Dehumidification device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dehumidification devices require a tall water collection container with a floating sensor to detect water level and a separate sensor to check the installation of the container, increasing complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A sensing unit with multiple electrode members and terminals that electrically connect to detect the installation and water level within the water collection container, eliminating the need for a separate sensor and allowing for a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a floating sensor is used to detect water level in the water collection container, then the water level can be detected, but the water collection container requires a tall height to accommodate the floating sensor's movement range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical floating sensor system with an electrical sensing system using electrode members and terminals. Instead of a physical float that moves with water level, the invention uses electrical conductivity detection through multiple electrodes at different heights to sense water level, eliminating the need for tall container structure to accommodate float movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing unit serves multiple functions: it detects both the installation status of the water collection container (via connection between first and second terminals) and the water level (via connection between third terminal and water). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate sensors and reduces overall system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If a separate sensor is added to detect whether the water collection container is installed or removed, then the installation status can be detected, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing unit is designed to perform multiple detection tasks simultaneously. The same electrode members and terminals used for water level detection also serve to detect container installation status. When the container is installed, the first terminal connects to the first electrode member and the second terminal connects to the second electrode member, enabling installation detection without requiring additional sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the container installation detection function and water level detection function into a single integrated sensing unit. The electrode members and terminals are configured to perform both functions, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall sensor system.
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 solution reduces material and production costs while extending the sensor's use cycle, enabling efficient detection of water level and container installation without additional sensors.
Implementation Method 1
the second terminal becomes electrically connected to the first terminal to thereby detect the installation of the water collection container inside the main body
Implementation Method 2
the third terminal becomes electrically connected to the first terminal through the water to thereby detect the predetermined amount of water being collected in the water collection chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A dehumidification device including a main body including a treatment chamber; a heat exchanger to cool air discharged from the treatment chamber; a water collection container that is installable inside the main body so that water condensed by the heat exchanger is collected therein; and a sensing unit including first, second, and third terminals, the sensing unit being configured so that in response to the water collection container is installed inside the main body, the second terminal becomes electrically connected to the first terminal to thereby detect the installation of the water collection container inside the main body, and in response to a predetermined amount of water is collected in the water collection chamber while the water collection container is installed inside the main body, the third terminal becomes electrically connected to the first terminal through the water to thereby detect the predetermined amount of water being collected in the water collection chamber.