KR102706905B1 - Control apparatus and control method water supply device for pets - Google Patents

Abstract

A control device and a control method for a pet waterer are provided, which can reduce power consumption by operating a pump only when a pet approaches within a set distance to drink water and stays there for a set period of time.
To this end, a control device for a pet waterer according to the present invention includes a pet waterer including a tank for storing water and a pump installed in the tank, a plurality of proximity sensors installed spaced apart from each other along a perimeter of the pet waterer and detecting a pet within a predetermined distance range, and a control unit installed in the pet waterer and operating the pump when at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors detects the pet for a set period of time or longer.

Description

{CONTROL APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD WATER SUPPLY DEVICE FOR PETS}

The present invention relates to a control device and a control method for a pet waterer, and more specifically, to a control device and a control method for a pet waterer including a water tank and a pump for pumping water stored in the water tank.

Recently, not only has the number of people keeping pets increased, but people's attachment to and interest in pets is also increasing day by day, so many devices for pets are being developed.

Among these, since pets need to drink water frequently to maintain their biological rhythm, and pets are often left alone and have difficulty communicating with humans, interest in waterers that can always provide clean water to pets is increasing.

U.S. Patent Publication No. US2015/0313180A1 (hereinafter referred to as “prior art”) discloses a “pet watering assembly” including a pump module having a water tank, a pump and a filter built into it, a water supply pipe connected to the pump, and a dome-shaped watering module (fountain module) having a bowl formed on the upper side for temporarily storing water supplied from the water supply pipe and covering the pump module.

The above conventional technology allows the pet to drink water collected on the upper side of the dish by driving the pump to move water in the tank through the water supply pipe to the upper side of the dish.

However, the above-mentioned prior art has a problem in that power consumption increases because the pump is always operated even when the pet does not drink water from the pet watering assembly.

In addition, the above-mentioned prior art had a problem in that since the pump supplied a certain amount of water to the dish, the water collected in the dish was not enough for multiple pets to drink at once.

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a control device and a control method for a pet waterer capable of reducing power consumption by operating a pump only when a pet approaches within a predetermined distance to drink water and stays there for a set period of time.

Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a control device and a control method for a pet waterer capable of adjusting the pumping capacity of the pump according to the number of pets approaching within a predetermined distance to drink water and staying for a set period of time or longer.

The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

In order to achieve the above object, a control device for a pet waterer according to the present invention includes a pet waterer including a tank for storing water and a pump installed in the tank, a plurality of proximity sensors installed spaced apart from each other along a periphery of the pet waterer and detecting a pet within a predetermined distance range, and a control unit installed in the pet waterer and operating the pump when at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors detects the pet for a set period of time or longer.

The above control unit can stop the operation of the pump if none of the plurality of proximity sensors detects a pet for a set period of time during the operation of the pump.

The above control unit can increase the pumping capacity of the pump when the number of the plurality of proximity sensors that detect a pet for a set period of time or longer during the operation of the pump increases.

The above control unit can reduce the pumping capacity of the pump when the number of the plurality of proximity sensors that detect a pet for more than the set time decreases during the operation of the pump.

The above tank includes a bottom plate and a side wall, the side wall includes a lower edge wall positioned lower than the bottom plate, and the plurality of proximity sensors can be installed on the inner side of the lower edge wall.

An edge surface is formed protruding on the inner surface of the lower edge wall, and the proximity sensor can be installed inside the edge surface.

A hole through which a signal from the proximity sensor is transmitted can be formed in the lower edge wall.

The pet waterer may further include a water pipe through which water discharged from the pump is transferred, and a water plate positioned above the water tank and having an upper surface through which water supplied from the water pipe flows.

The pet waterer may further include a water receiver positioned so as to cover the open upper side of the tank and positioned below the water supply plate, the water receiver receiving water from the water supply plate and discharging water into the tank.

The system may further include a filter for filtering water stored in the tank, and the pump may be disposed within the filter.

A method for controlling a pet waterer according to the present invention comprises a pet waterer including a tank for storing water and a pump installed in the tank, the method comprising: a pet detection step in which at least one of a plurality of proximity sensors installed spaced apart from each other along a periphery of the pet waterer and detecting a pet within a predetermined distance range detects the pet; and a pump operation step in which the pump is operated when at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors detects the pet for a set period of time or longer.

After the above pump operation step, if none of the plurality of proximity sensors detects a pet for a set period of time, a pump stop step may be further included to stop the operation of the pump.

After the above pump operation step, if the number of the plurality of proximity sensors that detect a pet for more than the set time increases, a pumping capacity increasing step of increasing the pumping capacity of the pump may be further included.

After the above pump operation step, if the number of the plurality of proximity sensors that detect the pet for more than the set time decreases, a pumping capacity reduction step of reducing the pumping capacity of the pump may be further included.

Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

According to the control device and control method of the pet waterer according to the present invention, a plurality of proximity sensors are installed spaced apart from each other along the perimeter of the pet waterer to detect a pet within a predetermined distance range, and the control unit operates the pump when at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors detects the pet for a set period of time or longer. Therefore, the pump is operated only when the pet approaches the pet waterer and stays there for a set period of time or longer, thereby reducing power consumption.

In addition, according to the control device and control method of the pet waterer according to the present invention, the pumping capacity of the pump is adjusted according to the number of the plurality of proximity sensors that detect pets for the set time or longer during the operation of the pump, so there is also an effect of being able to adjust the pumping capacity of the pump according to the number of pets that approach the pet waterer and stay there for the set time or longer.

The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a pet waterer to which a control device for a pet waterer according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied.
Figure 2 is a cross-sectional side view of the pet waterer shown in Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the tank illustrated in Figure 2;
Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the filter, pump, and wireless power transmission unit housing illustrated in Figure 2.
Figure 5 is a cross-sectional side view of the filter, pump, and wireless power transmission unit housing illustrated in Figure 2 in an assembled state.
Figure 6 is a drawing showing components assembled into the water supply plate illustrated in Figure 2;
Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the components and lighting device shown in Figure 6 combined.
Figure 8 is an exploded perspective view of Figure 7.
Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the water receiver shown in Fig. 2;
Figure 10 is an exploded perspective view showing various components installed on the lower edge wall of the tank.
Figure 11 is a control block diagram of a control device of a pet waterer according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 12 is a flow chart according to a control method of a pet waterer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

The advantages and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become apparent with reference to the embodiments described below. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but may be implemented in various different forms, and the present embodiments are provided only to make the disclosure of the present invention complete and to fully inform a person skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification.

In order to clearly express various layers and areas in the drawing, the thickness is enlarged and shown. And in the drawing, for the convenience of explanation, the thickness of some layers and areas is exaggerated.

In addition, when a part such as a layer, film, region, or board is said to be "on" or "above" another part, this includes not only the case where it is "directly above" another part, but also the case where there is another part in between. Conversely, when a part is said to be "directly above" another part, it means that there is no other part in between. Furthermore, when a part such as a layer, film, region, or board is said to be "under" or "below" another part, this includes not only the case where it is "directly below" another part, but also the case where there is another part in between. Conversely, when a part is said to be "directly below" another part, it means that there is no other part in between.

The pet waterer to which the control device of the pet waterer according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied basically supplies water stored in a water tank to a water supply plate by a pump, and the water supplied to the water supply plate circulates back to the water tank so as to supply water in various fluid states. In this regard, the configuration and operation of the control device and the control method of the pet waterer according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12.

A control device for a pet waterer according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a pet waterer, a proximity sensor (87) installed in the pet waterer, and a control unit (C) installed in the pet waterer.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the pet waterer includes a water tank (10) having an open upper side, a pump (20) installed in the water tank (10), a water supply pipe (25) through which water discharged from the pump (20) is transferred, a water supply plate (30) positioned above the water tank (10) and having an upper side through which water supplied from the water supply pipe (25) flows, and a water receiver (50) positioned so as to cover the open upper side of the water tank (10) and positioned below the water supply plate (30) and receiving water from the water supply plate (30) and discharging it into the water tank (10).

The pump (20) is placed in the center of the water tank (10). In addition, a water supply hole (32) is formed in the center of the water supply plate (30) to supply water supplied from the water supply pipe (25) to the upper surface of the water supply plate (30). The water moved to the upper surface of the water supply plate (30) through the water supply hole (32) is supplied to the water receiver (50) through the edge of the water supply plate (30).

The pet waterer includes a tank (10) and an inner assembly (100) positioned on the open upper side of the tank (10). That is, the pet waterer is composed of two parts, the tank (10) and the inner assembly (100), so that when a user lifts the inner assembly (100), the inner assembly (100) can be separated from the tank (10). After separating the inner assembly (100) from the tank (10), the user can exchange the water stored in the tank (10) or wash the inside of the tank (10).

The inner assembly (100) may include a pump (20), a water supply pipe (25), a water supply plate (30), and a water receiver (50).

The pump (20), water supply pipe (25), water supply plate (30), and water receiver (50) can be integrally combined to form a single inner assembly (100).

When a user lifts the inner assembly (100), the inner assembly (100) can be separated from the tank (10). The user can lift the inner assembly (100) by holding the water receiver (50), which is the lowest configuration among the configurations arranged on the outside of the tank (10) among the inner assembly (100), and separate the inner assembly (100) from the tank (10). After separating the inner assembly (100) from the tank (10), the user can easily exchange the water stored in the tank (10) and wash the inside of the tank (10).

In addition, the inner assembly (100) may further include a filter (40) for filtering water stored in the tank (10). When the inner assembly (100) further includes a filter (40), the inner assembly (100) may be configured such that the filter (40) is further integrally combined. That is, when the inner assembly (100) further includes a filter (40), the pump (20), the water supply pipe (25), the water supply plate (30), the water receiver (50), and the filter (40) may be integrally combined to form a single inner assembly (100).

If the inner assembly (100) further includes a filter (40), the pump (20) can pump water filtered by the filter (40).

The filtration filter (40) may include a first filtration filter (42) and a second filtration filter (44) arranged inside the first filtration filter (42). A support body (44b) may be installed on the lower side of the second filtration filter (44) inside the first filtration filter (42).

In addition, the inner assembly (100) may further include at least one UV light (Ultraviolet Ray) sterilizing filter (47, 48, 49) for sterilizing water. When the inner assembly (100) further includes at least one UV sterilizing filter (47, 48, 49), the inner assembly (100) may be configured by further integrally combining at least one UV sterilizing filter (47, 48, 49). That is, when the inner assembly (100) further includes at least one UV sterilizing filter (47, 48, 49), the pump (20), the water supply pipe (25), the water supply plate (30), the water receiver (50), the filtration filter (40), and the at least one UV sterilizing filter (47, 48, 49) may be integrally combined to configure a single inner assembly (100).

At least one UV germicidal filter (47, 48, 49) may include an ultraviolet light-emitting diode (UV LED) and may diffuse light generated by the UV LED.

At least one UV sterilizing filter (47, 48, 49) may include a UV sterilizing filter (47, 48) that sterilizes water stored in the tank (10) and a UV sterilizing filter (49) that sterilizes water discharged from the water supply pipe (25).

The tank (10) may include side walls (11, 11a, 11b) and a bottom plate (12). The side walls (11, 11a, 11b) may include a main side wall (11) made of a transparent material, an upper side wall (11a) located on the upper side of the main side wall (11) and made of an opaque material, and a lower border wall (11b) located on the lower side of the main side wall (11) and made of an opaque material.

The lower edge wall (11b) can be placed on the lower side of the floor plate (12). The main side wall (11) can be placed on the upper side with respect to the floor plate (12), and the lower edge wall (11b) can be placed on the lower side with respect to the floor plate (12).

The main side wall (11), the upper side wall (11a), and the lower edge wall (11b) may be formed of different materials. The main side wall (11) may be a portion where water is actually stored. A user can visually check the amount and contamination level of water contained within the main side wall (11) from the outside of the transparent main side wall (11).

A protruding wall (111, 112, 113) may be formed on the inner surface of the side wall (11, 11a, 11b) of the water tank (10). The protruding wall (111, 112, 113) may have an inner inclined surface (113) on the inner surface. An outer inclined surface (514) supported by the inner inclined surface (113) may be formed on the outer surface of the water receiver (50).

The above protruding wall (111, 112, 113) can be formed on the inner surface of the side wall of the upper side wall (11a).

The inner assembly (100) may have its lower part inserted into the tank (10), and its upper part protruding toward the upper side of the tank (10).

The outer surface of the water receiver (50) can be positioned so that the lower part is inserted into the inside of the water tank (10), and the upper part can be positioned so as to protrude outside of the water tank (10).

The pump (20) and the filter (40) are placed on the lower side of the water receiver (50) and can be inserted into the interior of the water tank (10).

The water supply plate (30) can be placed on the upper side of the water receiver (50). The lower part of the water supply plate (30) can be inserted and placed within the water receiver (50), and the upper part can be placed so as to protrude upward from the water receiver (50).

The inner assembly (100) may further include a partition plate (38). The partition plate (38) may be spaced downward from the water supply plate (30). A water supply pipe may pass through the partition plate (38). The partition plate (38) may be inserted into a groove (541) formed on the upper side of the water receiver (50). The partition plate (38) may be inserted into a groove (541) formed on the upper side of the inner wall (54) of the water receiver (50).

The water supply plate (30) and the partition plate (38) may be combined with a tubular side member (63). The side member (63) may be formed as a light guide plate that emits light generated by a light emitter (61). The side member (63) may be arranged on the lower side of the water supply plate (30). The side member (63) may connect between the water supply plate (30) and the partition plate (38). The side member (63) may be formed in a trumpet shape that is expanded upward. The upper and lower sides of the side member (63) may be opened respectively. The water supply plate (30) may cover the open upper side of the side member (63), and the partition plate (38) may cover the open lower side of the side member (63). The water plate (30) and the side member (63) may be placed above the inner wall (54) of the water receiver (50). Hereinafter, the side member (63) will be described as a light guide plate (63).

A pump (20) is installed in the tank (10) and can pump water stored in the tank. The pump (20) can be placed in the center of the tank (10). The pump (20) can be placed spaced upward from the bottom plate (12) of the tank (10). The water supply plate (30) can allow water supplied from the water supply pipe (25) to accumulate on the upper side (31) and then overflow through the edge.

A water receiver (50) can be placed between the water tank (10) and the water supply plate (30).

The filtration filter (40) can be installed inside the tank (10). The filtration filter (40) can be placed in the center of the tank (10). The filtration filter (40) can filter out foreign substances contained in the water stored in the tank (10) before it flows into the pump (20).

Additionally, the pet waterer may include a power supply device, a lighting device, a water level sensor, a water temperature sensor, a proximity sensor, a contamination sensor, a water temperature maintenance device, and a sterilizing filter.

Below, each component included in the embodiment of the present invention is described in detail.

Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the tank (10) may include a side wall that is opened at the upper and lower sides to form a side edge of the tank (10), and a bottom plate (12) that is placed on the opened lower side of the side wall of the tank (10).

The tank (10) may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an inner diameter that decreases in the upward direction as in the embodiment of the present invention, but is not limited thereto and may be formed in various other shapes. In the case where the tank (10) is formed in the shape of an upper and lower beam as described above, even when a considerable external impact is applied to the tank (10), the tank (10) does not capsize and can be stably positioned to perform its function.

The upper side wall (11a) can be formed to extend upward from the main side wall (11), and a protruding wall (111, 112, 113) protruding toward the center of the tank (10) can be formed on the inner surface of the upper side wall (11a).

The protruding wall (111, 112, 113) may have an inner slope (113) on its inner surface. The inner slope (113) may be inclined toward the center of the tank as it goes downward.

The protruding wall (111, 112, 113) may have a first protruding plate (111) and a second protruding plate (112) that protrude horizontally toward the center of the tank (10) on the inner surface of the upper side wall (11a). The first protruding plate (111) and the second protruding plate (112) may be spaced apart from each other in the upper and lower directions. The first protruding plate (111) may be arranged above the second protruding plate (112), and the second protruding plate (112) may be arranged below the first protruding plate (111).

A void space is formed on the inner surface of the upper side wall (11a) and the inner surface formed by the first protruding plate (111), the second protruding plate (112), and the inner inclined surface (113), thereby reducing the weight of the tank (10). In particular, when the upper side wall (11a) is made of an expensive material having an aesthetic feel, the cost of the upper side wall (11a) can be reduced by forming a void space on the inner surface of the upper side wall (11a) and the inner surface formed by the first protruding plate (111), the second protruding plate (112), and the inner inclined surface (113).

The second protruding plate (112) is formed to protrude further inward than the first protruding plate (111), and the inner inclined surface (113) can connect the inner end of the first protruding plate (111) and the inner end of the second protruding plate (112).

The upper side wall (11a) may extend upward in the same direction as the main side wall (11) as in an embodiment of the present invention and protrude upward from the main side wall (11), or may extend and protrude so as to be gradually expanded or reduced compared to the main side wall (11).

In addition, the upper side wall (11a) may be formed with an upward protrusion (114) that protrudes upward from the first protrusion plate (111), and a packing (115) may be attached to the inner surface of the upward protrusion (114) and the upper surface of the first protrusion plate (111), so that the water receiver (50) may be placed on the upper side wall (11a) so as to be in close contact with the packing (115).

The packing (115) can be formed to adhere closely to the outer wall (51) of the water receiver (50) on the inner side of the side wall of the water tank (10).

A convex protrusion (121) may be formed in a cylindrical shape facing upward in the center of the floor plate (12), and a wireless power transmitter (72) described later may be installed in the internal space of the protrusion (121) when viewed from the bottom surface of the floor plate (12), and the floor plate (12) may be formed integrally with the main side wall (11), or may be formed separately and then joined to each other. A ring-shaped groove (122) that is concave downward may be formed on the bottom surface portion around the protrusion (121).

The main side wall (11) may be manufactured integrally with the upper side wall (11a) and the lower edge wall (11b) using the same material, or the main side wall (11), the upper side wall (11a), and the lower edge wall (11b) may be manufactured separately using different materials and then joined together to form an integral body. The main side wall (11) may be formed of a different material from the upper side wall (11a) and the lower edge wall (11b), and the upper side wall (11a) and the lower edge wall (11b) may be formed of the same material. The upper side wall (11a) and the lower edge wall (11b) may be manufactured by selecting from a variety of materials having excellent aesthetics, and the main side wall (11) may be manufactured of a transparent material so that the amount of water in the water tank (10) can be recognized from the outside. In this embodiment, the main side wall (11) is formed of glass, and the upper side wall (11a) and the lower edge wall (11b) are formed of the same material, stainless steel.

The lower edge wall (11b) may have an outer surface (116) that extends in a downward curved manner from the lower edge of the main side wall (11).

The outer surface (116) can be formed to be convex toward the outside. Accordingly, when an external impact is applied to the tank (10) while the tank (10) is placed on the ground and the tank (10) tilts to one side, the tank (10) can stand upright like a grasshopper with the outer surface (116) in contact with the ground.

In addition, the outer surface (116) can be positioned so that the lower part is closer to the center of the water tank (10) than the upper part. Accordingly, when the water supply device is placed on the ground, a space is formed between the ground and the outer surface (116), and the user can lift the water tank (10) by inserting a finger into the space formed between the ground and the outer surface (116).

In addition, the lower edge wall (11b) may be formed with an edge surface (117) that protrudes from the upper side of the outer surface (116) toward the center of the water tank (10) to have a predetermined width.

Accordingly, the lower edge wall (11b) is formed with an edge surface (117) having a predetermined area overlapping with the edge portion of the floor plate (12), and a water level sensor (86), etc. can be installed on the edge surface (117).

The main side wall (11), upper side wall (11a) and lower edge wall (11b) can be joined to each other by fusion to form a single body.

In addition, a base (18) spaced downward from the floor plate (12) can be placed in the opening formed in the lower part of the outer surface (116) of the lower edge wall (11b), and various parts described later can be installed in the space formed between the lower edge wall (11b), the base (18), and the floor plate (12), and the base (18) can be placed on a docking station (71) described later.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 4, and 5, the filtration filter (40) may include a first filtration filter (42) and a second filtration filter (44).

The first filter (42) may be formed in a cylindrical shape with considerable rigidity, and a number of holes (421) may be formed in the side wall. The first filter (42) may have an expanded upper shape and may be formed of stainless steel.

The first filter (42) can filter foreign substances having particles larger than the holes (421) formed in the first filter (42). For example, when a pet licks water collected on the upper side of the water plate (30), food in the pet's mouth may fall and mix with the water stored in the water tank (10). Therefore, the first filter (42) prevents foreign substances having particles larger than the holes (421), such as the food mixed in the water stored in the water tank (10), from passing through the holes (421), thereby filtering the food from the water stored in the water tank (10).

The first filter (42) can be opened at the top and bottom.

The first filter (42) may include a lower filter cover (43) arranged at the lower portion, and the lower filter cover (43) may be formed separately and combined with the first filter (42), or may be formed as a single body with the first filter (42).

The lower filter cover (43) may be formed to be convex upward so as to be placed on the protrusion (121) formed on the bottom plate (12) of the tank (10) as described above, and a flange (431) may be formed on the edge of the lower filter cover (43) so as to be inserted into the groove (122) formed around the protrusion (121) of the bottom plate (12) as shown in FIG. 3.

Accordingly, the first filter (42) can be stably placed in a predetermined position without moving horizontally within the tank (10) by the protrusion (121) formed on the bottom plate (12) and the lower filter cover (43) covered therewith.

The second filter (44) can be placed in the hollow portion of the first filter (42), and a pump (20) can be installed in the internal space of the second filter (44).

When the pump (20) is installed in the internal space of the first filter (42) or the second filter (44), the filtration performance is improved, the pumping efficiency is enhanced, and a separate facility for fixing the pump to a predetermined position is not required compared to when the filter is arranged on one side of the pump.

The second filter (44) may include a filter housing having an outer wall (442) having a plurality of perforations (441) formed therein, an inner wall (443) spaced apart from the outer wall and having a plurality of perforations formed therein, and a filter material (45) filled in a space formed between the outer wall (442) and the inner wall (443) of the filter housing.

The filter material (45) can filter foreign substances whose particles are smaller than the holes (441) formed in the outer wall (442). The filter material (45) may be a carbon filter.

Meanwhile, a support body (44b) that accommodates a wireless power receiver (73) may be placed on the lower side of the second filter (44).

The second filter (44) may be formed with a support plate (444) that supports the lower side of the filter material (45) and the lower side of the pump (20), and the side wall of the second filter (44) may protrude lower than the support plate (444), so that the lower side of the second filter (44) may be open. The upper side of the second filter (44) may be open.

The support body (44b) may be shielded at the top and open at the bottom. A lower filter cover (43) may be inserted into the opened lower side of the support body (44b).

The lower part of the first filter (42) and the lower part of the outer wall (442) of the second filter (44) can be mounted on the upper surface of the flange (431) of the lower filter cover (43). In this embodiment, the second UV sterilizing filter (48) is mounted on the upper surface of the flange (431), and the lower part of the first filter (42) and the lower part of the support body (44b) are mounted on the upper surface of the second UV sterilizing filter (48).

The upper end of the support cylinder (44b) can be connected to the lower end of the second filter (44). A spiral is formed on the inner surface of the lower end of the second filter (44), and a spiral is formed on the outer surface of the upper end of the support cylinder (44b) to be connected to the spiral of the second filter (44), so that when the upper end of the support cylinder (44b) is inserted into the lower end of the second filter (44), the spiral of the second filter (44) and the spiral of the support cylinder (44b) are connected to each other, thereby allowing the second filter (44) and the support cylinder (44b) to be connected to each other.

When the support body (44b) is connected to the second filter (44), the wireless power receiver (73) can be placed in the space between the support plate (444) and the upper surface of the support body (44b) by being secured to the upper surface of the support body (44b).

The pump (20) is placed in a hollow space formed inside the inner wall (443) of the second filter (44), and water passing through the first filter (42) and the filter material (45) can be sucked into the pump (20) through a hole formed in the inner surface (443) of the second filter (44) and discharged to the water supply pipe (25).

A ring-shaped first UV sterilizing filter (47) may be installed on the upper outer surface of the support body (44b). The first UV sterilizing filter (47) may include a plurality of first UV LEDs (not shown) spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction. The first UV sterilizing filter (47) may diffuse light generated by the plurality of first UV LEDs to sterilize water introduced into the first filter (42). The plurality of first UV LEDs may be installed spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction so that light is radially irradiated outwardly onto the inner surface of the first UV sterilizing filter (47).

In addition, a ring-shaped second UV sterilizing filter (48) may be installed on the lower side of the first filtration filter (42). The second UV sterilizing filter (48) may be installed on the lower outer surface of the first filtration filter (42). The second UV sterilizing filter (48) may include a plurality of second UV LEDs (not shown) spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction. The second UV sterilizing filter (48) may sterilize water stored in the water tank (10) by diffusing light generated by the plurality of second UV LEDs. The plurality of second UV LEDs may be installed spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction so that light is radially irradiated outwardly on the inner surface of the second UV sterilizing filter (48).

An upper filter cover (46) may be placed on the upper side of the first and second filter filters (42, 44) through which a water supply pipe (25) passes and seals the upper side of the pump (20) and the first and second filter filters (42, 44). The first and second filter filters (42, 44) and the upper filter cover (46) may be fixedly joined by a method such as bonding or fusion so as to become one body, or may be assembled so as to be detachable from each other by a known joining means such as interlocking male and female hook members or screw joints.

Meanwhile, the lower part of the support cylinder (44b) can be covered by the lower filter cover (43) described above. The support cylinder (44b) and the lower filter cover (43) can also be manufactured to be a single body.

Meanwhile, when the lower filter cover (43) is formed integrally with the first filter (42) or combined with the first filter (42), the support body (44b) can be placed on the lower filter cover (43). Conversely, when the lower filter cover (43) is formed integrally with the support body (44b) or combined with the support body (44b), the first filter (42) can be placed on the lower filter cover (43).

The support body (44b) can be directly inserted into the outer side of the protrusion (121) of the bottom plate at the lower side, or can be inserted into the outer side of the lower filter cover (43) covered with the protrusion (121) of the bottom plate (12).

Additionally, only one of the first and second filter filters (42, 44) may be provided in the tank (10), or a third filter not shown may be included.

The water supply pipe (25) may be arranged vertically so that a water inlet (26) is formed at the lower side and a water outlet (27) is formed at the upper side. Water discharged from the pump (20) may be introduced through the water inlet (26), transported, and then discharged through the water outlet (27).

Referring to FIG. 2, FIG. 6 to FIG. 8, the water supply plate (30) may be formed as a plate having a smooth upper surface (31), a water supply hole (32) may be formed in the central portion, a boss portion (33) protruding downward may be formed, and the water supply hole (32) may be formed to extend so as to penetrate the boss portion (33).

The water supply hole (32) can supply water supplied from the water supply pipe (25) to the upper surface (31) of the water supply plate (30).

Water moved to the upper side (31) of the water supply plate (30) through the water supply hole (32) can fall into the water tank (10) through the edge of the water supply plate (30). In this embodiment, a water receiver (50) is further provided to receive water falling from the edge of the water supply plate (30) and supply it into the water tank (10), so water moved to the upper side (31) of the water supply plate (30) through the water supply hole (32) can fall into the water receiver (50) through the edge of the water supply plate (30).

The water supply plate (30) is formed in a circular shape in the embodiment of the present invention, but may be formed in various other shapes.

The upper side (31) of the water supply plate (30) may be formed as a smooth surface whose height increases from the center to the edge (311), and the edge (311) may be formed with an edge protrusion (312) that slightly protrudes downward, and the upper part of the water supply hole (32) may be formed to have a diameter that gradually increases upward, and may be arranged so that at least a part of the nozzle plug (34) is inserted into the water supply hole (32).

The nozzle plug (34) may include a stem (341), a plurality of catch pieces (345) protruding outwardly from the stem (341) and spaced apart in a circumferential direction, and a head (342) formed on the upper side of the stem (341), and a head cover (343) that expands upward may be formed or coupled to the head (342).

The stem (341) of the nozzle plug (34) can be inserted into the water supply hole (32) so that the head cover (343) is slightly spaced upward from the water supply hole (32).

The water supply pipe (25) may be inserted at one end into the water supply hole (32) so that the water outlet (27) is connected to the water supply hole (32), or may be placed on the lower side of the water supply hole (32).

The above nozzle plug (34) can be supported so that the nozzle plug (34) is placed at a predetermined position in the water supply hole (32) by having a catch (345) protruding from the stem (341) come into contact with the wall surface around the water supply hole (32).

Accordingly, water discharged from the outlet (27) of the water supply pipe (25) hits the upper part of the nozzle plug (34) and is ejected in a ring shape through the water supply hole (32) and supplied to the center of the upper side (31) of the water supply plate, and the water supplied to the center of the upper side (31) flows along the upper side (31) toward the edge (311) and then falls vertically from the edge (311).

Meanwhile, the water supply plate (30) can be made of stainless steel or a light guide plate made of a transparent or translucent material, and can be formed to have a very thin thickness.

A plate support (36) that supports the water supply plate (30) can be placed on the lower side of the water supply plate (30), and the plate support (36) can be installed while being supported by a light-emitting body support (62) or a light guide plate (63) described later.

The plate support (36) may include an outer ring (361) that comes into contact with the outer portion and edge protrusion (312) of the water supply plate (30), a hub ring (362) located at the center, and a plurality of spokes (363) that connect the outer ring (361) and the hub ring (362), and a boss portion (364) may be formed to protrude in the lower direction of the hub ring (362).

The boss part (33) of the water supply plate (30) is inserted into the hole (365) formed in the hub ring (362) and boss part (364) of the plate support (36), and a packing ring (37) can be forcibly inserted between the boss part (33) formed in the water supply plate (30) and the boss part (364) formed in the plate support (36).

The water supply pipe (25) can be positioned on the lower side of the water supply plate (30) so that the water outlet (27) is connected to the water supply hole (32) of the water supply plate (30) by penetrating the partition plate (38) located on the lower side of the plate support (36).

Meanwhile, a third UV sterilizing filter (49) that sterilizes water passing through the water supply pipe (25) or discharged from the water outlet (27) may be placed around the water supply pipe (25), and the third UV sterilizing filter (49) may be formed in a cylindrical shape that is long in the vertical direction. The upper end of the water supply pipe (25) may pass through the third UV sterilizing filter (49).

The third UV sterilizing filter (49) may include a plurality of third UV LEDs (not shown) spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction. The third UV sterilizing filter (49) may sterilize water discharged from the outlet (27) of the water supply pipe (25) by diffusing light generated by the plurality of third UV LEDs. The plurality of third UV LEDs may be installed spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction so that light is irradiated upward onto the lower surface of the third UV sterilizing filter (49).

An expanded hole (331) may be formed on the lower side of the water supply hole (32) formed on the boss portion (33) of the water supply plate (30), and the upper portion (491) of the third UV sterilizing filter (49) may be inserted into the expanded hole (331), the packing ring (37) may be inserted between the boss portion (364) of the plate support (36) and the third UV sterilizing filter (49), and the lower portion of the third UV sterilizing filter (49) may be placed on the partition plate (38), and the water supply pipe (25) may pass through the interior of the third UV sterilizing filter (49).

The upper part of the third UV sterilizing filter (49) is installed at the same position as the outlet (27), which is the upper part of the water supply pipe (25), or is installed so as to cover a position higher than the outlet (27) of the water supply pipe (25), so that the sterilizing effect can be improved by directly irradiating UV light to the water discharged from the outlet (27).

Meanwhile, a reinforcing ring (39) may be placed on the bottom surface of the plate support (36), and the reinforcing ring (39) may be supported by a reinforcing rib (621) of a light-emitting body support (62) described later.

The water supply plate (30) can be detachably assembled to the inner assembly (100). That is, when the edge (311) of the water supply plate (30) is held and lifted, the water supply plate (30) can overcome the elastic force of the packing ring (37) and move upward to be separated from the plate support (36), and thus, it can be replaced with a water supply plate (30) having a different shape or height.

A lighting device (60) can be installed on the lower side of the water supply plate (30) and the plate support (36).

Referring to FIGS. 2, 6 and 7, the lighting device (60) may include a light emitting body (61), a support (62) on which the light emitting body (61) is installed, and a light guide plate (63) arranged on the outside of the light emitting body support (62), and the support (63) may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

The light guide plate (63) can be formed in a trumpet shape that is expanded upward, and the upper surface (63a) can be in contact with the edge protrusion (312) of the water supply plate (30) and the outer ring (361) of the plate support (36) as shown in FIG. 7, and the lower surface (63b) can be in contact with the partition plate (38).

The outer surface (631) of the light guide plate (63) forms a slope that gradually goes inward in a downward direction from the edge (311) of the water supply plate (30), so that water falling from the edge (311) of the water supply plate (30) can fall vertically without hitting the light guide plate (63).

The light emitting body (61) can be manufactured with a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) and attached to the light emitting body support (62) to form a predetermined shape of arrangement, or can be manufactured with a band-shaped light emitting diode and attached to the light emitting body support (62) to form a ring shape. The light emitting body (61) can be attached by being inserted into an inwardly recessed portion (62a) formed on the outer surface of the upper portion of the light emitting body support (62).

A reinforcing rib (621) is formed on the inner surface of the light-emitting body support (62) to support the reinforcing ring (39), a concave portion (622) that is recessed inwardly is formed on the lower portion, into which an inwardly protruding portion (632) formed on the lower end of the light guide plate (63) can be inserted, and a PCB (623) that controls the light emission of the light-emitting body (61) is formed to protrude inwardly on the lower portion of the light-emitting body support (62) so that it can be placed on the upper surface of the partition plate (38).

The above light-emitting body support (62), light guide plate (63), and partition plate (38) can be joined or fused to become one piece with each other, or can be assembled so as to be separable from each other.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 9, the water receiver (50) is positioned lower than the water supply plate (30) and is arranged to cover the open upper side of the water tank (10), so as to receive water falling from the edge (311) of the water supply plate (30) and discharge it into the water tank (10).

The water receiver (50) may include an outer wall (51) forming an outer edge, an inner wall (53) forming an inner edge and forming a drainage passage (52) between the outer wall (51), and a bottom wall (55) connecting the lower portions of the outer wall (51) and the inner wall (53).

A discharge hole (56) may be formed in the above bottom wall (55) to discharge water that has fallen from the water supply plate (30) to the water receiver (50) into the water tank (10), and the discharge hole (56) may be formed as one or more ring-shaped holes or circular holes formed along the circumference of the bottom wall (55).

A guide (54) protruding toward the outer wall (51) and inclined downward is formed on the inner wall (53). The guide (54) can receive water supplied from the water supply plate (30) and guide it downward. That is, water falling from the water supply plate (30) to the guide (54) can be guided downward along the guide (54). The guide (54) can be placed lower than the upper end of the outer wall (51).

In the embodiment of the present invention, the guide (54) is formed on the inner wall (53) of the water receiver (50), but the guide may also be formed on the outer wall (51) of the water receiver and protrude toward the inner wall (53).

Referring to FIG. 2, the upper portion of the guide (54) can be in contact with the lower end of the light guide plate (63), and a groove (541) is formed on the inner side of the upper portion of the guide (54), and the edge of the partition plate (38) is positioned in the groove (541), and then the light guide plate (63) can be placed on the upper portion of the guide (54) and the edge of the partition plate (38).

The light guide plate (63), the water receiver (50), and the partition plate (38) can be assembled so that they can be separated from each other by a known method, or can be fixedly joined to each other by a method such as adhesion or fusion, and if the water receiver (50) is assembled so that it can be separated, the water receiver (50) can be replaced with a water receiver having a different shape or height.

Referring to FIG. 9, the outer wall (51) of the water receiver (50) may have a protrusion (511) formed on the inner surface toward the guide (54), and the inner surface (512) of the outer wall extending upward from the protrusion (511) may be formed as an inclined surface that expands upward, and a drainage passage (521) with a narrow gap may be formed between the protrusion (511) and the guide (54).

Accordingly, water that falls from the water supply plate (30) to the water receiver (50) may stay on the guide (54) and the protrusion (511) for a while and then move downward through the narrow drainage passage (521).

A covering layer (59) of a different material from the water receiver (50) can be formed on the upper inner surface (512) of the upper side of the outer wall (51) and the upper surface of the protrusion (511), and the guide (54) can be formed of a different material from the water receiver (50) to improve the aesthetics, make the touch softer, and prevent falling water from scattering when it hits.

The upper end of the outer wall (51) of the water receiver may be formed to have a greater height than the inner wall (53), and as illustrated in FIG. 2, the outer wall (51) of the water receiver includes an upward protruding wall protruding upwardly from the water tank (10), and the upward protruding wall may protrude toward the outer perimeter of the water tank (10). The upward protruding wall may protrude upwardly from the upper side wall (11a) of the water tank (10), and may be formed to protrude toward the outer perimeter of the water tank (10) more than the upper side wall (11a) and be expanded than the upper side wall (11a). The upward protruding wall may form a predetermined angle (θ) with the upper side wall (11a) toward the outside. The predetermined angle (θ) may be 120°.

An upper slope (513) and a lower slope (514) having different slopes may be formed on the outer surface of the outer wall (51) of the water receiver (50). In addition, a step portion (515) may be further formed between the upper slope (513) and the lower slope (514) on the outer surface of the outer wall (51) of the water receiver (50).

The lower slope (514) can be an outer slope (514) supported by the inner slope (113) of the tank (10).

In addition, the step portion (515) of the water receiver (50) can be placed on the upper surface of the protruding wall (111, 112, 113) formed on the upper side wall (11a). That is, the step portion (515) can be positioned so as to be caught on the upper surface of the first protruding plate (111) formed on the upper side wall (11a).

The upper inclined surface (513) of the water receiver (50) can be supported by contacting the packing (115) attached to the upper side wall (11a).

Accordingly, the water receiver (50) can be firmly placed on the upper side of the water tank (30) while being hung on the upper side wall (11a) of the water tank (30).

Meanwhile, the bottom wall (55) of the water receiver (50) may be formed with a protruding projection (551) that protrudes inward from the inner wall (53), and the protruding projection (551) may be positioned above the edge of the upper filter cover (46) described above.

The protruding jaw portion (551) may protrude inwardly from the inner wall (53) of the water receiver (50) to form the bottom wall of the water receiver (50). The inner side of the protruding jaw portion (551) may be opened. The upper filter cover (46) may be coupled to the protruding jaw portion (551) to shield the opened inner side of the protruding jaw portion (551).

Referring to Fig. 2, a tank-sealed electrical room (S) can be formed between the upper filter cover (46), the inner wall (53) of the water receiver, and the partition plate (63), and an auxiliary battery (B) and a control unit (C) can be installed in the electrical room (S).

The protruding jaw (551) of the water receiver (50) and the upper filter cover (46) can be assembled so that they can be separated from each other by a known means such as a male or female hook or screw connection, or can be fixedly connected by fusion or adhesion.

The filter (40), pump (20), water supply pipe (25), water supply plate (30), lighting device (60), and water receiver (50) can be combined or assembled to form a single inner assembly (100).

Accordingly, since the inner assembly (100) is positioned so as to be detachable within the tank (10), the inner assembly (100) can be separated from the tank (10) to easily perform cleaning of the tank and maintenance work on various parts.

In addition, when the inner assembly (100) is installed in the water tank (10), the outer wall (51) of the water receiver (50) located at the upper edge of the inner assembly (100) is supported by being hung on the upper side wall (11a) of the water tank (30), and the lower filter cover (43) located at the lower center of the inner assembly (100) is placed on the protrusion (121) formed on the bottom plate (12) of the water tank and inserted into the groove (122), so that the inner assembly (100) can be stably installed at a predetermined position without moving within the water tank (10), and when the outer wall (51) of the water receiver (50) is held and lifted to the upper side of the water tank (10), the inner assembly (100) can be separated from the water tank (10).

Next, a power supply device for operating the above pet waterer is described.

Referring to FIG. 3 and FIG. 10, the power supply device of the pet waterer includes a docking station (71), and the docking station (71) may include a weight (711) having a considerable weight, a cylindrical protrusion (712) formed at the center of the weight (711), a first connection terminal (not shown) arranged on the protrusion (712), and a wire (713) for applying external power to the first connection terminal.

A circular groove (182) may be formed on the bottom surface of the base (18) of the tank (10) to be inserted into the protruding bar (712) of the weight body, and a second connection terminal (not shown) connected to the first connection terminal may be arranged in the circular groove (182).

Meanwhile, the base (18) can be rotatably mounted on the weight body (711), and the circular groove (182) can be rotatably inserted into the protruding bar (712), so that even when the tank (10) and the docking station (71) are relatively rotated, the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal can be arranged to maintain an electrically connected state.

Accordingly, even when the tank (10) is rotated, power supply for operating the water supply device can be maintained without the wire (713) becoming tangled.

A power circuit unit (715) electrically connected to the second connection terminal can be installed in the space formed between the bottom plate (12), the base (18), and the lower edge wall (11b) of the water tank (10).

In an embodiment of the present invention, a wireless power transmission unit (72) electrically connected to the power circuit unit (715) may be installed on the lower side of the bottom plate (12) of the water tank (10), and a wireless power reception unit (73) that generates an induced voltage by responding to the wireless power transmission unit (72) may be installed inside the water tank (10).

The wireless power transmitter (72) is positioned in a space within a protrusion (121) formed on the bottom plate (12), and the wireless power receiver (73) is positioned between the lower filter cover (43) and the pump (20) located above the protrusion (121).

When the inner assembly (100) is installed in the tank (10) with the lower filter cover (43) covered over the protrusion (121) of the bottom plate (12), the wireless power receiver (73) should be placed in a position where it can receive wireless power from the wireless power transmitter (72) and generate inductive power.

Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 2 and FIG. 10, various parts installed in the space formed between the bottom plate (12) of the water tank (10), the base (18), and the lower edge wall (11b) of the water tank (10) are described as follows.

The base (18) can cover the lower side of the lower edge wall (11b). The base (18) can be formed as a circular plate.

An insertion projection (186) may be formed protruding on the upper surface of the base (18). The insertion projection (186) may be formed protruding upward at the center of the base (18). The insertion projection (186) may be formed in a circular shape.

A ventilation hole (181) may be formed in the base (18). A plurality of ventilation holes (181) may be formed so as to be open upward and downward. The plurality of ventilation holes (181) may be arranged radially along the circumferential direction of the base (18). The plurality of ventilation holes (181) may be formed spaced apart from the insertion protrusion (186).

An internal space (119) with upper and lower sides open may be formed in the lower edge wall (11b). The lower edge wall (11b) may be formed in a ring shape. An edge surface (117) may be formed to protrude on the inner surface of the lower edge wall (11b). The internal space (119) may be defined as a space located inward from the edge surface (117).

The edge surface (117) may have an upper side positioned below the upper side of the lower edge wall (11b), and a lower side positioned above the lower side of the lower edge wall (11b). A thermoelectric element (81) may be arranged on the upper side of the edge surface (117), and a bottom plate (12) may be arranged on the upper side of the thermoelectric element (81). In addition, a ring-shaped warning light (91) may be installed on the lower side of the edge surface (117), and a base (18) may be arranged below the warning light (91).

The thermoelectric element (81) can cover the open upper side of the internal space (119). The base (18) can cover the open lower side of the internal space (119).

A thermoelectric element (81) can be placed between the bottom plate (12) and the base (18). The thermoelectric element (81) can cool or heat water stored in the water tank (10).

The thermoelectric element (81) can be placed on the lower side of the bottom plate (12) of the water tank (10). The thermoelectric element (81) can maintain the temperature of water stored in the water tank (10) at a predetermined temperature.

A heat sink (84) may be placed in the internal space (119) of the lower edge wall (11b). In addition, a heat sink fan (83) may be placed in the internal space (119) of the lower edge wall (11b). In addition, a motor (82) for rotating the heat sink fan (83) may be installed between the floor plate (12) and the base (18).

A plurality of heat dissipation fins (845) may be formed to protrude upwardly on the upper edge of the heat dissipation plate (84). The upper surface of the plurality of heat dissipation fins (845) may be in contact with the lower surface of the thermoelectric element (81), thereby allowing heat generated from the thermoelectric element (81) to be exchanged with the surrounding air of the plurality of heat dissipation fins (845).

A plurality of heat dissipation fins (845) may be formed in a plurality along the circumference of the heat dissipation plate (84). In this embodiment, the heat dissipation plate (84) is formed in a circular shape. Accordingly, a plurality of heat dissipation fins (845) may be arranged in the circumferential direction of the heat dissipation plate (84) so that the overall shape may be annular.

A heat dissipation fan (83) may be arranged on the inner side of a plurality of heat dissipation fins (845). The heat dissipation fan (83) may suck in air in the axial direction of the motor (82) and discharge it in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. Accordingly, the heat dissipation fan (83) may suck in air in the axial direction and then discharge it toward a plurality of heat dissipation fins (845) arranged on the outer side.

An insertion hole (846) that connects vertically is formed in the center of the heat sink (84). An insertion projection (186) formed in the center of the base (18) is inserted into the insertion hole (846). By inserting the insertion projection (186) into the insertion hole (846), the base (18) can be coupled to the heat sink (84). In order to ensure that the base (18) can be firmly coupled to the heat sink (84), a hook that catches on the upper surface of the heat sink (84) when the insertion projection (186) is inserted into the insertion hole (846) can be formed in the insertion projection (186).

A hollow portion (811) in which a motor (82) is installed may be formed in the thermoelectric element (81). The hollow portion (811) may be formed in the center of the thermoelectric element (81). A heat dissipation fan (83) may be arranged below the motor (82) and may be operated by the motor (82). A plurality of heat dissipation fins (845) may be installed around the heat dissipation fan (83).

Additionally, a water temperature sensor (85) may be further placed between the bottom plate (12) and the base (18). The water temperature sensor (85) can detect the temperature of water stored in the tank.

The water temperature sensor (85) can be installed in the space inside the protrusion (121) of the bottom plate (12) of the water tank (10). If the temperature of the water in the water tank (10) detected by the water temperature sensor (85) is not within the set range, the thermoelectric element (81) is operated to cool or heat the water, and the heat of the thermoelectric element (81) can be dissipated through the heat sink (84).

When the temperature of the thermoelectric element (81) is higher than the reference temperature or the temperature of the heat sink (84) is higher than the predetermined temperature, the motor (82) can be operated to rotate the heat sink fan (83).

When the heat dissipation fan (83) rotates, outside air is drawn in through the ventilation hole (181) formed in the base (18), passes through the heat dissipation plate (84), and then is discharged to the outside through the ventilation hole (181) formed in the base (18), so the heat dissipation plate (84) and the thermoelectric element (81) can be cooled.

The water temperature sensor (85) is installed inside the protrusion (121) of the bottom plate (12) which has a large contact area with the water stored in the tank (10) and through which water moves toward the pump (20), so it can accurately detect the temperature of the water stored in the tank (10).

In addition, a water level sensor (86) may be further placed between the bottom plate (12) and the base (18). A groove (118) may be formed on the edge surface (117) of the lower edge wall (11b) of the water tank (10), and a water level sensor (86) may be installed in the groove (118).

The water level sensor (86) may be a strain gage that detects the weight of water stored in the water tank (10) applied to the bottom plate (12) of the water tank (10), and the water level in the water tank (10) may be determined by the weight of water in the water tank (10) detected by the load sensor.

In addition, a proximity sensor (87) for detecting a pet may be further placed between the floor plate (12) and the base (18). The proximity sensor (87) may be installed on the inside of the lower edge wall (11b). The proximity sensor (87) may be installed on the inside of the edge surface (117). The signal of the proximity sensor (87) may be transmitted through a hole (11H) formed in the lower edge wall (11b) or a signal-transmitting film installed in the lower edge wall (11b), thereby detecting a pet approaching the waterer.

When the proximity sensor (87) detects a pet, the control unit (C) can operate the pump (20).

Proximity sensors (87) may be provided in multiple numbers. Each of the multiple proximity sensors (87) can detect a pet. When each of the multiple proximity sensors (87) detects a pet, the control unit (C) determines that multiple pets have approached the waterer, and can increase the pumping capacity of the pump (20) compared to when one proximity sensor (87) detects a pet.

In addition, a gyro sensor (88) for detecting the inclination of the water tank (10) may be further placed between the bottom plate (12) and the base (18). The gyro sensor (88) may be installed inside the edge surface (117). The gyro sensor (88) may be provided in multiple numbers to detect the inclination, and the sum of the inclinations detected in multiple numbers may be averaged to determine the final inclination of the water tank (10).

Meanwhile, although not specifically illustrated in the embodiment of the present invention, a support leg part whose height can be adjusted is provided at the lower part of the water tank (10), and when the inclination of the water tank (10) detected by the gyro sensor (88) is determined to be above a predetermined value, the control unit (C) can adjust the height of the support leg part to correct the inclination of the water tank (10).

A warning light (91) can be installed on the lower part of the lower border wall (11b), and when the water level in the tank detected by the water level sensor (86) is below a predetermined value, the control unit (C) can turn on the warning light (91) to notify the outside of this.

The above warning light (91) may be a ring-shaped light-emitting diode. The warning light (91) may be installed on the lower side of the edge surface (117).

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a plurality of proximity sensors (87) can detect a pet approaching the pet waterer. A plurality of proximity sensors (87) can detect a pet within a predetermined distance range. A plurality of proximity sensors (87) can detect a pet within a predetermined distance range and input a detection signal to a control unit (C), and the control unit (C) can control a pump (20) using the detection signal input from the plurality of proximity sensors (87).

The control unit (C) can operate the pump (20) when at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) detects a pet for a set period of time or longer. When the pump (20) operates, the water stored in the tank (10) can be supplied to the upper side of the water supply plate (30) through the water supply pipe (25). The pet can lick the water supplied to the upper side of the water supply plate (30) with its tongue and drink it.

Here, the reason why the control unit (C) operates the pump (20) when at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) detects a pet for more than the set time is to operate the pump (20) only when it is determined that the pet has come near the pet waterer to drink water. That is, since the pet may not approach the pet waterer to drink water, but may simply pass by the pet waterer, in order not to operate the pump (20) in such a case, the control unit (C) operates the pump (20) when at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) detects a pet for more than the set time.

Proximity sensors (87) may be provided in multiple locations along the perimeter of the pet waterer. In this embodiment, multiple proximity sensors (87) are installed on the inside of the lower rim wall (11b). However, the installation positions of the multiple proximity sensors (87) are not limited to the inside of the lower rim wall (11b), and may be changed to various positions of the pet waterer.

A plurality of proximity sensors (87) can be installed in the tank. Hereinafter, the description will be limited to the case where the plurality of proximity sensors (87) are installed on the inner side of the lower border wall (11b).

Proximity sensors (87) may be provided in multiple locations spaced apart from each other along the circumference of the lower edge wall (11b). Since the lower edge wall (11b) is formed in a ring shape, proximity sensors (87) may be provided in multiple locations spaced apart from each other along the circumference of the lower edge wall (11b).

In this embodiment, the plurality of proximity sensors (87) are provided in four units. However, the number of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) is not limited to four, and two or more may be provided along the perimeter of the lower border wall (11b).

Hereinafter, the description will be limited to the multiple proximity sensors (87) being provided in a number of four, spaced apart from each other along the perimeter of the lower edge wall (11b).

The plurality of proximity sensors (87) include a first proximity sensor (87A), a second proximity sensor (87B), a third proximity sensor (87C), and a fourth proximity sensor (87D).

The first proximity sensor (87A), the second proximity sensor (87B), the third proximity sensor (87C), and the fourth proximity sensor (87D) can be sequentially arranged along the perimeter of the lower edge wall (11b). The first proximity sensor (87A), the second proximity sensor (87B), the third proximity sensor (87C), and the fourth proximity sensor (87D) can be arranged at equal intervals along the perimeter of the lower edge wall (11b). In the present embodiment, the first proximity sensor (87A), the second proximity sensor (87B), the third proximity sensor (87C), and the fourth proximity sensor (87D) can be arranged at 90-degree intervals along the perimeter of the lower edge wall (11b). The first proximity sensor (87A) and the third proximity sensor (87C) may be positioned opposite each other, and the second proximity sensor (87B) and the fourth proximity sensor (87D) may be positioned opposite each other.

If any one of the first proximity sensor (87A), the second proximity sensor (87B), the third proximity sensor (87C), and the fourth proximity sensor (87D) detects a pet for a set period of time or longer, the control unit (C) determines that a pet has approached the pet waterer to drink water, and operates the pump (20) at the first pumping capacity.

If, during the operation of the pump (20), none of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) detects a pet for a set period of time or longer, the control unit (C) determines that the pet has finished drinking water and moved away from the pet waterer, and stops the operation of the pump (20).

If the first proximity sensor (87A), the second proximity sensor (87B), the third proximity sensor (87C), and the fourth proximity sensor (87D) do not detect the pet for a set period of time or longer, the control unit (C) determines that the pet has finished drinking water and moved away from the pet waterer, and can stop the operation of the pump (20).

When the number of proximity sensors (87) that detect pets for a set period of time or longer during the operation of the pump (20) increases, the control unit (C) determines that the number of pets approaching the pet waterer to drink water has increased, and thus increases the pumping capacity of the pump (20). The control unit (C) can increase the pumping capacity of the pump (20) by increasing the rotational speed of the rotor of the pump (20). Increasing the pumping capacity of the pump (20) may have the same meaning as increasing the rotational speed of the rotor of the pump (20).

When the number of proximity sensors (87) that detect pets for a set period of time or longer during the operation of the pump (20) decreases, the control unit (C) determines that some of the pets have finished drinking water and moved away from the pet waterer, and thus reduces the pumping capacity of the pump (20). The control unit (C) can reduce the pumping capacity of the pump (20) by reducing the rotational speed of the rotor of the pump (20). Reducing the pumping capacity of the pump (20) may have the same meaning as reducing the rotational speed of the rotor of the pump (20).

For example, if two of the first proximity sensor (87A), the second proximity sensor (87B), the third proximity sensor (87C), and the fourth proximity sensor (87D) detect pets for a set period of time or longer during the operation of the pump (20), the control unit (C) determines that two pets have approached the pet waterer to drink water, and operates the pump (20) at a second pumping capacity that is greater than the first pumping capacity.

In addition, when three of the first proximity sensor (87A), the second proximity sensor (87B), the third proximity sensor (87C), and the fourth proximity sensor (87D) detect pets for a set period of time or longer while the pump (20) is in operation, the control unit (C) determines that three pets have approached the pet waterer to drink water, and operates the pump (20) at a third pumping capacity that is greater than the second pumping capacity.

In addition, when the first proximity sensor (87A), the second proximity sensor (87B), the third proximity sensor (87C), and the fourth proximity sensor (87D) all detect pets for more than the set time while the pump (20) is in operation, the control unit (C) determines that four pets have approached the pet waterer to drink water, and operates the pump (20) at a fourth pumping capacity that is greater than the third pumping capacity.

The control unit (C) receives a signal from the proximity sensor (87) and determines whether the pet has approached the pet waterer within a predetermined distance range. If it is determined that the pet has approached within the predetermined distance range, the pump (20) is operated to supply water. If it is determined that the pet has not approached within the predetermined distance range, the pump (20) can be stopped from operating. Here, the control unit (C) can operate the pump (20) only when the pet continues to approach within the predetermined distance range for a set period of time or longer.

In addition, the control unit (C) receives signals from multiple proximity sensors (87) and, when it is determined that multiple pets have approached, increases the pumping capacity of the pump (20) to correspond to the number of pets that have approached, thereby supplying sufficient water to all pets.

In addition, the control unit (C) continuously stores the operating time of the pump (20) according to the signal of the proximity sensor (87), analyzes it, and determines the regular water drinking time and water supply amount of the pet from time to time, and operates the pump (20) so that the water supply amount is provided at the determined water supply time.

Referring to FIG. 12, in the control method of the pet waterer according to the embodiment of the present invention, in the pet detection step (S1), at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) detects the pet.

Thereafter, the control unit (C) determines whether the time for which at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) detects the companion animal is longer than the set time. That is, in the determination step (S2), the control unit (C) determines whether the time for which at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) detects the companion animal is longer than the set time.

As a result of the judgment step (S2), if the time for which at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) detects the pet is less than the set time, the control unit (C) determines that the pet briefly approached the pet waterer and then moved away from the pet waterer, and returns the logic to the pet detection step (S1).

In addition, as a result of the judgment step (S2), if the time for which at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) detects the pet is longer than the set time, the control unit (C) determines that the pet has approached the pet waterer and is staying there to drink water, and can operate the pump (20). That is, in the pump operation step (S3), if at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) detects the pet for longer than the set time, the control unit (C) determines that the pet has approached the pet waterer and is staying there to drink water, and operates the pump (20). In other words, in the pump operation step (S3), if the set time has passed after at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) begins to detect the pet, the control unit (C) determines that the pet has approached the pet waterer and is staying there to drink water, and operates the pump (20).

After the above pump operation step (S3), the control unit (C) determines whether the plurality of proximity sensors (87) do not detect the companion animal for a set period of time or longer. That is, in the determination step (S4), the control unit (C) determines whether the plurality of proximity sensors (87) do not detect the companion animal for a set period of time or longer.

As a result of the judgment step (S4), if at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) detects the pet for a set period of time or longer, the control unit (C) determines that the pet is continuously drinking water from the pet waterer, and returns the logic to the pump operation step (S3).

In addition, as a result of the judgment step (S4), if none of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) detect the companion animal for a set period of time, the control unit (C) determines that the companion animal has moved away from the companion animal waterer after drinking water from the companion animal waterer, and stops the operation of the pump (20). That is, in the pump stop step (S5), if none of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) detect the companion animal for a set period of time, the control unit (C) determines that the companion animal has moved away from the companion animal waterer after drinking water from the companion animal waterer, and stops the operation of the pump (20). In other words, in the pump stop step (S5), if none of the plurality of proximity sensors (C) detect the companion animal for a set period of time, the control unit (C) determines that the companion animal has moved away from the companion animal waterer after drinking water from the companion animal waterer, and stops the operation of the pump (20) and terminates the logic.

Meanwhile, after the pump operation step (S3), the control unit (C) determines whether the number of proximity sensors (87) that detect a pet for a set time or longer has increased. That is, in the determination step (S6), the control unit (C) determines whether the number of proximity sensors (87) that detect a pet for a set time or longer has increased.

As a result of the judgment step (S6), if the number of proximity sensors (87) that detect pets for a set period of time or longer does not increase, the control unit (C) determines that the number of pets coming to drink water from the pet waterer has not increased, and returns the logic to the pump operation step (S3).

In addition, as a result of the judgment step (S6), if the number of proximity sensors (87) that detect companion animals for a set period of time or longer increases, the control unit (C) determines that the number of companion animals coming to drink water from the companion animal waterer has increased, and thus increases the pumping capacity of the pump (20). That is, in the pumping capacity increase step (S7), if the number of proximity sensors (87) that detect companion animals for a set period of time or longer increases, the control unit (C) determines that the number of companion animals coming to drink water from the companion animal waterer has increased, and thus increases the pumping capacity of the pump (20) and returns the logic to the judgment step (S4).

Meanwhile, after the pump operation step (S3), the control unit (C) determines whether the number of proximity sensors (87) that detect a pet for a set time or longer has decreased. That is, in the determination step (S8), the control unit (C) determines whether the number of proximity sensors (87) that detect a pet for a set time or longer has decreased.

As a result of the judgment step (S8), if the number of proximity sensors (87) that detect pets for a set period of time or longer does not decrease, the control unit (C) determines that the number of pets coming to drink water from the pet waterer has not decreased, and returns the logic to the pump operation step (S3).

In addition, as a result of the judgment step (S8), if the number of proximity sensors (87) that detect companion animals for a set period of time or longer decreases, the control unit (C) determines that the number of companion animals coming to drink water from the companion animal waterer has decreased, and thus reduces the pumping capacity of the pump (20). That is, in the pumping capacity reduction step (S9), if the number of proximity sensors (87) that detect companion animals for a set period of time or longer decreases, the control unit (C) determines that the number of companion animals coming to drink water from the companion animal waterer has decreased, and thus reduces the pumping capacity of the pump (20) and returns the logic to the judgment step (S4).

As described above, according to the control device and control method of the pet waterer according to the embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of proximity sensors (87) are installed spaced apart from each other along the perimeter of the pet waterer to detect a pet within a predetermined distance range, and the control unit (C) operates the pump (20) when at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors (87) detects the pet for a set period of time or longer. Therefore, since the pump (20) is operated only when the pet approaches the pet waterer and stays there for a set period of time or longer, power consumption can be reduced.

In addition, according to the control device and control method of the pet waterer according to the embodiment of the present invention, the pumping capacity of the pump (20) is adjusted according to the number of proximity sensors (87) that detect the pet for the set time or longer while the pump (20) is in operation, so the pumping capacity of the pump (20) can be adjusted according to the number of pets that approach the pet waterer and stay there for the set time or longer.

While the embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the gist of the present invention as claimed in the claims. Furthermore, such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical idea or prospect of the present invention.

10 : Tank 11 : Side wall
11b: Lower border wall 11H: Hole
12 : Floor plate 20 : Pump
25: Water supply pipe 30: Water supply plate
40 : Filter 50 : Water Tray
87 : Proximity sensor 117 : Edge surface
C: Control unit

Claims (20)

A pet waterer comprising a tank for storing water and a pump installed within the tank; and
A plurality of proximity sensors are installed spaced apart from each other along the perimeter of the pet waterer and detect a pet within a predetermined distance range;
The above tank includes a bottom plate and side walls,
The above side wall includes a lower border wall positioned lower than the floor plate,
The above plurality of proximity sensors are installed on the inner side of the lower frame wall,
An edge surface is formed protruding on the inner surface of the lower edge wall,
The above proximity sensor is a control device of a pet waterer installed inside the edge surface. In claim 1,
A control device for a pet waterer, further comprising a control unit installed in the pet waterer and operating the pump when at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors detects the pet for a set period of time or longer. In claim 2,
The above control unit is a control device of a pet waterer that stops the operation of the pump if none of the plurality of proximity sensors detects a pet for a set period of time during the operation of the pump. In claim 2,
The above control unit is a control device of a pet waterer that increases the pumping capacity of the pump when the number of the plurality of proximity sensors that detect pets for more than the set time increases during the operation of the pump. In claim 2,
The above control unit is a control device of a pet waterer that reduces the pumping capacity of the pump when the number of the plurality of proximity sensors that detect pets for more than the set time decreases during the operation of the pump.
delete In claim 1,
A control device for a pet waterer, wherein a hole is formed in the lower frame wall through which a signal from the proximity sensor is transmitted. In claim 1,
The above pet waterer is,
A water supply pipe through which water discharged from the above pump is transported,
A control device for a pet waterer further comprising a water supply plate positioned above the water tank and having an upper side through which water supplied from the water supply pipe flows. In claim 8,
The above pet waterer is,
A control device for a pet waterer, the control device further including a water receiver arranged to cover the open upper side of the water tank, arranged below the water supply plate, and receiving water from the water supply plate and discharging it into the water tank. In claim 8,
Further comprising a filter for filtering water stored in the tank;
The above pump is a control device of a pet waterer placed inside the above filter. A method for controlling a pet waterer including a tank storing water and a pump installed in the tank,
A pet detection step in which at least one of a plurality of proximity sensors, which are installed spaced apart from each other along the perimeter of the pet waterer and detect a pet within a predetermined distance range, detects the pet;
A pump operation step for operating the pump when at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors detects the pet;
The above tank includes a bottom plate and side walls,
The above side wall includes a lower border wall positioned lower than the floor plate,
The above plurality of proximity sensors are installed on the inner side of the lower frame wall,
An edge surface is formed protruding on the inner surface of the lower edge wall,
The above proximity sensor is a control method of a pet waterer installed inside the edge surface. In claim 11,
A control method for a pet waterer that operates the pump when at least one of the plurality of proximity sensors detects the pet for a set period of time or longer in the above pump operation step. In claim 12,
A control method for a pet waterer further comprising a pump stop step for stopping the operation of the pump if none of the plurality of proximity sensors detects a pet for a set period of time after the pump operation step. In claim 12,
A control method for a pet waterer, further comprising a pumping capacity increasing step of increasing the pumping capacity of the pump when the number of the plurality of proximity sensors that detect pets for the set time or longer after the pump operation step increases. In claim 12,
A control method for a pet waterer, further comprising a pumping capacity reduction step of reducing the pumping capacity of the pump when the number of the plurality of proximity sensors that detect pets for a set period of time or longer after the pump operation step is reduced.
delete In claim 11,
A control method for a pet waterer, wherein a hole through which a signal of the proximity sensor is transmitted is formed in the lower frame wall. In claim 11,
The above pet waterer is,
A water supply pipe through which water discharged from the above pump is transported,
A method for controlling a pet waterer further comprising a water supply plate disposed above the water tank and having an upper side through which water supplied from the water supply pipe flows. In claim 18,
The above pet waterer is,
A method for controlling a pet waterer, the pet waterer further comprising a water receiver arranged to cover the open upper side of the water tank, arranged below the water supply plate, and receiving water from the water supply plate and discharging it into the water tank. In claim 18,
Further comprising a filter for filtering water stored in the tank;
The above pump is a control method for a pet waterer placed inside the above filter.

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