Liquid-Activated Drink Infuser PCB for Automatic Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lighted items for liquid environments require user interaction for activation or use separate devices, lacking the ability to internally activate and infuse substances into the liquid.
Innovation Solution
A liquid-activated light and infusing apparatus comprising a shell, base, and printed circuit board (PCB) that illuminates upon submersion, using liquid as a switch to close the circuit and discontinue illumination upon removal, with optional soluble substances for infusion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a glow-stick or pre-lit device is used, then illumination is achieved, but user interaction is required and the device cannot infuse substances into the liquid
Solution Approach 1:
The device combines multiple functions into a single unit: illumination, automatic liquid detection, and substance infusion. The PCB circuit board serves both as the lighting control system and as a platform for liquid detection through conductive probes, while the soluble substance compartment enables infusion capability, making the device universally applicable for both decorative and functional purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The device automatically detects liquid presence through conductive probes on the PCB that complete an electrical circuit when submerged, triggering illumination without user intervention. The soluble substances automatically dissolve and infuse into the liquid once the device is activated, eliminating the need for separate manual operations.
2Reliability
If the device is made waterproof to illuminate in liquid, then illumination in liquid is achieved, but detection of drink emptiness becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive probes on the PCB act as intermediaries between the liquid environment and the electronic circuit. These probes extend through the waterproof housing and make direct contact with the liquid, allowing electrical circuit completion for both illumination activation and liquid level detection without compromising the waterproof seal of the main housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The device can change illumination characteristics (such as color or brightness) to indicate different liquid levels or states. The PCB circuit can detect when liquid recedes below the probe contact point and change the LED output accordingly, providing visual feedback about drink emptiness while maintaining reliable illumination.
3Adaptability or versatility
If soluble substances are placed inside the shell, then infusion is achieved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The soluble substance compartment is nested within the existing device structure, utilizing the internal space of the housing. The PCB circuit board serves as both the electronic control platform and the structural base for mounting the substance compartment, eliminating the need for separate external infusion mechanisms and reducing overall structural complexity.
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
Provides a safe, decorative, and functional device that illuminates in liquid, ensuring accurate detection of drink emptiness and efficient infusion of substances, enhancing user experience in various settings.
Implementation Method 1
wherein the presence of a liquid acts as a switch by creating a bridge that closes the circuit, and in turn, illuminates the device
Implementation Method 2
a light-emitting diode (LED), at least one conductive probe, and a minimum of one transistor circuit
Implementation Method 3
The device may be fitted with a soluble substance within the shell of the liquid-activated light and infusing apparatus which is dispersed throughout the liquid upon insertion by use of the strategically placed openings located on the shell and lower section of the base
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a novel method and apparatus for a liquid-activated, lighted and flavored drink infuser. The invention enhances the water experience for any user by providing a liquid-activated, lighted, device with a dissolvable shell that, when placed in liquid, will light up and/or release into the liquid specific contents inside the infuser after the exterior dissolves.