Commode Water Flow Sensor and Solenoid Shut-Off Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems fail to detect and address water loss from commercial and residential toilet systems effectively, particularly due to leaks from worn or stuck flapper valves, leading to unnecessary water consumption and flooding, as they often shut off water supply to entire buildings rather than isolating the leak source.
Innovation Solution
A water flow control device comprising a flow sensor assembly, a shut-off assembly, and a controller that detects excessive water flow by generating pulses as water rotates a magnet-equipped impeller, triggering a solenoid to shut off the water supply specifically to the affected area, preventing unnecessary water waste and flooding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If whole house units are used to detect leaks, then water loss detection capability is improved, but water supply to entire house is shut off causing excessive loss of useful function
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the water detection and control function by installing a dedicated flow sensor assembly and controller at the commode water supply line, separating it from the main house water system. This allows independent monitoring and shut-off of only the commode water supply, preventing water loss to the entire house while maintaining water supply to other areas.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional flood control devices are used, then flood prevention is improved, but detection of water waste through overflow tube is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The flow sensor assembly acts as an intermediary device installed in the water supply line between the main supply and the commode. It continuously monitors water flow characteristics and provides early detection of abnormal flow patterns indicating water waste through overflow tubes or defective flappers, enabling preventive action before flooding occurs.
3Reliability
If wall mounted transformers with servo motor driven ball valves are used, then shut-off capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical shut-off mechanisms (wall mounted transformers with servo motor driven ball valves) with a simpler electronically controlled valve assembly. The controller receives signals from the flow sensor and directly actuates the valve, eliminating the need for complex mechanical transmission components while maintaining reliable shut-off capability.
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 device accurately detects and isolates water leaks in toilet systems, reducing water consumption and preventing flooding by shutting off water only to the affected area, thereby minimizing waste and ensuring efficient water usage.
Implementation Method 1
a flow sensor assembly, wherein the inlet is in fluid communication with the flow sensor assembly
Implementation Method 2
a shut-off assembly, wherein the shut-off assembly is located downstream of and in fluid communication with the flow sensor assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A device for detecting water loss and consumption from commercial and residential commodes is provided. The device includes a water flow sensor and a shut-off assembly. The device has a controller that receives input from the flow sensor and sends a signal to the shut-off assembly whenever excess water flow is detected.