Automated evaporative system flush
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing evaporative cooling systems require manual flushing of contaminants from cooling pads, which is time-consuming and can interrupt cooling processes, especially during the day when cooling is needed most.
Innovation Solution
An automated flush system that uses a controllable valve and a control circuit with a photocell to automatically drain and refill the cooling pads at predetermined times, typically at night when cooling demand is lower, to efficiently remove contaminants without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual flushing is performed during the day, then contaminants are removed from cooling pads, but cooling operation is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic flushing operation where the cooling pads flush themselves without manual intervention. The control system automatically opens the drain valve, drains the pads, and closes the valve based on timing signals, eliminating the need for manual operation while maintaining cooling performance
Solution Approach 2:
The system schedules flushing operations in advance during nighttime periods when cooling demand is low. The control circuit receives timing signals that trigger the flushing sequence before it is needed, preparing the system optimally without interrupting daytime cooling operations
2Reliability
If manual flushing is performed, then contaminants are removed from cooling pads, but time is consumed in the process
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated control system that uses electronic timing signals and automatic valve control. This substitution eliminates the time-consuming manual aspects of flushing while maintaining the same contaminant removal effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic flushing based on predetermined timing intervals or nighttime signals. This automated periodic operation eliminates the time loss associated with manual intervention while ensuring contaminants are removed at optimal intervals to maintain cooling efficiency
3Ease of operation
If automated flushing is implemented, then manual operation is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system extracts and isolates the flushing control function into a separate, dedicated unit with a microprocessor or programmable logic controller. This modular approach manages complexity by separating the automatic control logic from the main cooling system, making the automated function self-contained and easier to implement
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an intermediary timing signal or nighttime detection signal as a mediator between the environmental conditions and the flushing operation. This intermediary simplifies the control logic by providing a clear trigger condition that automatically initiates the flushing sequence without requiring complex decision-making algorithms
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The automated system optimizes the flushing process, reducing the need for manual operation and ensuring continuous cooling performance by scheduling flushes during periods of lower demand, thereby improving the efficiency and longevity of the evaporative cooling system.
Implementation Method 1
a photocell configured to detect ambient light indicative of daytime
Implementation Method 2
The temperature of dry air can be dropped significantly through the phase transition of liquid water to water vapor (evaporation)
Implementation Method 3
water drains (e.g., pumped or gravity feed) out of the cooling pad enclosure
Data Source
AI summary
An automated flush system for an evaporative cooling system may be employed in barns or other facilities that house animals to provide cooling and to reduce production loss. The evaporative cooling control system may include an automated flush system that has a controllable valve at a flush end of the cooling system. Based on a timer, the controllable valve is opened and water drains (e.g., pumped or gravity feed) out of the cooling pad enclosure. Fresh water is introduced at the “fill” end of the system, rinsing out the evaporative cooling pads. After a predetermined time, the valve at the flush end of the system is closed, and the fresh water refills the cooling pad enclosure.