Cleanout Backflow Monitoring for Early Sewer Backup Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Non-pressurized fluid flow systems, such as sewage and drainage systems, lack in-conduit measurement devices, making them prone to undetected backup events that can cause significant damage and remedial expenses due to backflow flooding.
Innovation Solution
A backflow management device equipped with electronic sensors and wireless communication capabilities is installed in non-pressurized fluid flow systems, monitoring fluid levels and automatically detecting backflow events, triggering alerts and preventive measures to minimize damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If in-conduit measurement devices are installed in non-pressurized fluid flow systems, then backflow detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the monitoring function into separate modular components: float valves for flow regulation, electronic sensors for detection, and wireless communication modules for data transmission. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, improving backflow detection capability while keeping individual components relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless communication as an intermediary between the sensors/float valves and the monitoring system. This intermediary enables remote detection and alerting without requiring complex wired connections or direct integration, thus improving detection capability while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If float valves are used to regulate downstream non-pressurized flow, then flow control is improved, but early detection of backup events is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates electronic sensors that continuously monitor fluid levels and provide real-time feedback about backup conditions. This feedback mechanism works in conjunction with float valves, allowing the system to maintain flow control while simultaneously providing early detection of backup events, thus eliminating the time loss associated with delayed detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic sensors and wireless communication system are positioned to detect backup events before they result in significant flooding or damage. By taking preliminary detection action, the system can trigger alerts and preventive measures early in the backup process, while float valves continue to perform their flow control function without interruption.
3Reliability
If one-way valves are installed in pressurized fluid conduits, then backflow prevention is improved, but applicability to non-pressurized systems is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal backflow management system that can be applied to both pressurized and non-pressurized fluid flow systems. The combination of float valves, electronic sensors, and wireless communication provides multi-functional capability: float valves handle flow regulation in non-pressurized systems while electronic sensors provide detection in both pressurized and non-pressurized applications, making the overall system adaptable to various fluid flow conditions.
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 effectively reduces the likelihood and impact of backflow-related damage by enabling early detection and response, thereby reducing remedial costs and minimizing flooding risks.
Implementation Method 1
an outlet device (e.g., a sensor) that captures data descriptive of the outlet (e.g., a fluid level and/or presence thereof)
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and articles of manufacture for automatic backflow identification, detection, remediation, and/or management. In some embodiments, a backflow management device may comprise a threaded and electronically-enabled plug installed in a non-pressurized pipe system cleanout, branch, or stub.