Connected Well Pump Control for Remote Pressure Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional well systems rely on pressure switches that do not provide robust management, control, or protection and require physical access for adjustments, lacking remote monitoring and management capabilities.
Innovation Solution
An Internet-enabled well management system with a controller that communicates with a backend system and client devices, enabling remote monitoring, configuration, and control of the well system, including pump operation, pressure management, and system diagnostics, while providing protection modes and energy-saving options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pressure switch is used to control pump operation, then the system maintains pressure within a configured range, but the system lacks remote monitoring and management capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
A communication module is introduced as an intermediary between the pressure switch control system and remote user devices. This module transmits system data (pressure readings, pump status) and receives control commands over a network, enabling remote monitoring and management without interfering with the core pressure control function
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is enhanced to perform multiple functions: it not only controls pump operation based on pressure switch signals but also communicates system status remotely, receives configuration updates, and provides diagnostic information. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate monitoring systems
2Device complexity
If physical inspection is required to ascertain system status and make adjustments, then the system structure remains simple, but the ease of operation and maintenance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously collects operational data (pressure readings, pump run time, system status) and provides this feedback to remote users through the communication module. This real-time feedback eliminates the need for physical inspection to ascertain system status, as all necessary information is available remotely
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service monitoring and diagnostics by providing users with access to system status, historical data, and diagnostic information through remote devices. Users can identify issues and make adjustments without requiring physical access to the well system components
3Productivity
If the pump runs continuously to meet demand, then the system ensures adequate water supply, but the pump operational lifetime is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a pressure switch to create periodic pump operation cycles. The pump runs intermittently to maintain pressure within a configured range (cut-in to cut-out pressure), rather than running continuously. This periodic operation reduces wear and extends pump lifetime while still meeting water demand
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure tank maintains system pressure and water availability between pump cycles, ensuring continuous useful action is provided to the plumbing system. The tank stores pressurized water during pump operation and releases it during pump-off periods, eliminating the need for continuous pump running
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 efficient remote management and protection of well systems, reducing operational costs and extending equipment lifespan through real-time monitoring and automated adjustments, enhancing system reliability and homeowner convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The controller can incorporate or be communicatively coupled to a pressure sensor that measures a fluid pressure of the system
Data Source
AI summary
A well management system provides Internet-enabled monitoring, configuration, and control of a well system that may include a pump and a pressure tank. A controller is operatively coupled to the pump. The controller controls the pump based on pressure readings from a pressure sensor to maintain a configured pressure range within the system. The controller can communicate with a management system via a communications network. The management system is further in communication with one or more client devices, which may be associated with a homeowner, a service provider, a manufacturer, or the like. Via the management system, the client devices can receive information from the controller and send commands to the controller.