Distributed Sensor Network for Fluid Leak Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring fluid leaks in industrial and commercial applications are not sustainable or economical, particularly for harmful or valuable fluids, and lack accuracy in detecting small leaks before they become significant issues.
Innovation Solution
A leak detection system comprising sensors with a sensing element and communication device, adapted to monitor fluid leakage at fluid interfaces, using a substrate with a detection element that changes state upon fluid contact, transmitting signals through wireless or wired protocols to a communication hub for real-time monitoring and alerting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional leak monitoring methods are used, then the system is simpler and more economical, but the detection accuracy for small leaks is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is divided into multiple independent sensors that can be distributed across different fluid interfaces. Each sensor independently monitors its local area, enabling high detection accuracy without requiring a complex centralized system. The segmentation allows the system to scale according to needs while maintaining simplicity in individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
A communication hub acts as an intermediary between the distributed sensors and the monitoring system. The hub aggregates data from multiple sensors, processes information, and provides centralized control, thereby maintaining detection accuracy while simplifying the overall system architecture through modular design.
2Loss of time
If real-time monitoring is implemented, then the response time to leaks is reduced, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensors perform monitoring at periodic intervals rather than continuous operation. The communication hub collects data at scheduled times and transmits information asynchronously, reducing energy consumption while maintaining effective real-time detection capability for small leaks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates low-power sleep modes and event-triggered communication where sensors only activate transmission when leak conditions are detected. This self-managing approach minimizes energy consumption while ensuring rapid response to actual leak events.
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 quickly and accurately detects small fluid leaks, reducing response time and preventing larger leaks by providing timely alerts, suitable for various industries including semiconductor, medical, and oil and gas sectors.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor (100) including a sensing element (102)... determining via a controller a first state of the sensor (100) comprising a first condition when dry and a second condition when wet
Data Source
AI summary
A method of monitoring at least one leak detection sensor, the method including the steps of: determining via a communication hub a first state of a sensor comprising a first condition when the sensor is dry and a second condition when the sensor is wet; determining via the communication hub a second state representing an operability of the sensor; communicating via the communication hub each of the states of the sensor to a Graphical User Interface (GUI); and displaying, via the GUI, a representation of the first and second states of the sensor.