External Capacitive Fluid Detection for Unobstructed Flow Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid detection systems for backflow prevention in fluid supply systems face limitations such as probe obstruction of discharge flow paths and difficulty in detecting small fluid flows, particularly in confined spaces.
Innovation Solution
A fluid detection system with a sensor module that includes a sensor element positioned around the perimeter of the liquid flow path, capable of detecting capacitance changes to determine the presence of fluid without obstructing the flow path, and a controller that analyzes these changes to detect wet and flood events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If probes are extended into the discharge flow path to detect fluid, then fluid detection capability is improved, but the flow path is obstructed and installation in confined spaces becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor element is positioned outside the discharge flow path in a different spatial dimension, eliminating the need to extend probes into the confined flow path. The sensor detects fluid presence through capacitive coupling with the flow path wall, achieving detection without physical intrusion into the restricted space.
Solution Approach 2:
The discharge flow path wall acts as an intermediary between the sensor element and the fluid. The sensor detects fluid presence indirectly through changes in capacitance caused by fluid contact with the flow path wall, eliminating the need for direct probe contact with the fluid in confined spaces.
2Measurement precision
If probes are positioned to detect small fluid flows, then detection sensitivity is improved, but probe obstruction of the flow path increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor element operates from an external dimension outside the flow path, using capacitive coupling through the flow path wall to detect fluid presence. This eliminates physical obstruction of the flow path while maintaining sensitivity to small flows through precise capacitance measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical probe system that physically contacts the fluid is replaced with an electrical field-based capacitive sensor. The sensor detects fluid presence through electrical field interactions with the fluid and flow path wall, eliminating mechanical obstruction while maintaining detection sensitivity.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If the sensor element is positioned outside the flow path, then flow path obstruction is eliminated, but detection of fluid presence becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge flow path wall serves as an intermediary that transmits capacitive coupling between the external sensor element and the fluid. Fluid presence causes measurable changes in capacitance through the wall, enabling detection without direct sensor contact with the fluid while eliminating flow path obstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor detects fluid presence by measuring changes in capacitance, an electrical parameter, rather than requiring direct physical contact. The capacitance value changes in response to fluid proximity and contact with the flow path wall, providing a measurable parameter for fluid detection from outside the flow path.
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 effectively detects fluid presence and flood conditions without obstructing the flow path, enabling reliable and accurate monitoring of fluid flow in confined spaces.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor element is configured to detect a capacitance within the liquid flow path and to provide a detection signal indicative of a detected capacitance within the liquid flow path
Data Source
AI summary
Fluid detection systems and methods using the same are disclosed. In embodiments the fluid detection systems include a sensor module and an electronics module. The sensor module includes a sensor housing that includes a liquid flow path and a sensor element disposed around at least part of the liquid flow path. The sensor element can detect a capacitance of the liquid flow path and provide a sensor signal to a controller in the electronics module. The electronics module can determine a detected capacitance in the liquid flow path based at least in part on the sensor signal, and can determine whether a wet event has occurred based on a comparison of the detected capacitance to a threshold capacitance. Methods using the fluid detection systems and fluid supply systems including the fluid detection systems are also disclosed.