Building Layer Leak Localization Using Distributed Electrode Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting and locating leaks in building layers, such as roofs and basements, are inefficient, often leading to delayed detection and costly repairs, as existing devices can only detect leaks at specific points and require direct contact with the sensor, making it difficult to accurately identify and address the source and scale of the leak before internal damage occurs.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a network of sensing modules with electrodes arranged in a spiral or parallel configuration, connected via a daisy chain and controlled by a sensor array control circuit, capable of detecting leaks in real-time with high spatial resolution, allowing for accurate localization of the leak ingress point and minimal maintenance, while generating and logging data on leak progression.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If point detection devices are used to detect leaks, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and detection coverage are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The building layer is divided into multiple sensing zones with distributed electrodes, transforming a single-point detection problem into a distributed detection system. Each electrode or electrode pair monitors a specific zone, enabling precise localization of leaks while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from one-dimensional point detection to two-dimensional area monitoring by arranging electrodes in patterns (such as interdigitated or grid configurations) across the building layer surface. This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous detection across multiple locations and precise spatial localization of leaks.
2Device complexity
If direct contact sensors are used, then the device complexity is low, but the detection coverage area is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical contact sensors with electrical field-based detection using electrodes that sense leaks through changes in electrical properties (such as conductivity or capacitance) of the building layer material. This substitution enables non-contact or minimal-contact detection over large areas while maintaining simple device architecture.
3Reliability
If large area of roof is replaced for repair, then the reliability of repair is improved, but the loss of substance and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection and precise localization of leaks before repair work begins. By identifying the exact location and extent of leaks through distributed electrode monitoring, the system enables targeted repairs at specific ingress points rather than blanket replacement of large roof areas, reducing material waste while ensuring reliable repair of affected zones.
4Device complexity
If minimal number of components are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the detection precision and location accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Each electrode serves multiple functions: it acts as both a sensing element for detecting leaks and a localization reference point. The same electrode array configuration enables both wide-area monitoring and precise leak positioning, eliminating the need for separate detection and localization component sets, thereby maintaining low device complexity while achieving high measurement precision.
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
Enables real-time detection and precise localization of leaks, reducing the need for large-scale repairs and minimizing damage by covering a maximum area with minimal components, providing scalable and efficient leak detection and reporting.
Implementation Method 1
the sensing circuitry is configured to measure a capacitance between the electrodes
Data Source
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AI summary
A system (1) for detecting and locating a leak in a building layer (50) comprises a sensing module (2) comprising at least one cell (10) having a major surface (13) juxtaposed a portion of a first surface (51) of the building layer (50) and incorporating at least one pair of mutually spaced electrodes (11, 12) defining a sensing path extending parallel to the cell major surface (13). Sensing circuitry (20) is cooperable with the cell (10) and configured to apply a voltage between the cell electrodes (11, 12) to measure an electrical property therebetween. The sensing circuitry (20) cooperates with a probe (70) arranged to be applied to a second surface (52) of the building layer (50) opposite the first surface (51) and is configured to apply a voltage between at least one of the cell electrodes (11, 12) and the probe (70) to measure an electrical property therebetween. Control circuitry (150) is operatively associated with the sensing circuitry (20) and configured to: detect the presence of a leak within the portion of the first surface (51) based on at least a first measurement from the sensing circuitry (20) of the electrical property between the cell electrodes (11, 12); and locate a point of leakage (155) within the portion of the first surface (51) based on at least a second measurement from the sensing circuitry (20) of the electrical property between the probe (70) and at least one of the cell electrodes (11, 12).