Multi-layer Composite Pipe Integrating Electrical Conductor for Sanitary Fittings
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge lies in providing a reliable and maintenance-free electrical power supply to electronically controllable sanitary and heating fittings, particularly in areas where traditional electrical wiring is not feasible or practical, such as in shower areas, and the existing solutions like battery-powered systems pose environmental concerns.
Innovation Solution
The system utilizes multi-layer composite pipes with an insulated electrical conductor, such as a tubular aluminum layer, integrated between an inner and outer plastic pipe, which serves as a power conduit and data transmission medium, allowing for low-voltage electrical supply and easy connection points without the need for extensive wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional electrical wiring is used to power electronically controllable fittings, then the fittings can be powered reliably, but the installation complexity increases and electrical wiring is not permitted in every sanitary room area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the water supply function and electrical power supply function into a single integrated pipe system. The multi-layer composite pipe contains both water channels and electrical conductors, eliminating the need for separate electrical wiring in sanitary rooms. This merging resolves the contradiction by providing reliable power through the integrated system without increasing installation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-layer composite pipe serves multiple functions simultaneously: it transports water, provides electrical power, and offers mechanical protection. This multi-functionality allows the same infrastructure to fulfill both hydraulic and electrical requirements, resolving the contradiction between reliable power supply and installation simplicity.
2Device complexity
If battery-powered systems are used for wireless power supply, then electrical wiring is avoided, but maintenance requirements increase and environmental pollution occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power supply infrastructure with the water supply infrastructure, creating a permanent embedded system rather than a temporary battery solution. This eliminates maintenance requirements while avoiding environmental pollution, resolving the contradiction between installation simplicity and ease of operation.
3Ease of manufacture
If separate electrical wiring and plumbing installations are performed by different craftsmen, then specialized installation is achieved, but the electrical wiring is frequently forgotten and fittings cannot be used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the previously separate electrical and plumbing installation processes into a single integrated installation process. The multi-layer composite pipe is installed as a unified system, ensuring that both water supply and electrical power are provided together, eliminating the problem of forgotten wiring while maintaining specialized installation quality.
4Power
If 230 volt cabling is installed in shower areas, then power supply capability is achieved, but installation difficulty increases due to safety regulations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameters by using low-voltage conductors embedded within the pipe system rather than high-voltage 230V cabling. This parameter change allows power supply in shower areas while simplifying installation and meeting safety regulations, resolving the contradiction between power capability and installation ease.
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
This solution enables efficient and maintenance-free electrical supply to electronically controllable fittings, reducing the need for separate electrical installations and minimizing environmental impact, while ensuring high drinking water quality and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one electrical conductor is tubular and arranged between an inner plastic pipe and an outer plastic jacket
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a sanitary or heating system with at least one electronically controlled fitting (28), at least one pipe (5, 6) for supplying water, in particular drinking water, to the electronically controlled fitting, and a power supply device for powering the electronically controlled fitting. The invention is based on the objective of creating a sanitary or heating system that enables or facilitates the supply of power to electronically controlled sanitary or heating fittings. This objective is achieved in a sanitary or heating system of the aforementioned type by the fact that the at least one pipe (5, 6) is formed from a plastic pipe having at least one insulated electrical conductor (5.2, 5.2'), wherein the power supply device is provided with a voltage converter (21) for low-voltage voltage conversion, the output of which is connected to the electrical conductor (5.2, 5.2').2') of the plastic pipe (5, 6), and wherein the at least one electronically controllable fitting (28) is connected to the electrical conductor (5.2, 5.2') of the plastic pipe (5, 6) via a current tap (22, 25).