a plurality of through holes 14h arranged in the front-to-back and left-to-right directions over almost its entire surface, and the upper inner plate 14f is formed in a grid pattern.
[0030] In the rear panel 14a located behind the multiple through holes 14h, four slits 14i that penetrate vertically and extend horizontally are arranged at equal intervals horizontally, forming a hollow structure in the rear panel 14a.
[0031] The front inner panel 14g is provided with multiple through holes 14j arranged horizontally across almost its entire surface, forming a grid pattern on the front inner panel 14g. Below the multiple through holes 14j, the front inner panel 14g is provided with two slits 14k that penetrate in the front-to-back direction and extend horizontally, arranged at equal intervals on the left and right sides.
[0032] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, a portion of the first sheet 18, which is placed on top of the upper inner plate 14f and the front inner plate 14g, is inserted into the slits 14i and 14k, thereby wrapping the first sheet 18 around the frame 14. In addition, to position the two first sheets 18, ribs 14m are formed at the center and both ends in the left-right direction of the upper inner plate 14f and the front inner plate 14g, respectively, and slits 14k are separated on both sides of the ribs 14m.
[0033] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the bottom panel 12. The bottom panel 12 is a component that covers the opening on the bottom surface of the frame 14. Multiple claws 12a protrude upward from both sides in the left-right direction of the bottom panel 12. The bottom panel 12 is fixed to the frame 14 by fitting these claws 12a into the fixing holes 14d of the frame 14.
[0034] Two ribs 12b extending in the left-right direction protrude from the upper surface of the lower panel 12. These ribs 12b are located near the front and rear edges of the lower panel 12. By being positioned inside the rear panel 14a and front inner plate 14g of the frame 14, the ribs 12b position the frame 14 in the front-rear direction relative to the lower panel 12.
[0035] The lower panel 12 has multiple slits 12c arranged horizontally, extending vertically and horizontally, within a portion surrounded by multiple claws 12a and two ribs 12b. A long, strip-shaped second sheet 22 is passed through these multiple slits 12c. The second sheet 22 is formed from the same material as the first sheet 18.
[0036] The second sheet 22 is arranged alternately on the upper and lower surfaces of the lower panel 12 by passing through multiple slits 12c. Therefore, when the lower panel 12 is placed on the floor surface 2, a portion of the second sheet 22 is sandwiched between the lower panel 12 and the floor surface 2, allowing the second sheet 22 to absorb water from the floor surface 2 from its lower surface.
[0037] Since the second sheet 22 is about 1 mm thick, a gap of about 1 mm is created between the bottom panel 12 and the floor surface 2 in the area where the second sheet 22 is not present. However, depending on the wettability of the floor surface 2, the height of water that leaks onto the floor surface 2 is about 2 mm, so the water tends to spread within the smaller gap of about 1 mm. This spread water is absorbed by the second sheet 22, so even if there is a gap between the bottom panel 12 and the floor surface 2, it is possible to suppress water from leaking through that gap to the front of the leak detection device 10.
[0038] Figure 5 is a bottom view of the leak detection device 10. Magnets 24 are attached to both the left and right sides of the rear surface of the rear panel 14a for fixing the leak detection device 10 to the cooling device 4. Alternatively, the leak detection device 10 may be fixed to the cooling device 4 with adhesive or adhesive tape instead of the magnets 24, or with screws or rivets.
[0039] The rear edge of the bottom panel 12 aligns with the front edge of the slit 14i in the rear panel 14a, and the slit 14i opens to the bottom surface of the leak detection device 10. As a result, the first sheet 18, which is superimposed on the top inner plate 14f, protrudes through the slit 14i of the rear panel 14a to the bottom surface of the leak detection device 10.
[0040] The first end 18a of the first sheet 18, which emerges from the slit 14i, is sandwiched between the bottom panel 12 and the floor surface 2. It is preferable to attach the first end 18a to the bottom surface of the bottom panel 12 with an adhesive or similar. Furthermore, the first end 18a side (the suction portion 18c described later) of each of the two first sheets 18 is split into two so that they can be inserted into the two slits 14i that are aligned in the left-right direction.
[0041] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the leak detection device 10 along the line VI-VI in Figure 5. The second end 18b of the first sheet 18, opposite to the first end 18a, is inserted through a slit 14k in the front inner plate 14g into the internal space enclosed by the frame 14 and the bottom panel 12.
[0042] An approximately rectangular sponge (absorbent) 26 that absorbs water is placed in the internal space enclosed by the frame 14 and the bottom panel 12. The sponge 26 is made of a highly absorbent material and absorbs water, for example, by capillary action. The sponge 26 may or may not expand upon water absorption. If the sponge 26 expands, it is preferable that the volume of the sponge 26 be less than or equal to half the volume of the internal space in which it is housed. Furthermore, the maximum amount of water absorbed by the sponge 26 is sufficiently greater than the maximum amount of water absorbed by the first sheet 18 and the second sheet 22.
[0043] Figure 7 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the leak detection device 10 along the line VII-VII in Figure 5. The sponge 26 is positioned on the bottom panel 12 with a portion of the second sheet 22 sandwiched between them. This allows the water absorbed by the second sheet 22 from the floor surface 2 to be transferred to the sponge 26. The sponge 26 is also positioned over approximately the entire length in the left-right direction of the internal space enclosed by the frame 14 and the bottom panel 12.
[0044] As shown in Figure 6, the second end 18b of the first sheet 18 is further sandwiched between the second sheet 22 and the sponge 26, so that the first sheet 18 is connected to the sponge 26. This allows the water absorbed by the first sheet 18 from the floor surface 2 to be transferred to the sponge 26.
[0045] It is preferable that the water absorption capacity of the sponge 26 is higher than that of the first sheet 18 and the second sheet 22. This allows the water absorbed by the first sheet 18 and the second sheet 22 to be quickly transferred to the sponge 26, thereby increasing the rate at which the first sheet 18 and the second sheet 22 absorb water from the floor surface 2.
[0046] The first sheet 18 is provided with a suction portion 18c that extends upward from the first end 18a toward the second end 18b and passes through the slit 14i. The suction portion 18c is the part that draws up the water absorbed at the first end 18a and sends it toward the second end 18b. Due to the effect of gravity, the water often diffuses laterally within the suction portion 18c before being drawn upward.
[0047] However, since the suction portion 18c of a single first sheet 18 is divided into two in the left-right direction, when water is drawn up by one of the two adjacent suction portions 18c, it is difficult for the water to spread to the other suction portion 18c. As a result, water can be drawn up quickly by the suction portion 18c.
[0048] The water drawn up by the suction portion 18c further diffuses within the first sheet 18, passes through the slit 14k between the cover 16 and the upper inner plate 14f and the front inner plate 14g, reaches the second end portion 18b, and then moves from the second end portion 18b to the sponge 26. Since the first sheet 18 is not in contact with the sponge 26 except for the second end portion 18b, it is difficult for water to move from the first sheet 18 to the sponge 26 along this path.
[0049] Furthermore, the color-changing sheet 20 is placed on the first sheet 18, which is located in the middle of the water path leading to the sponge 26, between the cover 16 and the upper inner plate 14f and the front inner plate 14g. This allows the color of the color-changing sheet 20 to change before the water leaking from the cooling device 4 onto the floor surface 2 is absorbed by the sponge 26 via the first sheet 18.
[0050] In addition, since the discoloration sheet 20 continues to absorb water from the first sheet 18 even while water is continuously leaking from the cooling device 4, the discoloration sheet 20 can maintain its color change. In this way, the leak detection device 10 can easily detect water leakage from the cooling device 4 by observing the color change of the discoloration sheet 20.
[0051] After (or during) the detection of this water leak, the sponge 26, which has a larger maximum water absorption capacity than the first sheet 18 and the second sheet 22, absorbs the water, making it less likely for water to accumulate on the floor surface 2 until a store employee notices the change in color of the discoloration sheet 20 (water leak), or until the water leak is fixed by maintenance of the cooling device 4.
[0052] Furthermore, by utilizing the change in appearance, specifically the color change of the color-changing sheet 20 in response to water absorption, the configuration of the leak detection device 10 can be simplified and the cost of the leak detection device 10 can be reduced compared to cases where water leaks are detected electrically using sensors or the like. Moreover, since the water itself, which is the target of detection, can be detected by the color-changing sheet 20, rather than by the water temperature or the increase in humidity associated with water leaks, the sensitivity of water leak detection can be improved.
[0053] Since the first end 18a of the first sheet 18 is located behind the second sheet 22 (towards the cooling device 4), water leaking from the cooling device 4 on the rear side can be more easily absorbed by the first end 18a of the first sheet 18. As a result, it is possible to prevent the leaked water from being absorbed by the second sheet 22 first, preventing the first sheet 18 from absorbing water and thus preventing the discoloration sheet 20, which is layered on top of the first sheet 18, from being unable to absorb water.
[0054] Furthermore, since the second sheet 22 is not in contact with any part of the first sheet 18 except for the second end 18b (sponge 26 side), it is possible to suppress the absorption of water absorbed from the first end 18a into the sponge 26 via the second sheet 22 before the discoloration sheet 20 changes color. As a result, when water leaks from the cooling device 4, the discoloration sheet 20 changes color, making it easier to detect the leak, and the sensitivity of water leak detection by the first sheet 18 and the discoloration sheet 20 can be improved.
[0055] Furthermore, if the amount of water leaking from the cooling device 4 is small, the leaked water can be absorbed by the first sheet 18 alone. On the other hand, if the amount of water leaking from the cooling device 4 is large and the first sheet 18 cannot absorb it in time, causing the water to spread forward beyond the first end 18a, the water can be absorbed by the sponge 26 via the second sheet 22. This second sheet 22 makes it difficult for the leaked water to spread onto the floor surface 2.
[0056] In particular, the second sheet 22 has its lower surface in surface contact with the floor surface 2 and its upper surface in surface contact with the sponge 26, so the second sheet 22 can quickly transfer water from the floor surface 2 to the sponge 26. In this embodiment, since the second sheet 22 is arranged alternately above and below the lower panel 12, it is sufficient for the second sheet 22 to absorb water only a distance about the thickness of the lower panel 12. Therefore, the second sheet 22 can quickly transfer water to the sponge 26, making it less likely for water leaking from the cooling device 4 to spread further onto the floor surface 2. As a result, it is possible to achieve both water leakage detection by the first sheet 18 and the discoloration sheet 20 and rapid liquid absorption by the second sheet 22.
[0057] It is preferable to adjust the dimensions between the cover 16 and the frame 14 (top inner plate 14f and front inner plate 14g) in which the first sheet 18 and the discoloration sheet 20 are sandwiched so that they are in close contact and the water on the first sheet 18 is reliably absorbed by the discoloration sheet 20. Specifically, it is preferable to make the gap between the cover 16 and the frame 14 narrower than the combined thickness of the first sheet 18 and the discoloration sheet 20 before elastic deformation so that the first sheet 18 elastically deforms in the thickness direction.
[0058] Alternatively, a projection may be provided on a part of the cover 16 that protrudes toward the frame 14, and this projection may be used to press the discoloration sheet 20 against the first sheet 18. Furthermore, the discoloration sheet 20 may be bonded to the first sheet 18.
[0059] The first sheet 18 and the second sheet 22 may be partially bonded to the sponge 26 to ensure that water is reliably transferred from the first sheet 18 and the second sheet 22 to the sponge 26. Alternatively, the sponge 26 may be made larger to prevent it from moving within the internal space enclosed by the frame 14 and the bottom panel 12. For example, the dimensions of the sponge 26 may be set such that part or all of the sponge 26 undergoes elastic deformation (compression) between the frame 14 and the bottom panel 12.
[0060] The space between the rear edge of the cover 16 and the rear panel 14a of the frame 14 is open to the outside along its entire length in the left-right direction, and a portion of the first sheet 18 is exposed to the outside. This makes it easier for the first sheet 18 to absorb water that leaks from the cooling device 4 and falls onto the cover 16. It also makes it easier to dry the first sheet 18 after the water leak from the cooling device 4 has been resolved.
[0061] The ventilation holes 14c in the side panel 14b are for facilitating the drying of the sponge 26 and the second sheet 22. The through holes 14h and 14j are for facilitating the drying of the first sheet 18 and the discoloration sheet 20 through the ventilation holes 14c.
[0062] Furthermore, the lower panel 12, frame 14, and cover 16 are fixed only by the fitting of fixing holes 14d, 14e and claws 12a, 16a, and there are no screws or other fasteners, so the fixing can be easily released. By disassembling the leak detection device 10 in this way, the first sheet 18 and sponge 26 can be dried more easily.
[0063] After the water leak is resolved, drying the first sheet 18, the second sheet 22, the discoloration sheet 20, and the sponge 26 allows the leak detection device 10 to once again detect water leaks and absorb leaked water. Therefore, the leak detection device 10 can be used repeatedly.
[0064] Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 8 to 11. In the first embodiment, a case was described in which the rear and side portions of the leak detection device 10 are formed by a frame 14. In contrast, in the second embodiment, a case will be described in which the rear and side portions of the leak detection device 30 are formed by a cover 36. Note that parts identical to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted below.
[0065] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the leak detection device 30 in the second embodiment. Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of the leak detection device 30. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the leak detection device 30. Figure 11 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the leak detection device 30 along the line XI-XI in Figure 10. Note that Figure 10 shows a cross-section of the leak detection device 30 approximately in the center in the left-right direction, and the cross-section is perpendicular to the left-right direction.
[0066] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the leak detection device 30 comprises a bottom panel 32 placed on the floor surface 2, a frame 34 positioned above the bottom panel 32, a cover 36 superimposed on the frame 34, a first sheet 18 wrapped around the frame 34, a discoloration sheet 20 superimposed on the first sheet 18, a second sheet 22 attached to the bottom panel 32, and a sponge 26 that absorbs water from the first sheet 18 and the second sheet 22.
[0067] The bottom panel 32, frame 34, and cover 36 constitute a case for housing the sponge 26. In addition, in the second embodiment, the first sheet 18 is divided into four sections in the left-right direction, not just the suction portion 18c.
[0068] The lower panel 32 is a plate made of metal or synthetic resin and constitutes the lower part (bottom) of the roughly rectangular leak detection device 30. Two ribs 32a are provided along the left and right edges, and one rib 12b is provided along the front edge, protruding from the upper surface of the lower panel 32. The front ends of the two ribs 32a are connected by the rib 12b.
[0069] Short ribs 32b protrude slightly inward in the left-right direction from the rear ends of the two ribs 32a. These short ribs 32b ensure the rigidity of the ribs 32a. In addition, the rear edge of the lower panel 32 is notched out along the left-right direction and recessed forward between the short ribs 32b on both sides. The first sheet 18 passes through this recess, and the first end 18a of the first sheet 18 protrudes below the lower panel 32.
[0070] As shown in Figure 11, the lower panel 32 in the area enclosed by the ribs 12b and 32a has multiple slits 12c that penetrate vertically and extend in the front-to-back direction, arranged horizontally. The second sheet 22 is passed through these multiple slits 12c, so that the second sheet 22 is arranged alternately on the upper and lower surfaces of the lower panel 32.
[0071] The left and right ends of the second sheet 22 protrude from the outermost slit 12c in the left-right direction to the underside of the bottom panel 32. Furthermore, these left and right ends are folded back at the left and right edges of the bottom panel 32 and inserted into slits 32c provided at the lower end of the rib 32a. Since pins 32d protrude from the upper surface of the bottom panel 32 inward from the slits 32c in the left-right direction, the second sheet 22 is fixed to the bottom panel 32 by inserting these pins 32d into the left and right ends of the second sheet 22.
[0072] Furthermore, the folding of the second sheet 22 at both the left and right edges exposes a portion of the second sheet 22 on both sides of the bottom panel 32 (case). By arranging multiple leak detection devices 30 in a left-right direction so that these exposed portions come into contact with each other, the sponges 26 of these multiple leak detection devices 30 are connected via the second sheet 22 and the first sheet 18. This allows water absorbed by some leak detection devices 30 (for example, the right side in Figure 11) to be transferred to other leak detection devices 30 (for example, the left side in Figure 11). In this case, water can be absorbed in excess of the maximum amount absorbed by a single leak detection device 30, making it less likely for water to spread on the floor surface 2.
[0073] As shown in Figures 8 and 10, the cover 36 is a rectangular parallelepiped member made of a white, translucent material (for example, synthetic resin). The cover 36 comprises side panels 36a that constitute the side portions of the leak detection device 30, a rear panel 36b that constitutes the rear portion of the leak detection device 30, a top panel 36c that constitutes the top portion of the leak detection device 30, and a front panel 36d that constitutes the front portion of the leak detection device 30.
[0074] The side panels 36a are rectangular plates perpendicular to the left-right direction and are provided in pairs. The rear edges of the pair of side panels 36a are connected perpendicularly by the rear panel 36b, the upper edges are connected perpendicularly by the top panel 36c, and the front edges are connected perpendicularly by the front panel 36d. In addition, the upper edge of the rear panel 36b and the upper edge of the front panel 36d are connected by the top panel 36c.
[0075] In this way, the cover 36 is formed into a box shape with an open bottom by the panels 36a to 36d. The bottom panel 32 is assembled to the cover 36 so as to close this opening on the bottom. The ribs 12b, 32a and short ribs 32b of the bottom panel 32 are located inside each of the panels 36a, 36b, and 36d, respectively, so that the cover 36 is positioned relative to the bottom panel 32 in the front, back, left, and right directions. In addition, a portion of the lower edge of the side panel 36a is cut out to avoid the second sheet 22 which is folded back at both the left and right edges of the bottom panel 32.
[0076] Furthermore, countersunk holes 36e and screw holes 32e are provided in the overlapping portions of the side panel 36a and the rib 32a, respectively, which communicate with each other. Two countersunk holes 36e are provided on both the front and rear sides of the notch at the lower edge of the side panel 36a. Two screw holes 32e are provided on the rib 32a, spaced apart in the front-to-back direction. The heads of countersunk screws (not shown) are fitted into the countersunk holes 36e, and the shafts of the countersunk screws are fastened into the screw holes 32e.
[0077] The cover 36 is secured to the bottom panel 32 by these countersunk screws. By removing the countersunk screws, the fixation is released, allowing the leak detection device 30 to be disassembled and the internal sponge 26 and other components to be dried. Furthermore, because countersunk screws are used to secure both components, it is difficult for anyone other than the administrator, such as a customer, to disassemble the leak detection device 30. In addition, although the sponge 26 becomes heavier due to water absorption, the screw fastening makes it difficult for the bottom panel 32 to detach from the cover 36 when the leak detection device 30 is lifted.
[0078] A pair of guide ribs 36g protrude from the rear surface of the rear panel 36b. The guide ribs 36g are straight sections extending in the vertical direction and serve as guides for attaching the magnets 24 to the rear panel 36b. In other words, the guide ribs 36g allow for uniform mounting positions of the magnets 24 to the rear panel 36b.
[0079] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the frame 34 is a member for aligning the first sheet 18 with the inside of the cover 36. The frame 34 comprises a rear inner plate 34a that follows the rear panel 36b, an upper inner plate 34b that follows the upper panel 36c, a front inner plate 34c that follows the front panel 36d, and a pair of edge portions 34d provided on the left and right edges of each of these inner plates 34a to 34c.
[0080] The rear inner plate 34a is formed in a grid pattern with multiple through holes 34e arranged horizontally across substantially the entire front surface. The upper inner plate 34b is formed in a grid pattern with multiple through holes 34f arranged horizontally and horizontally across substantially the entire front surface. The front inner plate 34c is formed in a grid pattern with multiple through holes 34g arranged horizontally across substantially the entire front surface. Note that the rear inner plate 34a and the front inner plate 34c are formed perpendicular to the upper inner plate 34b, and the through holes 34e and 34g are not arranged vertically, so the frame 34 can be easily manufactured by vertical mold division.
[0081] The edge portion 34d is a part that causes both the left and right edges of each inner plate 34a to 34c to protrude outward in the thickness direction (towards the cover 36). When this edge portion 34d contacts the inside of the cover 36, a gap is formed between each inner plate 34a to 34c and the cover 36 for positioning the first sheet 18 and the discoloration sheet 20.
[0082] The frame 34 is fixed to the cover 36 by fitting the mounting projection 36f, which protrudes from the lower surface of the upper panel 36c of the cover 36, into the mounting hole 34h formed through the upper part of the edge 34d. By making the shape and dimensions of the mounting projection 36f and the mounting hole 34h different on the left and right or front and back sides, the number of errors in assembling the cover 36 to the frame 34 can be reduced. Alternatively, the mounting projection 36f may be provided on the frame 34 and the mounting hole 34h may be provided on the cover 36. Furthermore, the mounting hole 34h may be a recessed hole with a bottom.
[0083] Since the frame 34 is floating above the bottom panel 32, it is preferable to heat and join the area near the mounting projection 36f to prevent the frame 34 from falling downward from the cover 36. For example, a specific example is to heat and pressurize the tip of the mounting projection 36f that protrudes from the mounting hole 34h to flatten it into a flange shape, thereby making it difficult for the mounting projection 36f to come out of the mounting hole 34h. However, this joining near the mounting projection 36f may be omitted.
[0084] The lift of the frame 34 from the bottom panel 32 allows the second end 18b of the first sheet 18, which is wrapped around the outside of the frame 34, to pass between the lower edge of the front inner plate 34c and the bottom panel 32 and enter the inside of the frame 34. Similar to the first embodiment, this second end 18b is sandwiched between the sponge 26 and the bottom panel 32.
[0085] Three protrusions 34i, equally spaced in the left-right direction, protrude from the upper surface of the upper inner plate 34b. Since these protrusions 34i are positioned between the four divided first sheet 18, the divided first sheet 18 is less likely to come into contact with each other. Furthermore, pins 34j protrude from the lower edge of the front inner plate 34c, which are inserted into each of the four divided first sheet 18. These pins 34j also allow the divided first sheet 18 to be positioned, making it less likely for them to come into contact with each other.
[0086] By making it difficult for the suction portions 18c of the first sheet 18 to come into contact with each other, the water drawn up by one suction portion 18c is less likely to diffuse to the other suction portions 18c. As a result, water can be drawn up quickly by the suction portions 18c.
[0087] Furthermore, since the first sheet 18 hardens once it has been wet and dried, it is preferable to dry the wet first sheet 18 while it is still wrapped around the frame 34. The through holes 34e to 34g in each inner plate 34a to 34c make it easier to dry the wet first sheet 18 while it is still wrapped around the frame 34.
[0088] Furthermore, the fixing of the frame 34 to the cover 36 and the pin 34j make it easy to maintain the state in which the first sheet 18 is wrapped around the frame 34 even when the bottom panel 32 or sponge 26 is removed. This makes it easier to dry the wet first sheet 18 while it is still wrapped around the frame 34.
[0089] According to the leak detection device 30 described above, similar to the first embodiment, the first sheet 18, the second sheet 22, and the sponge 26 absorb the water leaked from the cooling device 4 onto the floor surface 2, and the water leak can be easily detected by the color change of the color-changing sheet 20 placed on top of the first sheet 18. Furthermore, since the cover 36 is made of a white, semi-transparent material, the change in the color-changing sheet 20 from a light color when dry to a dark color when water is absorbed can be emphasized.
[0090] Although the discoloration sheet 20, which changes color upon detecting a water leak, generally returns to its original color when dry, the color of the edges may not return to normal. Therefore, the leak detection device 30 is provided with an opaque section 38 so that the edges of the discoloration sheet 20 are not easily visible from the outside through the cover 36. Specifically, in this embodiment, the opaque section 38 is formed by providing an opaque white paint layer on the outer surface near the left and right edges of the top panel 36c and the front panel 36d.
[0091] Furthermore, the edge portion of the discoloration sheet 20 on the first end 18a side can be sandwiched between the rear panel 36b and the rear inner plate 34a, making it difficult to see from above or the front through the cover 36. The edge portion of the discoloration sheet 20 on the second end 18b side can be bent inward and inserted into the pin 34j on the lower edge of the front inner plate 34c, making it difficult to see through the cover 36. As a result, the appearance of the discoloration sheet 20 visible from the outside through the cover 36 can be improved.
[0092] Unlike the side panel 14b of the first embodiment, the side panel 36a of the second embodiment does not have ventilation holes 14c formed therein. In addition, because the cover 36 is semi-transparent, the sponge 26 is hardly visible from the outside of the leak detection device 30. This makes the color of the sponge 26 less noticeable, improving the appearance of the leak detection device 30.
[0093] Next, a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 12(a) and 12(b). In the first and second embodiments, a case in which water leakage is detected by changing the color of the color-changing sheet 20 was described. In contrast, in the third embodiment, a case in which water leakage is detected by pressing a colored sheet 48 onto a translucent cover 42 will be described. Note that parts identical to those in the first and second embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted below.
[0094] Figures 12(a) and 12(b) are cross-sectional views of the leak detection device 40 in the third embodiment. Figures 12(a) and 12(b) show a cross-section of the leak detection device 40 approximately in the center in the left-right direction, and a cross-section perpendicular to the left-right direction. Figure 12(a) shows the sponge 44 in a dry state, and Figure 12(b) shows the sponge 44 in an expanded state due to water absorption.
[0095] As shown in Figure 12(a), the leak detection device 40 comprises a bottom panel 41 placed on the floor surface 2, a cover 42 covering the top of the bottom panel 41, a second sheet 22 attached to the bottom panel 41, a sponge 44 that absorbs water from the second sheet 22, an elastic body 46 placed between the sponge 44 and the cover 42, and a colored sheet 48 that is placed on the cover 42 side of the elastic body 46.
[0096] The lower panel 41 is constructed identically to the lower panel 32 in the second embodiment, except that it lacks a recess at the rear edge and, instead of the short rib 32b, a rib 12b is formed along the rear edge connecting the rear ends of the left and right ribs 32a. Note that in Figures 12(a) and 12(b), the ribs 32a and slits 32c of the lower panel 41 are omitted from the illustration. The same omissions apply to Figures 13(a) and 13(b).
[0097] The cover 42 is a component formed from a white, translucent material (e.g., synthetic resin). The cover 42 is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape that is convex upward when viewed from the left to right, and the opening on the bottom surface is closed by the bottom panel 41. The cover 42 is provided with semicircular side panels 42a that close both ends in the axial direction (left to right). Although not shown in the figures, the cover 42 and the bottom panel 41 are fixed together by screws, similar to the second embodiment.
[0098] A sponge 44 is housed inside the case formed by the cover 42 and the bottom panel 41. The sponge 44 is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape that is convex upward when viewed from side to side, and expands upon water absorption. The radius of the dry sponge 44 is smaller than the radius of the inner surface of the cover 42. The sponge 44 is placed on the second sheet 22 and absorbs water from the floor surface 2 through this second sheet 22. Furthermore, the maximum amount of water absorbed by the sponge 44 is sufficiently greater than the maximum amount of water absorbed by the second sheet 22.
[0099] The elastic body 46 is a member formed in a semi-cylindrical shape that is convex upward when viewed from the left to right, and is made of rubber, foamed molded material (sponge), etc. A colored sheet 48 is attached to the outer surface of this elastic body 46 by adhesive or other means.
[0100] The colored sheet 48 is a sheet of a color other than white (for example, dark pink). In the dry state of the sponge 44 shown in Figure 12(a), the sponge 44, the elastic body 46, and the colored sheet 48 are separated, and the colored sheet 48 is separated from the cover 42. Therefore, it is difficult to see the color of the colored sheet 48 from the outside through the white translucent cover 42.
[0101] As shown in Figure 12(b), when the sponge 44 absorbs water and expands, the sponge 44 pushes up the elastic body 46 and the colored sheet 48, causing the colored sheet 48 to adhere tightly to the cover 42. This makes the color of the colored sheet 48 easily visible from the outside through the cover 42. Therefore, water leakage can be easily detected by the change in the cover 42 from white to the color of the colored sheet 48.
[0102] Furthermore, since there is an elastic body 46 between the colored sheet 48 and the sponge 44, even after the colored sheet 48 is in close contact with the cover 42, the sponge 44 can be further expanded while the elastic body 46 is compressed. In other words, even after the colored sheet 48 is in close contact with the cover 42, water absorption by the sponge 44 can continue, making it less likely for water to accumulate on the floor surface 2.
[0103] Next, the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 13(a) and 13(b). In the first and second embodiments, a case in which water leakage is detected by changing the color of the color-changing sheet 20 was described. In contrast, the fourth embodiment will describe a case in which water leakage is detected by a detection unit 54 that is pushed up by a sponge 52 that expands due to water absorption. Note that parts that are the same as those in the first to third embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted below.
[0104] Figures 13(a) and 13(b) are cross-sectional views of the leak detection device 50 in the fourth embodiment. Figures 13(a) and 13(b) show a cross-section of the leak detection device 50 approximately in the center in the left-right direction, and a cross-section perpendicular to the left-right direction. Figure 13(a) shows the sponge 52 in a dry state, and Figure 13(b) shows the sponge 52 in an expanded state due to water absorption.
[0105] As shown in Figure 13(a), the leak detection device 50 includes a bottom panel 41 placed on the floor surface 2, a cover 36 covering the top of the bottom panel 41, a second sheet 22 attached to the bottom panel 41, a sponge 52 that absorbs water from the second sheet 22, and a detection unit 54 that detects water absorption by the sponge 52. The sponge 52 is configured identically to the sponge 44 of the third embodiment, except that its shape has been changed to a cylindrical shape.
[0106] The detection unit 54 includes a rod portion 55 extending vertically, a contact portion 56 extending in the front-rear, left-right, and rear directions from the lower end of the rod portion 55, and a flange portion 57 extending in the front-rear, left-right, and rear directions from the upper end of the rod portion 55. The rod portion 55 is a rod-shaped part that is inserted into a hole formed through the upper surface panel 36c of the cover 36.
[0107] The contact portion 56 is a plate-shaped part with a dome-shaped lower surface, located above the sponge 52. The flange portion 57 is a flat plate-shaped part, placed on the upper surface of the upper panel 36c. The contact portion 56 or the flange portion 57 is detachably fixed to the rod portion 55 by screws or the like. This allows the detection unit 54 to be detachably attached to the upper panel 36c.
[0108] As shown in Figure 13(b), when the sponge 52 absorbs water and expands via the second sheet 22, the sponge 52 contacts the lower surface of the contact portion 56 and pushes up the detection portion 54. This causes the flange portion 57 to lift away from the upper panel 36c. This lifting of the flange portion 57 makes it easy to detect water leaks.
[0109] Because the lower surface of the contact portion 56 is dome-shaped, the surface pressure at the contact point between the lower surface and the sponge 52 can be easily distributed. Therefore, damage or deterioration of the sponge 52 due to the concentration of surface pressure can be reduced, and the durability of the sponge 52 can be improved.
[0110] Although the present invention has been described above based on embodiments, it can be easily inferred that the present invention is not limited in any way to the above embodiments, and that various improvements and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, material, color, pattern, etc. of each part of the leak detection device 10, 30, 40, and 50 may be changed as appropriate.
[0111] In the above-described configuration, the external shape (cross-sectional shape of the external shape) of the leak detection devices 10, 30, 40, and 50 in the left-right view was described as being rectangular or semicircular, but it is not limited to these. For example, the external shape may be circular, elliptical, sector-shaped, polygonal, or arch-shaped. In the case of a polygon, some of the interior angles of the multiple vertices may be 180° or more. Also, at least a portion of each side of the polygon may be curved. Furthermore, the cross-sectional shape of the external shape of the leak detection devices 10, 30, 40, and 50 may be changed according to the position in the left-right direction.
[0112] The suction section 18c, depending on the material it is made of, has difficulty drawing water up to a height of 5 cm or more due to gravity. Therefore, it is preferable to keep the distance from the lower end to the upper end of the suction section 18c to less than 5 cm. However, by forming the suction section 18c in a stepped shape and making each step less than 5 cm high, it is possible to draw water up to a height of 5 cm or more.
[0113] Furthermore, the external shape (cross-sectional shape of the external shape) of sponges 26, 44, and 52 in the left-right view is not limited to being a rectangle, semicircle, or circle. For example, the external shape may be an ellipse, sector, polygon, or arch. In the case of a polygon, some of the interior angles of the multiple vertices may be 180° or more. Also, at least a portion of each side of the polygon may be a curve. However, a rectangle is preferred for sponge 26 in the left-right view because it is inexpensive and easy to prepare. The cross-sectional shape of the external shape of sponges 26, 44, and 52 may be changed according to their position in the left-right direction.
[0114] Alternatively, the sponges 26, 44, and 52 may be formed into sheets, and these sheets may be laminated or rolled up. In this case, the sheet-shaped sponges 26, 44, and 52 and the first sheet 18 may be integrally molded. Furthermore, the sponges 26, 44, and 52 may be divided into multiple pieces.
[0115] In the first and second embodiments described above, a case was explained in which water leakage (liquid leakage) from the cooling device 4 is detected by changing the color or pattern of the color-changing sheet 20 due to the absorption of water (liquid), but the invention is not limited to this. For example, the color-changing sheet 20 may be a sheet whose color or pattern changes depending on humidity and temperature. Furthermore, the color change may be made to change in stages according to the amount of water absorbed, as well as the temperature and humidity.
[0116] In the case of the color-changing sheet 20, which changes color according to humidity, it can detect the rise in ambient humidity associated with a water leak, so water leaks can be detected even if the leak detection devices 10 and 30 are some distance away from the leak location. In addition, it can warn the outside that the surrounding area of the cooling device 4, etc., is in a high-humidity state, which makes water leaks more likely. Furthermore, if the color of the color-changing sheet 20 changes in stages according to humidity, water leaks can be detected when it turns the color corresponding to 100% humidity, and the other colors can be used to determine whether or not the situation is prone to water leaks.
[0117] In the case of the color-changing sheet 20 that changes color according to temperature, the moisture absorbed by the first sheet 18 evaporates, causing the temperature of the color-changing sheet 20 placed on top of it to drop, change color, and allow for the detection of water leakage. Furthermore, water leaking from the cooling device 4 may be colder than water dripping from an umbrella, etc. Therefore, by using the color-changing sheet 20 that changes color according to temperature, false detections of water leakage caused by water from umbrellas, etc., can be suppressed.
[0118] Furthermore, the first sheet 18 and the discoloration sheet 20 are not limited to separate components; they may also be constructed from a single component. That is, the first sheet 18 may be made from a material that changes color due to water absorption or other factors.
[0119] In the third embodiment described above, a case was described in which a colored sheet 48 is in close contact with the cover 42 to detect water leakage, but the invention is not limited to this. The configuration may be modified as appropriate, as long as the color of the cover 42 appears to change due to the member that adheres to the translucent cover 42 as the sponge 44 expands. For example, if the sponge 44 is a color other than white (for example, blue), the colored sheet 48 and elastic body 46 may be omitted, and water leakage may be detected by making the sponge 44, which has expanded due to water absorption, adhere to the cover 42.
[0120] In the fourth embodiment described above, a case was explained in which a water leak is detected when the detection unit 54 is displaced upward due to the expansion of the sponge 52 by water absorption, but the invention is not limited to this. The configuration may be changed as appropriate, as long as the detection unit that moves or rotates due to the expansion of the sponge 52 is visible from outside the leak detection device 50. For example, the sponge 52 that expands by absorbing water may push the detection unit forward or to the left or right, causing the detection unit to protrude to the outside through a hole provided in the cover 36. Alternatively, a rotating body placed inside the transparent cover 36 may be rotated by the expansion of the sponge 52, and the words "Caution: Water Leak" or similar written on the rotating body may be displayed. Furthermore, the expanded sponge 52 may shorten the piston cylinder, and the air discharged to the outside of the piston cylinder as a result of this shortening may be used to inflate a balloon or the like.
[0121] Since no electrical configuration is required for water leak detection using each form of leak detection device 10, 30, 40, 50, the flexibility in the installation location of the leak detection devices 10, 30, 40, 50 can be increased. However, sensors that detect water absorption by the first sheet 18, the second sheet 22, and sponges 26, 44, 52, and a notification mechanism that emits light or sound when the sensor detects water absorption may be added to the leak detection devices 10, 30, 40, 50. Alternatively, the detection signal from the sensor may be transmitted to an external device, which may then notify (detect) the water leak.
[0122] The above description explains the case where leak detection devices 10, 30, 40, and 50 are retrofitted to the cooling device 4, but the invention is not limited to this, and the leak detection devices 10, 30, 40, and 50 may be integrated or built into the cooling device 4.
[0123] The above description explains the case in which sponges 26, 44, and 52 absorb water from the floor surface 2 via the first sheet 18 and the second sheet 22, but it is not limited to this. For example, instead of sponges 26, 44, and 52, a water-absorbing polymer that absorbs water by osmosis or a water-absorbing fiber may be used. Also, the first sheet 18 and the second sheet 22 may be made of a water-absorbing polymer or a fiber.
[0124] Furthermore, the second sheet 22 in the first and second embodiments described above may be omitted. In addition, instead of omitting the second sheet 22 in each embodiment, a part of the sponges 26, 44, and 52 (the absorbing part) may be brought into contact with the floor surface 2. In the third and fourth embodiments described above, the first sheet 18 may be used instead of the second sheet 22.
[0125] In the first and second embodiments described above, the case where the material of the first sheet 18 and the material of the second sheet 22 are the same was explained, but the materials of the two may be different. For example, by making the material of the first sheet 18 have better water absorption (liquid absorption) than the material of the second sheet 22, water can be easily absorbed by the first sheet 18 even when the first sheet 18 and the second sheet 22 are in contact.
[0126] In the first and second embodiments described above, the first sheet 18 is connected to the sponge 26 by passing behind, above, and in front of the sponge 26 in order from the first end 18a to the second end 18b, but it is not limited to this. For example, the first sheet 18 may be connected to the sponge 26 by passing behind and above the sponge 26 in order, without passing in front of it.
[0127] Alternatively, the first sheet 18 may be passed over the sponge 26 in the order of front, top, and back. In this case, the first sheet 18 does not need to be passed over the sponge 26, nor does it need to be passed over the sponge 26. Also in this case, the first end 18a side of the first sheet 18 may be passed under the sponge 26. The first sheet 18 may also be passed to the left or right of the sponge 26.
[0128] The color-changing sheet 20 should be placed on at least one of the first sheet 18 relative to the sponge 26, specifically on the upper, front, left, and right sides. Furthermore, the covers 16 and 36 only need to be transparent or semi-transparent in the area where the color-changing sheet 20 is located on the back, while the other parts may be opaque.
[0129] In the second embodiment described above, a case was described in which a portion of the second sheet 22 is exposed on both the left and right sides of the case (bottom panel 32) that houses the sponge 26, but the invention is not limited to this. A portion of the first sheet 18 and the sponge 26 may be exposed on both the left and right sides of the case (cover 36), so that when multiple leak detection devices 30 are arranged in the left-right direction, the exposed portions come into contact with each other. Similarly, a member connected to the first sheet 18, the second sheet 22, and the sponge 26, which is permeable to water, may be exposed on both the left and right sides of the case so that the exposed portions come into contact with each other. These exposed portions may also be applied to the leak detection devices 10, 40, and 50 of the first, third, and fourth embodiments.
[0130] In the first embodiment described above, the case in which the first end 18a side (suction part 18c, etc.) of the first sheet 18 is split into two branches was explained, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, the vicinity of the first end 18a side of the first sheet 18 that protrudes downward from the slit 14i may be constructed as a single unit, and the second end 18b side (suction part 18c, etc.) may be split into two branches. In this case, it is easier to secure the amount of the first sheet 18 that protrudes downward from the slit 14i, so the first sheet 18 can be easily brought into contact with the floor surface 2 even without fixing the first end 18a of the first sheet 18 to the lower panel 12. Furthermore, the suction part 18c, etc. of the first sheet 18 may or may not be divided into three or more branches.
[0131] In the first and second embodiments described above, the case in which the entire first sheet 18 is divided into two or four sheets in the left-right direction and these two or four sheets are arranged side by side was explained, but the invention is not limited to this. The first sheet 18 may be divided into three or five or more sheets in the left-right direction, or it may not be divided at all.
[0132] Furthermore, when dividing the suction portion 18c in the left-right direction, the method of division is not limited to cutting. For example, a portion of the suction portion 18c may be heat-treated (thermo-cured) in the vertical direction to make it difficult for water to penetrate the heat-treated portion. In this case, the suction portion 18c, which has the function of drawing up water, is divided in the left-right direction by the heat-treated portion. Note that the heat-treated portion may be provided in a location other than the suction portion 18c.
[0133] Furthermore, if the division is done by the heat-treated portion, it is possible to make it difficult for adjacent suction portions 18c (first sheet 18) to come into contact with each other. However, depending on the material of the first sheet 18, the appearance of the heat-treated portion may be poor. In such cases, it is preferable to divide the suction portions 18c (first sheet 18) by cutting them apart.
[0134] In the second embodiment described above, the first sheet 18, which is divided in the left-right direction by projections 34i protruding from the upper surface of the upper inner plate 34b and pins 34j protruding from the lower edge of the front inner plate 34c, is positioned, but the invention is not limited to this. The projections 34i and pins 34j for positioning may be provided on various parts of the outer surface (cover 36 side) of the frame 34 and the inner surface (frame 34 side) of the cover 36, and multiple projections 34i and pins 34j may be arranged in the front-rear direction or the up-down direction. Furthermore, the projections 34i may be extended in the front-rear direction or the up-down direction to be configured like the rib 14m in the first embodiment. Moreover, the rib 14m in the first embodiment may be replaced with the projections 34i. In addition, these ribs 14m, projections 34i, and pins 34j may be omitted.
[0135] In the first and second embodiments described above, a case was explained in which one color-changing sheet 20 is stacked on top of multiple first sheets 18, but the invention is not limited to this. The color-changing sheet 20 may be divided in the left-right, front-back, or up-down directions. However, it is preferable that the color-changing sheet 20 is not divided. In this case, even if some of the multiple first sheets 18 absorb water, the color of the color-changing sheet 20 can be easily changed overall, making it easier for people nearby to notice a water leak.
[0136] In the second embodiment described above, an opaque portion 38 made of a white paint layer was provided on the outer surface of the cover 36 to conceal the edges of the discoloration sheet 20, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, the color of the paint layer may be other than white (for example, black), and the paint layer may be provided on the inner surface of the cover 36 (frame 34 side) or on the edges of the discoloration sheet 20. Alternatively, an opaque tape may be attached or a band or the like may be wrapped around the cover instead of a paint layer. Furthermore, the thickness of the cover 36 may be increased, or the cover 36 may be given a textured finish (such as micro-irregularities) to reduce transparency to a certain extent, and these areas may be designated as opaque portions 38. The opaque portions 38 may also conceal the parts of the discoloration sheet 20 other than the edges.
[0137] In the second embodiment described above, the case in which the side panel 36a of the cover 36 does not have ventilation holes 14c as in the first embodiment was explained, but it is not limited to this. Ventilation holes 14c may be provided in the side panel 36a. Also, the ventilation holes 14c may be omitted from the side panel 14b of the first embodiment. Furthermore, a wall may be provided inside the ventilation holes 14c to make it difficult to see inside from the outside.
[0138] In the second embodiment described above, the case in which the bottom panel 32 and the cover 36 are fixed by countersunk screws was explained, but the invention is not limited to this. The bottom panel 32 and the cover 36 may be fixed by fastening members other than countersunk screws, such as screws or rivets, and the fixing method may be welding, adhesive, magnets, or snap-fitting. The same applies to the fixing of the bottom panel 41 and the covers 36 and 42 in the third and fourth embodiments. Similarly, in the first embodiment, the bottom panel 12, frame 14, and cover 16 are fixed by snap-fitting, but the fixing method may be fastening members, welding, magnets, or adhesive. Furthermore, the fixing method in each of these embodiments may be a method of wrapping rubber bands, bands, strings, etc. around the leak detection devices 10, 30, 40, and 50. In this case, disassembly and assembly of the leak detection devices 10, 30, 40, and 50 can be made easier.
[0139] In the second embodiment described above, a case was described in which a pair of left and right guide ribs 36g protrude from the rear surface of the rear panel 36b, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, instead of linear guide ribs 36g, multiple dot-shaped guides arranged in the vertical direction may be provided, or linear or dot-shaped guides may be formed by printing, indentation, etc. These guides may also be applied to the first, third embodiments, etc.
[0140] In the above configuration, the expansion of sponges 26, 44, and 52 is restricted by the shape of the case (frame 14, etc.) that houses them. A wall or the like may be provided inside this case to further restrict the expansion of sponges 26, 44, and 52. [Explanation of Symbols]
[0141] 2 Floor surface 4 Cooling device (designated equipment) 10, 30, 40, 50 Leak detection device 12,32,41 Bottom panel (part of the case) 14.34 Frame (part of the case) 16,36 Cover (part of the case) 18. First sheet (suction part) 18a First end 18b Second end 18c wick part 20. Color-changing sheet (detection part) 22. Second sheet (suction part) 26, 44, 52 Sponge (absorbent material) 42 Cover (part of the case, part of the detection unit) 48. Colored sheet (part of the detection area) 54 Detection unit
Claims
1. A leak detection device positioned in front of a predetermined piece of equipment placed on the floor surface, The suction unit for absorbing the liquid from the floor surface, An absorbent body positioned away from the floor surface and absorbing liquid from the absorption part, A leak detection device comprising a detection unit that detects the occurrence of liquid leakage from a predetermined device by changing its appearance in response to the absorption of liquid by the suction unit or the absorbent.
2. The leak detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that the detection unit is placed on top of the suction unit so as to be visible from the outside, and includes a color-changing sheet that changes color when it absorbs liquid from the suction unit.
3. The maximum amount of liquid absorbed by the absorbent is greater than the maximum amount of liquid absorbed by the suction part. The suction portion comprises a first sheet having a first end that contacts the floor surface and a second end that is opposite to the first end and connected to the absorbent, with the end other than the second end not in contact with the absorbent. The leak detection device according to claim 2, wherein the discoloration sheet is superimposed on the first sheet between the first end and the second end.
4. The first sheet is equipped with a suction portion that draws liquid upward from the first end to the second end, The leak detection device according to claim 3, characterized in that the suction portion is divided into multiple sections in the left-right direction.
5. The suction portion comprises a second sheet having a lower surface that makes surface contact with the floor surface and an upper surface that makes surface contact with the absorbent side. The leak detection device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the second sheet is not in contact with the first sheet except for the second end.
6. The leak detection device according to claim 5, characterized in that the first end of the first sheet is located behind the second sheet.
7. The case comprises a case that houses the absorbent inside, The leak detection device according to claim 5, characterized in that a portion of the second sheet is exposed on both the left and right sides of the case.