Beverage Dispenser Water Volume Detection Using Gravity-Based Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
The water volume detection devices in beverage dispensers, such as coffee machines and juicers, have high costs and are prone to environmental interference, affecting their precision.
Innovation Solution
A water volume detection system comprising a substrate, a mobile plate that supports the water tank, an elastic element between the substrate and the mobile plate, and contact members that form a switch, allowing the system to detect water level changes through gravity and displacement, reducing environmental interference and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a float and position sensing device are used to detect water level, then water volume detection function is achieved, but the cost increases and the device becomes sensitive to environmental interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional float-based mechanical detection system with an electronic sensing system. The sensing device detects the weight of the water tank directly, converting the mechanical weight measurement into an electrical signal for water level detection. This substitution eliminates the need for floats, magnets, and complex mechanical linkages, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining detection precision and eliminating environmental sensitivity issues associated with magnetic elements.
2Measurement precision
If magnetic elements are used in the float for detection, then water level detection is enabled, but the detection precision is affected by environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces magnetic-based float detection with a direct weight sensing mechanism. The sensing device measures the weight of the water tank and its changes, providing a direct physical measurement that is not influenced by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, or magnetic interference. This approach ensures stable and accurate water level detection regardless of environmental conditions.
3Reliability
If traditional float and sensor components are installed, then water volume detection is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies the detection system by replacing expensive float, magnet, and position sensor components with a more economical weight-based sensing device. This sensing device can be integrated directly into the water tank or dispenser structure, reducing the number of discrete parts and assembly steps required. The simplified design lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining reliable water volume detection functionality.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides stable and accurate water volume detection, reducing manufacturing costs and minimizing environmental impact on the device's operation.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic element disposed between the substrate and the mobile plate
Implementation Method 2
When the water volume reaches a set value, the mobile plate, under the gravity of the water tank, is pressed to a lower side
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention discloses a beverage dispenser, including a dispenser body, a water tank, a control device used for controlling the beverage dispenser to operate and a water volume detection device, the water volume detection device including: a substrate located on the dispenser body; a mobile plate that supports the water tank; an elastic element disposed between the substrate and the mobile plate; a first contact member disposed below the mobile plate; and a second contact member disposed above the substrate; wherein the mobile plate is disposed above the substrate and moves up and down relative to the substrate with changes of water levels in the water tank, and the first contact member and the second contact member constitute a switch of the control device. Through the present invention, the problem in the prior art that the water volume detection device of the beverage dispenser has a high cost and is easily affected by environments, which, on the one end, reduces the manufacturing cost of the water volume detection device in the beverage dispenser, and on the other hand, causes water volume detection not to be easily affected by environments and to be more stable and accurate.