Low power toilet tank leak detection device

Abstract

A low power leak detection device for a toilet tank includes a water level switch having a float disposed in the toilet tank. The float moves from a starting position to a lower position as the water level in the toilet tank moves. The electronic circuit is configured to be electrically disconnected from a power source when the float is in the starting position. The electronic circuit is configured to be electrically connected to a power source when the float is in the lower position and to activate a timer having a preset time limit, and if the preset time limit is reached, to send an alarm signal to an alarm indicator. The alarm indicator notifies residents of a possible water leak problem, which can be addressed. The low power leak detection device uses power only when the water level drops, thereby greatly extending the life of the battery and the usefulness of the device.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This non-provisional application claims priority to provisional application 62 / 900426 filed on September 13, 2019, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to leak detection of toilet tanks. More particularly, the present invention relates to a low cost and low power consumption device for leak detection of toilet tanks. Background Art

[0004] Water usage studies and data clearly show that the majority of water wasted in residential settings is due to leaking and malfunctioning toilets. These leaks are mostly unnoticed because the wasted water goes down the drain and because toilets are often left unattended for long periods of time.

[0005] The water level in the toilet tank should remain full unless the toilet is flushed or the tank loses water due to a leak. It is recommended that the toilet installer or resident set the toilet fill level to a level below the overflow line, otherwise the toilet fill valve will continue to fill the toilet tank with water, which will eventually be flushed through the toilet bowl, resulting in wasted water and costs.

[0006] However, even when such a toilet fill level is set correctly, problems can occur over time. For example, during use, the adjustment of the toilet fill valve can sometimes change due to age, water quality and minerals, environmental conditions, or exposure to excessive water pressure. There are at least three main types of leaks in toilet tanks that account for almost all water waste.

[0007] First, small leaks can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as cracks in the tank body, leaking flappers that may drip water into the toilet bowl, or damaged seals. The drop in the water level in the toilet tank due to such leaks is usually much slower than the drop rate of the toilet flush, which makes it more difficult to identify them. Second, the flapper can simply get stuck in the open position and go unnoticed by the resident. In this case, the fill valve constantly attempts to fill the toilet tank, but only flushes water through the toilet bowl. Third, there may be an overfilling situation caused by loss of the original fill valve setting or failure. For example, the toilet fill valve may become inoperable over time, so that water is always introduced into the toilet bowl even though the toilet tank is full. In this case, the water is flushed through the overflow pipe and is wasted again. Therefore, a device that can notify the user of the existence of this situation is needed. Some devices attempt to solve this situation, but have many other disadvantages, such as short life, consumption of a lot of power and / or other disadvantages not discussed.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for a toilet tank leak detection device with low power consumption. The present invention meets these needs and provides other related advantages. Summary of the invention

[0009] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention is a low power toilet tank leak detection device 30 as disclosed herein. The leak detection device 30 is intended for use with a toilet tank 31, but may also be used for other tanks. A support structure 32 is configured to fix the leak detection device relative to the toilet tank. A water level switch 28 is attached to the support structure, which is configured to be disposed within the toilet tank. The water level switch includes a float 23, which is configured to be buoyant when placed on a water source. The float is configured to float on a water level 25 within the toilet tank, and as the water level 25 at least partially moves from a starting position to a first non-starting position, the first non-starting position is lower or higher relative to the starting position. An electronic circuit 39 is attached to the support structure. The electronic circuit includes a power supply 41 and a timer 40, wherein the electronic circuit is electrically connected to the water level switch. The electronic circuit is configured to be electrically disconnected from the power supply when the water level switch is in the starting position. When the water level switch is in the first non-starting position, the electronic circuit is configured to be electrically connected to the power supply. The timer is configured to be activated when the water level switch is in the first non-start position and the electronic circuit is electrically connected to the power supply. The timer includes a preset time limit, wherein if the preset time limit is reached and / or exceeded, the electronic circuit is configured to send an alarm signal to the alarm indicator 42. Other exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be discussed further below.

[0010] The support structure may be formed as or include a bracket 32 ​​configured to secure the leak detection device to a toilet tank or an overflow pipe within a toilet tank.

[0011] The timer may include a second preset time limit, wherein if the second preset time limit is reached and / or exceeded, the electronic circuit is configured to disconnect from the power supply. The second preset time limit may start when the first preset time limit is reached and / or exceeded.

[0012] Alternatively, another embodiment of the present invention may be configured to automatically disconnect power to the electronic circuit after the alarm signal has been sent, so that the second preset time limit is not required.

[0013] The alarm indicator may be attached to the support structure, wherein the alarm indicator is configured to be at least partially disposed on the exterior of the toilet tank. The alarm indicator may include a visual alarm 45 / 48, wherein the visual alarm may include an LED 45 and / or wherein the visual alarm may include a mechanical display 48 (such as a pop-up reset button) that is configured to remain displayed even when power is disconnected from the electronic circuit.

[0014] The alarm indicator may include a speaker 44 (buzzer) configured to sound an audible alarm.

[0015] The alarm indicator may include a transmitter 54, wherein the transmitter is configured to receive an alarm signal and send a wireless alarm signal to an electronic device such as a smart phone or a computer. In such an embodiment, the alarm indicator may be configured to be completely disposed within the toilet tank.

[0016] The power source 41 may be a battery, such as a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. Alternatively, the power source may be hardwired to an electrical outlet in a residence or come from solar energy.

[0017] In one embodiment, the water level switch 28 can include a vertically oriented support 20 including a reed switch 14 having a longitudinal axis 29 aligned along the longitudinal length 19 of the vertically oriented support. A float can move up and down along the vertically oriented support, wherein the float includes an annular magnet 10. The annular magnet includes a north pole annular portion N adjacent to a south pole annular portion S, wherein the central axis 12 of the annular magnet is aligned with the longitudinal axis 29 of the reed switch 14.

[0018] The vertically oriented support may include a lower stop 27 configured to prevent the float from moving below the lower stop when the water level in the toilet tank drops further below, wherein the float adjacent the lower stop is in the first non-starting position.

[0019] The float may be configured to float on a water level within the toilet tank and as the water level moves at least partially from a starting position to a second, non-starting position, the second, non-starting position being higher relative to the starting position.

[0020] The vertically oriented support may include an upper stop 26 configured to prevent the float from moving above the upper stop when the water level in the toilet tank rises further above, wherein the float abutting the upper stop is in the second non-starting position.

[0021] The vertically oriented support 20 may be adjustable up and down relative to the support structure by using a screw 36 having a knurled head 37 or the like, wherein the support 20 may be adjusted to move within the channel 35 .

[0022] In one embodiment, the electronic circuit may include a counter 57, wherein the counter is configured to display how many times the leak detection device has been activated. The counter may include a counter reset button 58, wherein the counter reset button is configured to reset the counter back to a starting count when activated.

[0023] In the illustrated embodiment, the leak detection device does not include a microprocessor, and in other embodiments not shown, a microprocessor may be used.

[0024] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The accompanying drawings illustrate the present invention. In such drawings:

[0026] Figure 1A is a perspective view of an axially magnetized ring magnet;

[0027] Figure 1B is a perspective view of a diametrically magnetized ring magnet;

[0028] Figure 2 is a cross-section through an axially magnetized ring magnet showing magnetic field lines;

[0029] Figure 3A is a cross-sectional view of a reed switch in an open position;

[0030] Figure 3B is in closed position Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of a reed switch;

[0031] Figure 4A yes Figure 2 and Figure 3A a cross-sectional view of the combined structure, wherein the reed switch is disposed in the center of the ring magnet and is therefore open;

[0032] Figure 4B yes Figure 2 and Figure 3B a cross-sectional view of the combined structure, wherein the reed switch is disposed below the center of the ring magnet and is therefore closed;

[0033] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of a water level switch used in the present invention;

[0034] Fig. 6A Shows Figure 5 A water level switch in which the float does not close the reed switch;

[0035] Figure 6B Shows Figure 5 a water level switch in which a float is lowered and thereby closes a reed switch;

[0036] Figure 6C Shows Figure 5 A water level switch in which a float rises and thereby closes a reed switch;

[0037] Figure 7 is a side cross-sectional view through a toilet tank showing the present invention disposed in the toilet tank;

[0038] Figure 8 is a simplified embodiment of the alarm indicator used in the present invention;

[0039] Fig. 9 Shows the currently active Figure 8 structure; and

[0040] Fig.10 is an electrical schematic diagram of one embodiment of a circuit used in the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Embodiments of the present device utilize ring magnets and reed switches, therefore, a discussion of these components is appropriate at the beginning of this detailed description. Generally, there are two types of ring magnets, wherein the first type of ring magnet 10 is axially magnetized and Figure 1A As can be seen, the north pole is marked as N and the south pole is marked as S. The second type of annular magnet 11 is radially magnetized and Figure 1B It can be seen how the magnetization poles are perpendicular to Figure 1A The magnetization poles. Figure 1B In FIG. 1 , the left half is labeled N for the north pole and the right half is labeled S for the south pole. Each of these types of ring magnets produces a different magnetic field due to the different orientations of the poles. The type of ring magnet used in the embodiments discussed and illustrated herein is Figure 1A Axially magnetized ring magnet.

[0042] Figure 2 A cross-sectional side view through an axially magnetized ring magnet 10 is shown, now showing the magnetic field lines. Also shown are the x-axis and y-axis, whose center corresponds to the center of the ring magnet 10. The y-axis is also the central axis 12 (centerline) of the ring magnet 10. It can be seen how the magnetic field lines form loops at the ends of the radius of the ring magnet, where the magnetic field lines escape outward from the middle portion of the ring magnet.

[0043] It is noteworthy that there is a transition field line (position C) where the circular field line changes to a field line extending outward. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the lines specifying the transition field lines where the magnetic field changes from bending inward or outward are only imaginary positions and not actual field lines, because otherwise the north field line would couple with itself. Instead, the transition field lines are drawn for the reader's understanding so that they understand where there is a transition between the various field lines.

[0044] Position A is the intersection of the x-axis and the y-axis. It can be seen that the magnetic field lines from north to south are aligned downward along the y-axis. All field lines in the x-axis are effectively canceled or non-existent. As the ratio of the inner radius Ri to the outer radius Ro increases, the width of the magnetic field in the y-axis direction increases. As the thickness T increases, the length of the magnetic field in the y-axis direction increases. In other words, as the position moves from the intersection of the xy axes along the x-axis toward the inner surface of the ring magnet (as shown in position B), the direction of the magnetic field becomes less linear. This characteristic changes further when the relevant position moves up or down from the x-axis (as shown in position C). In addition, this characteristic changes further when the position moves up or down along the x and y axes (as shown in position D). Importantly, as shown at position C, the direction of the magnetic field becomes completely different, and the direction of the magnetic field is almost 90 degrees to the field direction compared to position A. Embodiments of the present invention utilize this transition field line at position C to activate the reed switch, which will be discussed further in this article.

[0045] like Figure 3A As shown in FIG. 1 , a reed switch 14 has a glass capsule 15 with an inert gas 16 inside the glass capsule 15. A small gap exists between overlapping portions 17 at both ends of the reed blade 18. The reed switch is linear in length and defines a longitudinal axis 19. The reed switch 14 is a simple mechanical device that can be used in a normally open (NO), normally closed (NC) (2-wire), or NO / NC (3-wire) combination. They change from a default position to an opposing position when placed in a magnetic field, which causes the contacts in the switch to engage or disengage, depending on the specifications and sensitivity of the particular reed switch.

[0046] The response of a reed switch to a magnetic field depends on the strength and direction of the magnetic field relative to the position of the switch contacts. If the magnetic field is in the same direction as the switch reed, the reed switch will not function, e.g. Figure 3A For example, if the reed switch is Figure 2 If the reed switch is aligned along the y-axis at position A in the figure, it will not work (not close). Figure 4A On the other hand, if the magnetic field lines extend non-parallel to the reed switch (i.e., close to perpendicular), the reed switch will close, as shown in Figure 3B For example, if the reed switch 14 is Figure 2 If the reed switch is aligned along the y-axis at position C in Figure 4B as shown in .

[0047] As can now be appreciated, a linear magnetic field can be created in the center of the ring magnet in the y-axis direction. The width and length of the linear magnetic field depends on the inner diameter, outer diameter, length and material of the magnet. By designing the magnet to accommodate the size, shape and required magnetic force of the reed switch, the reed switch can be placed in the center of the magnet in such a position that the magnet will not cause the switch reeds to attract each other because the magnetic field will extend along the metal reeds without any lateral magnetic forces to make contact. If the reed switch is moved closer to the inner wall, the magnetic field will change pattern and will no longer be linear, and therefore will trigger the switch. However, a structure can be formed that centers the ring magnet around the reed switch so that little movement in the x-axis is not allowed. Then, when the reed switch is moved away from the center of the magnet along the y-axis, the reed switch will trigger because the magnetic field becomes non-linear, thus in Figure 2 The switch is triggered at position C in Figure 4B Shown in.

[0048] Now that the operation of the ring magnet and reed switch is understood, the water level sensor / switch 28 can be fabricated. Figure 5 2 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a reed switch 14 aligned with and placed in the center of the longitudinal length 19 of a vertically oriented support 20, which in this embodiment is simply a tube 20. The vertical center of the reed switch is identified at line 24. The tube 20 includes a seal 21 at the top so that water or other contaminants do not interfere with the operation of the reed switch. The cross-section of the tube can be circular, oval, square, rectangular, triangular, or any other combination thereof, such as hexagonal, octagonal, etc. The tube is preferably shaped so that the ring magnet 10 can slide freely along the outside of the tube 20. Here, the ring magnet 10 is disposed within a buoyant material 22 to form a float 23. The buoyant material 22 has sufficient buoyancy to overcome the weight of the ring magnet so that the entire float assembly is buoyant when placed on water. In fact, when the tube 20 is attached within the toilet tank, the tube 20 is fixed in its position. This then allows the float 23 to move up and down the tube as the water level rises and falls.

[0049] There are many ways to make such a float assembly, for example, the annular magnet can be completely molded in the buoyancy material, or partially molded in the buoyancy material. The buoyancy material can be a plastic shell with air pockets disposed therein. The buoyancy material can be any material or structure having a lower specific gravity of water so that the entire float assembly has a lower specific gravity of water. As can be appreciated by those skilled in the art, there are an infinite number of ways in which the float 23 can be constructed, as this teaching is not meant to limit the invention to the specific forms taught herein. The float 23 can then slide on the tube 20 so that the float 23 rises and falls freely with the water level in the tank (such as a toilet tank).

[0050] Fig. 6A is a side cross-sectional view showing a tube 20 and a float 23 installed within a water tank to measure the water level 25. There are upper and lower stops 26 and 27 which may be integrally formed as part of the tube 20 or comprise separate parts attached to the tube 20. The stops prevent the float from moving if it is too high or too low. Fig. 6A In the embodiment, the center of the annular magnet in the float 23 is aligned with the vertical center 24 of the reed switch. In this case, the reed switch 14 is still disconnected because there is no magnetic force to close the reed and form electrical contact.

[0051] Figure 6B Similar to Fig. 6A , but now the water level 25 is shown to have dropped. The lower stop 27 prevents the float 23 from dropping further as the water level 25 continues to drop. The position of the lower stop is arranged so that the reed switch is in a position to change the magnetic force on the switch so that the force on the reed of the reed switch closes; for example, Figure 2 The ring magnet is therefore now causing the reed switch to close and conduct current.

[0052] Figure 6C Similar to Fig. 6A , and with Figure 6B The opposite is true. Figure 6C In the process, the water level 25 has risen above the upper stop 26, so that the annular magnet closes the reed switch again and conducts current. The upper and lower stops hold the annular magnet in a position that allows the reed switch to be activated.

[0053] Figure 73 is a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention, in which a low-power toilet tank leak detection device 30 is installed in a toilet tank 31. Here, a support structure 32 is configured to fix the leak detection device 30 relative to the toilet tank. In this embodiment, the support structure 32 is formed as a bracket that hangs over the edge of the toilet tank itself. A screw 33 with a knurled head 34 (or the like) can be used by a user to easily fix the support structure 32 inside the toilet tank. The support structure includes a channel 35 for arranging the tube 20 therein. The channel 35 allows the tube 20 to be adjusted up and down so that the water level sensor can be correctly positioned during the installation of the present invention. A second screw 36 with a knurled head 37 (or the like) can be used again to fix the tube to its correct position. As can be understood by those skilled in the art, there are a variety of ways in which the support structure and screws can be constructed or used to fix the present invention in a toilet tank, because this specific teaching is not limited to the precise embodiments taught herein. In addition, there is a whole range of water level sensors and configurations that can be used in accordance with the teachings of the present application. For an example of an embodiment not shown, a float may be attached to a lever arm that pivots about a hinge, wherein the position of the lever arm will connect or disconnect various electrical devices and operate in a manner similar to the teachings herein.

[0054] Now return to reference Figure 7 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 , there is a controller 38. The controller 38 may take the form of a box as shown herein or simply integrated into the support structure 32. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, the controller 38 may be located outside or inside the water tank. The controller may contain electronic circuitry 39 (in Fig.10 4). The controller may also include a timer 40 and a power source 41 such as a battery. Although the present invention may use a microprocessor, this particular embodiment does not. The controller may also include an alarm indicator 42, which may take many forms and variations as further discussed herein.

[0055] To facilitate installation of the device, the controller may include a test button 43 configured to start or stop an audible (buzzer 44) or visual signal (LED 45) when the float 25 is in the correct neutral position (which is the vertical center 24 of the reed switch). This makes it very easy to adjust the screw 36, as it is possible to determine when the tube 20 has been correctly positioned. Once everything has been properly adjusted, the test button 43 may be turned off, allowing the device to resume its normal operation.

[0056] The normal use cycle of a toilet is when the toilet is flushed, which means the flapper is pulled open. During this cycle, the water in the toilet tank is drained in the toilet bowl. Depending on the type of toilet and its flushing options, the tank is completely or partially emptied. The flapper returns to the closed position, and the toilet fill valve (which resides inside the tank) senses the low water level in the tank and fills the tank to a preset level that can be considered a full tank level. The water level sensor of the present invention senses what is happening to the water level inside the tank. However, the level switch signal simulates a mechanical switch that is open (not electrically connected) when the float is in the center position (i.e., full tank level) and closed (electrically connected) when the float is above or below the center position.

[0057] Four different tank level positions are described below:

[0058] 1. In a normal use cycle, when the toilet is flushed and water is drained from the tank, the level switch senses the lower water level in the tank and the switch will change from the open position to the closed position, activating the electronic circuit and timer. When the tank fills to the full position and the toilet fill valve closes to the water in the tank, the switch will return to the open position. If there are any anomalies in the cycle and the timer times out, the solenoid is activated to notify the user and the circuit is opened to stop the current draw. Depending on the type of toilet, the length of this cycle is roughly between 20 seconds to 2 minutes.

[0059] 2. If the flapper remains open, the water level will not return to the full tank level and the switch will remain closed and the circuit will time out, creating an alarm.

[0060] 3. If there is a small leak in the tank after the tank has filled to normal level, the water will drain slowly and at a certain point the level will drop enough to cause the switch to change to the closed position, activating the electronic circuit and the timer. This will also register the timeout and sound the alarm. The tank will eventually drain to the point where the fill valve opens and refills the tank, causing the switch to open again. This cycle will continue until the leak is repaired. Depending on the leak and the type of toilet, this cycle will usually take between 3 and 20 minutes.

[0061] 4. The toilet fill valve can malfunction and may sometimes not stop at the desired level. This can then overfill or underfill the toilet tank. In the event of an overfill, water will enter the toilet bowl through the overflow tube. If this happens, the flow switch magnet will reach its upper limit and the level switch will sense the overfill and switch to the closed position. In the event of an underfill, the float will rest on the lower stop, causing a timeout and alarm. These conditions will remain until the toilet is flushed.

[0062] Referring now to the alarm indicator, a number of embodiments may be employed. One such embodiment is Figure 8 It is shown in Figure 8 This is just one example of many approaches that can be devised. In this example, a micro switch 46 having a rod 47 is used. In this embodiment, the micro switch 46 can have one normally closed wire that can be routed to wireless communication circuitry if desired. Another wire can be routed to a wireless communication circuit such as Fig.10 It will be appreciated that there are many variations of micro switches, etc., which may be routed to multiple variations of circuits consistent with this teaching.

[0063] When the reset button 48 is pressed, one end 49 of the rod 47 latches onto the (spring 50 loaded) pivoting latch arm 51 and holds the micro switch 46 in the reset (closed) position. Figure 8 As can be seen in FIG. 4 , the latch arm 51 has an angled head 55 configured to catch the rod end 49 when the reset button 48 is pressed. When the electronic circuit 39 detects an alarm condition, the solenoid 52 activates and moves (pushes) the latch arm to pivot about the hinge 56, thereby forcing the end 49 of the rod 47 out of the latched state. As a result, the switch rod 47 springs upward, placing the switch 46 in the off state and pushing the reset button 48 upward, indicating an alarm condition, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 As shown in Fig. 9 , the latch arm 51 is also shown in phantom to show how it pivots about the hinge 56 to then release the lever 47 so that the lever 47 can push the reset button 48 upwards.

[0064] Referring now to the electronic circuit 39, a number of embodiments may be employed. One such embodiment is Fig.10 . The electronic circuit includes a simple "delay before on" timer 40. The output of the timer 40 powers a solenoid 52 through a relay or transistor switch 53. The timer 40 is set to activate at a predetermined elapsed time from the power-on state, where the predetermined elapsed time is longer than the expected time of a flush cycle in which the toilet tank will go from a full state to a flush state to a full state. Here, the electronic circuit can be hard-wired or powered by solar energy, rechargeable batteries and / or conventional batteries 41. The power supply of the electronic circuit is through an alarm indicator microswitch 46 connected in series with the level switch 14. When the alarm indicator is reset and the toilet tank is full, the circuit is completely disconnected. In a normal flush cycle, the circuit is powered and the timer starts running, but before the timer is triggered and the circuit is de-energized, the tank is filled. In the case of all three types of leaks, the recovery time is longer than the predetermined elapsed time, and the timer triggers the solenoid, and the device indicates that an alarm condition has been encountered. At the same time, the circuit is turned off by the microswitch to save energy again.

[0065] As previously discussed, the circuit 39 may also include a test button 43 that is configured to start or stop an audible (buzzer 44) or visual signal (LED 45) when the float 25 is in the correct neutral position (i.e., the vertical center 24 of the reed switch). This makes adjusting the screw 36 very easy, as it can be determined when the tube 20 has been correctly positioned. Once everything is properly adjusted, the test button 43 can be turned off, allowing the device to resume its normal operation.

[0066] Return to reference Figure 7 , a transmitter 54 may be added to wirelessly transmit alarm notifications. A separate circuit may be added to the device that is powered by the normally closed (NC) pole of the microswitch. This circuit will be disconnected in the reset position and will be closed when the device is in alarm mode. When the device is reset, this circuit will be disconnected from the power supply.

[0067] Figure 7 Also shown is a counter 57 that can be added to an embodiment of the present invention. The counter can be an electronic counter such as an LED display, or it can be a mechanical counter that does not require electricity after activation. The counter 57 is useful because it will indicate how many flush cycles have occurred since the reset button was reset. In this way, it can be quickly seen if the flush count is quite high, which can indicate that there is another problem. For example, there may be a situation where the toilet will flush and cycle to fill the tank correctly, but then shortly afterwards another flush cycle may be initiated due to some problem. Over time, the toilet may continue to flush over and over again, wasting a lot of water. In the described embodiment, the counter will help identify if such a problem has occurred. An additional reset button 58 can be added to reset the counter itself.

[0068] In another embodiment not shown, a magnet may be used as part of the float such that the one magnet activates or deactivates the reed switch. Alternatively, the magnet may not be annular, but may be cubic in shape, cylindrical in shape, or any other suitable shape known to those skilled in the art. Alternatively, multiple magnets may be used disposed within a single float such that some magnets are disposed below the waterline and some magnets are disposed above the waterline. As may be appreciated, there is a range of magnets and a range of reed switches that may be used consistent with the teachings of the present application.

[0069] In another embodiment not shown, multiple reed switches can be used at varying longitudinal distances (i.e., heights) to provide diagnostic feedback. For example, when the float changes position, it can actuate other reed switches to indicate water level and associated potential faults, particularly when coupled with a microprocessor and timer.

[0070] In another embodiment, a Hall Effect sensor may be used. This would allow the device to detect not only the water level, but also the direction and / or speed of the magnetic ring travel, and could provide insight as to whether there is a leak due to the tank not being filled, slowly leaking, or being overfilled.

[0071] This detailed description describes only exemplary embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any way. In fact, the claimed invention is broader than the embodiments shown herein and is not limited thereto, and the terms used in the claims have their full ordinary meaning. For example, although the exemplary embodiments described in this disclosure relate to the design and use of a low-power toilet leak detection device, it should be understood that one or more of the features described herein may be additionally or alternatively applied to other water systems or other fluid systems, such as, for example, natural gas, air, propane, steam, oil, gas, or other such fluid systems. In addition, it should be understood that the fluid may include air, steam, gas, liquid, or any combination thereof.

[0072] Although various inventive aspects, concepts and features of the present invention can be described and illustrated herein as being implemented in combination in exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts and features can be used in many alternative embodiments individually or in the form of various combinations and sub-combinations thereof. Unless explicitly excluded herein, all such combinations and sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present invention. Further, although various alternative embodiments of various aspects, concepts and features of the present invention (such as alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, circuits, devices and components, software, hardware, control logic, substitutes for form, coordination and function, etc.) can be described herein, these descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments, whether currently known or developed later. Those skilled in the art can easily adopt one or more of the aspects, concepts or features of the present invention to additional embodiments and uses within the scope of the present invention, even if these embodiments are not explicitly disclosed herein. In addition, although some features, concepts or aspects of the present invention can be described herein as preferred arrangements or methods, this description is not intended to imply that such features are necessary or essential, unless explicitly stated as such. Further, exemplary or representative values ​​and ranges may be included to aid in understanding the present disclosure, however, these values ​​and ranges should not be interpreted in a limiting sense, and only where explicitly stated, these values ​​and ranges are intended to be critical values ​​or ranges. Parameters identified as "approximately" or "about" a specified value in a claim are intended to include values ​​within 10% of the specified value and the specified value, unless otherwise explicitly stated. In addition, it should be understood that the drawings accompanying the present disclosure may, but need not be, to scale, and thus may be understood to teach various ratios and proportions apparent in the drawings. In addition, while various aspects, features, and concepts may be explicitly identified herein as inventive or forming part of the present invention, such identification is not intended to be exclusive, but there may be aspects, concepts, and features of the present invention fully described herein without being explicitly identified as such or as part of a particular invention, which is instead set forth in the appended claims. The description of an exemplary method or process is not limited to including all steps required in all cases, nor is the order of presentation of the steps to be interpreted as required or necessary unless explicitly stated.

[0073] As used herein, "computer", "control module" or "processor" includes but is not limited to any programmed or programmable electronic device or can store, retrieve and process data and can be a processing unit or a coordinating device in a distributed processing configuration. Examples of processors include microprocessors, microcontrollers, graphics processing units (GPUs), floating point units (FPUs), reduced instruction set computing (RISC) processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc. The computer device herein may have any of a variety of configurations, such as handheld computers (e.g., so-called smart phones), tablet computers, tablet laptop computers, desktop computers and other configurations, and include other form factors. The various computers and processors herein have logic for performing the various corresponding functions and processes described herein. "Logic" synonymous with "circuit" used herein includes but is not limited to hardware, firmware, software and / or a combination of each that performs one or more functions or actions. For example, based on the desired application or need, the logic may include a software-controlled processor, discrete logic such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmed logic device or other processor. The logic may also be fully implemented as software. As used herein, "software" includes, but is not limited to, one or more computer-readable and / or executable instructions that enable a processor or other electronic device to perform functions, actions, processes and / or behaviors in a desired manner. These instructions can be implemented in various forms, such as routines, algorithms, modules or programs, including separate applications or codes from dynamic link libraries (DLLs). Software can also be implemented in various forms, such as stand-alone programs, web-based programs, function calls, subroutines, servlets, applications, application software, applet (e.g., Java applet), plug-ins, instructions stored in memory, a part of an operating system, or other types of executable instructions or interpretive instructions from which executable instructions are generated. It will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the form of software depends on, for example, the requirements of the desired application, the environment in which it runs and / or the expectations of the designer / programmer, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, some or all of the software is stored on a memory that includes one or more non-transitory computer-readable media of one or more local or remote data storage devices. As used herein, "data storage device" refers to a device for non-transitory storage of code or data, for example, a device with a non-transitory computer-readable medium.As used herein, "non-transitory computer readable medium" refers to any suitable non-transitory computer readable medium for storing code or data, such as magnetic media, e.g., fixed disks in external hard drives, fixed disks in internal hard drives, and floppy disks; optical media, e.g., CD disks, DVD disks, and other media, such as RAM, ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, Flash PROM, external flash drives, etc. The communication circuitry herein includes antennas and / or data ports and driver chips for sending and receiving communications with other devices. In an exemplary embodiment, the communication circuitry may include any one or more of WI-FI antennas and circuits, LTE antennas and circuits, GPS antennas and circuits, CDPD antennas and circuits, GPRS antennas and circuits, GSM antennas and circuits, UMTS antennas and circuits, Ethernet circuits and other antennas and circuits, USB ports and circuits (e.g., standard, micro, mini, etc.), RS-232 ports and circuits, proprietary ports and circuits (e.g., APPLE 30-pin and Lightning ports), RFID antennas and circuits, NFC antennas and circuits, bump technology antennas and circuits, Bluetooth (e.g., BLE) antennas and circuits, DOCSIS circuits, ONT circuits, and other antennas, ports, and circuits.

[0074] As described herein, when one or more components are described as being connected, joined, fixed, coupled, attached, or otherwise interconnected, such interconnection may be a direct interconnection between the components or may be an indirect interconnection, such as through the use of one or more intermediate components. Furthermore, as described herein, references to "member," "component," or "portion" should not be limited to a single structural member, component, or element, but may include an assembly of components, components, or elements.

[0075] Although several embodiments have been described in detail for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made to each embodiment without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not to be limited except as in the appended claims.

[0076] List of reference numerals:

[0077] 10 Ring magnet, axially magnetized

[0078] 11 Ring magnet, diametrically magnetized

[0079] 12 Center shaft, ring magnet

[0080] N Arctic

[0081] S Antarctica

[0082] Ri inner diameter, ring magnet

[0083] Ro outer radius, ring magnet

[0084] T Thickness, Ring Magnet

[0085] A Position

[0086] B Position

[0087] C Position

[0088] D Position

[0089] 14 Reed switch

[0090] 15 Glass capsule

[0091] 16 Inert Gas

[0092] 17 Overlap

[0093] 18 Reed Blades

[0094] 19 Vertical length

[0095] 20 Vertically oriented supports, tubes

[0096] 21 Seals

[0097] 22 Buoyancy materials

[0098] 23 Float

[0099] 24 vertical center, reed switch

[0100] 25 Water Level

[0101] 26 Upper stop

[0102] 27 Lower stop

[0103] 28 Water level switch / sensor

[0104] 29 Longitudinal axis, reed switch

[0105] 30 Low power toilet tank leak detection device

[0106] 31 Toilet tank

[0107] 32 Support structure / bracket

[0108] 33 Screws

[0109] 34 Knurled head

[0110] 35 channels

[0111] 36 Screws

[0112] 37 Knurled head

[0113] 38 Controller

[0114] 39 Electronic Circuits

[0115] 40 Timer

[0116] 41 Power supply, battery

[0117] 42 Alarm indicator

[0118] 43 Test button

[0119] 44 Buzzer, sound alarm

[0120] 45 LED

[0121] 46 Micro switch

[0122] 47 shots

[0123] 48 Reset button

[0124] 49 one end, rod

[0125] 50 Spring

[0126] 51 Latch arm

[0127] 52 Solenoid

[0128] 53 Relay or transistor switch

[0129] 54 Transmitter

[0130] 55 Tilt Head

[0131] 56 Hinge

[0132] 57 Counter

[0133] 58 Counter reset button.

Claims

1. A leak detection device for a toilet tank, comprising: a water level switch configured to be disposed within the toilet tank, wherein the water level switch includes a float configured to be buoyant when placed over a water source, and wherein the float is configured to at least partially move from a starting position to a first non-starting position that is lower or higher relative to the starting position as a water level within the toilet tank moves; an electronic circuit electrically connected to the water level switch, the electronic circuit comprising a power supply and a timer; wherein the electronic circuit is configured to be electrically disconnected from the power supply when the water level switch is in the start position; wherein the electronic circuit is configured to be electrically connected to the power supply when the water level switch is in the first non-starting position; and wherein the timer is configured to be activated when the water level switch is in the first non-start position, wherein the timer includes a first preset time limit, wherein upon reaching or exceeding the first preset time limit, the electronic circuit is configured to send an alarm signal to an alarm indicator; wherein the water level switch comprises a vertically oriented support, the vertically oriented support comprising a plurality of reed switches arranged at varying longitudinal distances, the reed switches having longitudinal axes aligned along the longitudinal length of the vertically oriented support, wherein the float is movable up and down along the vertically oriented support, wherein the float comprises an annular magnet comprising a north pole annular portion adjacent to a south pole annular portion, and wherein a central axis of the annular magnet is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the reed switches; and wherein the electronic circuit is disconnected from the power supply for one of: 1) after the alarm signal has been sent, the electronic circuit is automatically disconnected from the power supply; or 2) wherein the timer includes a second preset time limit, wherein upon reaching and / or exceeding the second preset time limit, the electronic circuit is configured to disconnect from the power supply, wherein the second preset time limit begins when the first preset time limit is reached and / or exceeded.

2. The leakage detection device according to claim 1, further comprising a support structure, wherein the support structure comprises the water level switch and is formed as a bracket or comprises a bracket, the bracket being configured to fix the leakage detection device to the toilet tank or an overflow pipe in the toilet tank.

3. The leak detection device of claim 2, comprising the alarm indicator attached to the support structure.

4. A leak detection device according to claim 3, wherein the alarm indicator is configured to be at least partially disposed on the outside of the toilet tank, wherein the alarm indicator comprises a visual alarm, wherein the visual alarm comprises an LED and / or wherein the visual alarm comprises a mechanical display, the mechanical display being configured to remain displayed even when the power supply is disconnected from the electronic circuit.

5. The leak detection device of claim 3, wherein the alarm indicator comprises a speaker configured to emit an audible alarm. 6 . The leak detection device of claim 3 , wherein the alarm indicator comprises a transmitter, wherein the transmitter is configured to receive the alarm signal and transmit a wireless alarm signal to an electronic device.

7. The leak detection device of claim 6, wherein the alarm indicator is configured to be disposed within the toilet tank.

8. The leak detection device of claim 1, wherein the power source comprises a battery.

9. The leak detection device of claim 1, wherein the vertically oriented support includes a lower stop configured to prevent the float from moving below the lower stop when the water level in the toilet tank drops further below, wherein the float adjacent to the lower stop is located at the first non-starting position.

10. The leak detection device of claim 1, wherein the float is configured to at least partially move from the starting position to a second non-starting position that is higher relative to the starting position as the water level in the toilet tank moves from the starting position to a second non-starting position.

11. The leak detection device of claim 10, wherein the vertically oriented support comprises an upper stop configured to prevent the float from moving above the upper stop when the water level in the toilet tank rises further above, wherein the float adjacent to the upper stop is located at the second non-starting position.

12. The leak detection device of claim 2, wherein the vertically oriented support member is adjustable up and down relative to the support structure.

13. The leak detection device of claim 1, wherein the electronic circuit comprises a counter configured to display how many times the leak detection device has been activated.

14. The leak detection device of claim 13, wherein the counter comprises a counter reset button configured to reset the counter back to a starting count when activated.

15. The leak detection device of claim 1, wherein the leak detection device does not include a microprocessor.

16. A leakage detection device for a fluid box, comprising: a support structure configured to secure the leak detection device relative to a toilet tank, the support structure including a fluid level switch; wherein the fluid level switch includes a float, the float being configured to be buoyant when placed on a fluid source, and wherein the float is configured to at least partially move from a starting position to a first non-starting position that is lower or higher relative to the starting position as the fluid level within the fluid tank moves from a starting position to a first non-starting position that is lower or higher relative to the starting position, wherein the float includes an annular magnet including a north pole annular portion adjacent to a south pole annular portion; an electronic circuit comprising a power source and a timer, wherein the electronic circuit is in electrical communication with the fluid level switch; wherein the electronic circuit is configured to be electrically disconnected from the power supply when the fluid level switch is in the start position; wherein, when the float is in the first non-starting position, the magnetic field generated by the annular magnet causes the fluid level switch to enter a closed state, so that the electronic circuit is connected to the power supply; wherein the timer is configured to be activated when the fluid level switch is in the first non-start position, wherein the timer includes a first preset time limit, wherein upon reaching or exceeding the first preset time limit, the electronic circuit is configured to send an alarm signal to an alarm indicator; wherein the fluid level switch comprises a vertically oriented support, the vertically oriented support comprising a plurality of reed switches arranged at varying longitudinal distances, the reed switches having longitudinal axes aligned along the longitudinal length of the vertically oriented support, and the central axis of the annular magnet is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the reed switches, wherein the float is movable up and down along the vertically oriented support; and wherein the electronic circuit is disconnected from the power supply for one of: 1) after the alarm signal has been sent, the electronic circuit is automatically disconnected from the power supply; or 2) wherein the timer includes a second preset time limit, wherein upon reaching and / or exceeding the second preset time limit, the electronic circuit is configured to disconnect from the power supply, wherein the second preset time limit begins when the first preset time limit is reached and / or exceeded.

17. A leak detection device for a toilet tank, comprising: a support structure configured to secure the leak detection device relative to the toilet tank; a water level switch attached to the support structure, the support structure configured to be disposed within the toilet tank, wherein the water level switch includes a float, the float configured to be buoyant when placed on a water source, and wherein the float is configured to float on a water level within the toilet tank and to be lower or higher relative to the starting position as the water level within the toilet tank at least partially moves from a starting position to a first non-starting position; an electronic circuit attached to the support structure, the electronic circuit comprising a power source and a timer, wherein the electronic circuit is in electrical communication with the water level switch; an alarm indicator in electrical communication with the electronic circuit; wherein the electronic circuit is configured to be electrically disconnected from the power supply when the water level switch is in the start position; wherein the electronic circuit is configured to be electrically connected to the power supply when the water level switch is in the first non-starting position; wherein the timer is configured to be activated when the water level switch is in the first non-start position, wherein the timer includes a first preset time limit, wherein upon reaching or exceeding the first preset time limit, the electronic circuit is configured to send an alarm signal to the alarm indicator; wherein the alarm indicator is attached to the support structure on the outside of the toilet tank, wherein the alarm indicator includes a visual display showing that the alarm signal was sent, wherein the visual display is configured to remain displayed after the power source is disconnected from the electronic circuit; wherein the water level switch comprises a vertically oriented support, the vertically oriented support comprising a plurality of reed switches arranged at varying longitudinal distances, the reed switches having longitudinal axes aligned along the longitudinal length of the vertically oriented support, wherein the float is movable up and down along the vertically oriented support, wherein the float comprises an annular magnet comprising a north pole annular portion adjacent to a south pole annular portion, and wherein a central axis of the annular magnet is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the reed switches; and wherein the electronic circuit is disconnected from the power supply for one of: 1) after the alarm signal has been sent, the electronic circuit is automatically disconnected from the power supply; or 2) wherein the timer includes a second preset time limit, wherein upon reaching and / or exceeding the second preset time limit, the electronic circuit is configured to disconnect from the power supply, wherein the second preset time limit begins when the first preset time limit is reached and / or exceeded.

18. The leakage detection device according to claim 17, wherein: The vertically oriented support comprises: a lower stopper configured to prevent the float from moving below the lower stopper when the water level in the toilet tank drops further below, wherein the float adjacent to the lower stopper is located at the first non-starting position; or An upper stopper is configured to prevent the float from moving above the upper stopper when the water level in the toilet tank further rises above, wherein the float adjacent to the upper stopper is located at the first non-starting position.

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