Capacitive Fluid Detection for Unobstructed Low-Flow Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid detection systems for backflow prevention devices face challenges such as probe obstruction in discharge flow paths, limited configuration flexibility in confined spaces, and difficulty in detecting small fluid flows.
Innovation Solution
A fluid detection system that includes a sensor module with a sensor element configured to detect capacitance within a liquid flow path without obstructing the flow, allowing for installation in various orientations and effectively detecting small fluid flows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If probes are used to detect fluid flow in discharge pipe, then fluid detection capability is achieved, but discharge flow path is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the discharge pipe wall as an intermediary medium to transmit fluid flow information from the discharge flow path to the sensor element. The sensor detects vibrations or acoustic signals through the pipe wall without direct contact with the fluid, thus maintaining flow path clearance while achieving detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical contact probes with a non-contact sensing mechanism that detects fluid flow through vibrations or acoustic signals transmitted through the pipe wall, eliminating the need for physical obstruction in the flow path
2Volume of moving object
If discharge pipe is configured in confined mechanical room, then space utilization is improved, but sensor installation flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is designed with universal mounting capabilities that allow it to be installed in various orientations and configurations. The sensor can detect fluid flow through the pipe wall regardless of the pipe's orientation or the sensor's specific position, providing adaptability to confined space constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from requiring direct fluid contact (one-dimensional insertion into flow path) to detecting through the pipe wall (adding a spatial dimension), allowing sensor installation on the exterior surface of the discharge pipe in confined spaces without obstructing the flow path
3Measurement precision
If conventional sensors are used in discharge pipe, then fluid detection is achieved, but small fluid flows cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes mechanical vibrations induced by fluid flow in the discharge pipe as the detection mechanism. Even small fluid flows generate detectable vibrations in the pipe wall, allowing the sensor to detect low-flow conditions that conventional sensors would miss
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from direct fluid contact measurements to vibration/acoustic signal measurements through the pipe wall. This parameter change enables detection of small fluid flows by amplifying the mechanical effects of flow through the pipe structure
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 system provides unobstructed fluid flow detection, enhances configuration flexibility, and improves the ability to detect small fluid flows, thereby addressing the limitations of existing technologies.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor element is configured to detect capacitance within a liquid flow path
Data Source
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AI summary
Fluid detection systems and methods using the same are disclosed. In embodiments the fluid detection systems include a sensor module and an electronics module. The sensor module includes a sensor housing that includes a liquid flow path and a sensor element disposed around at least part of the liquid flow path. The sensor element can detect a capacitance of the liquid flow path and provide a sensor signal to a controller in the electronics module. The electronics module can determine a detected capacitance in the liquid flow path based at least in part on the sensor signal, and can determine whether a wet event has occurred based on a comparison of the detected capacitance to a threshold capacitance. Methods using the fluid detection systems and fluid supply systems including the fluid detection systems are also disclosed.