Electromagnetic Valve with Battery Backup for Water Flow Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid flow management devices do not effectively integrate monitoring of fluid flow with flow history records, temperature, seismic, and moisture sensors, nor do they provide reliable remote shut-off capabilities and failsafe valve closure, especially in the event of power loss or seismic activity.
Innovation Solution
An integrated fluid flow apparatus with a fluid flow sensor, electromagnetically controlled valve assembly, and communications module that learns water usage patterns, alerts homeowners to irregularities, and allows remote control of the valve, featuring a battery backup for failsafe operation during power failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an electromagnet is used to control the valve assembly, then remote shut-off capability is improved, but reliability during power failure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly uses a spring-loaded mechanism that automatically closes the valve when power is lost, inverting the conventional approach where power is needed to maintain closure. The electromagnet holds the valve open when energized, but releases it automatically when power fails, allowing spring force to close the valve.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded mechanism is pre-configured to counteract the electromagnet's holding force and automatically close the valve when power is lost, providing preliminary protection against water damage during power failures before any damage can occur.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and communication modules are integrated, then monitoring capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines fluid flow sensors, temperature sensors, seismic sensors, moisture sensors, communication modules, and control systems into a single integrated housing, merging multiple separate monitoring and control devices into one unified system that can detect and respond to various water damage conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring apparatus is designed as a multi-functional device that can detect fluid flow anomalies, temperature changes, seismic activity, and moisture presence, while also providing wireless communication and automatic valve control capabilities, making it a universal water damage prevention system.
3Loss of time
If automatic valve closure is implemented, then response time to leaks is improved, but loss of manual control increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors fluid flow and provides wireless notifications to homeowners about detected anomalies, giving them real-time feedback and the option to remotely control the valve or receive alerts, balancing automation with user control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system can automatically detect water leaks and trigger valve closure without requiring manual intervention, providing self-service protection while still allowing homeowners to remotely override or control the valve through wireless communication if needed.
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 apparatus provides comprehensive fluid flow management by automatically detecting and responding to anomalies, ensuring timely shut-off of water supply during issues like leaks or seismic events, and maintaining operation through power failures with a battery backup.
Implementation Method 1
A closure assembly includes a first lever portion operatively coupled to the valve assembly and a second lever portion extending away from the valve assembly and is selectively magnetically connected to the electromagnet
Implementation Method 2
The fluid sensor is configured to determine a velocity of a fluid flowing through the conduit, such by sending a signal through the conduit and collecting a reflected signal
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated fluid flow apparatus for managing the flow of a fluid through a conduit, includes a flow sensor configured to determine a velocity of a fluid flowing through the conduit. The apparatus includes a valve assembly positioned inline with the conduit that is movable between open and closed configurations. An electromagnet is selectively energized by a power source and situated proximate the valve assembly. A closure assembly is operatively coupled to the valve assembly and is magnetically connected to the electromagnet. The closure assembly holds the valve assembly to the open configuration when also magnetically connected to the electromagnet and moves the valve assembly to the closed configuration when the magnetic coupling is released. The apparatus includes a communications module that communicate with a homeowner or resident concerning water velocity, temperature, seismic activity, that the valve has been closed, and to solicit instructions on selected actions.