Flow Control Device for Pipe Freeze Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current flow control devices for preventing freeze-induced rupture of supply pipes are often complex, expensive, require constant electricity, and do not effectively protect interior hot or cold-water lines, as they typically shut off water usage entirely or require constant outflow, making them impractical for homes without power or those dependent on water usage.
Innovation Solution
A flow control device with remote and internal temperature sensors, a valve, and a controller that automatically regulates water flow by attaching to a faucet or spigot, allowing controlled liquid flow to prevent freezing, without requiring professional installation or constant electricity, and can be used indoors or outdoors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If devices automatically detect temperature drops to prevent pipe rupture, then pipe protection reliability is improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses the existing faucet aerator as the mounting location for the temperature sensor, eliminating the need for separate sensor housings and complex installation structures. The aerator itself becomes part of the sensing system, simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining automatic temperature detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The faucet aerator serves multiple functions: it is the water flow control component, the mounting structure for the sensor, and the interface between the device and the existing faucet system. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies installation
2Extent of automation
If devices require constant electricity to operate, then automation and control precision are improved, but applicability to homes without power increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic powered systems with a mechanical temperature-actuated valve mechanism. The temperature sensor mechanically opens or closes the valve in response to temperature changes without requiring electrical power, enabling operation in locations without electricity while maintaining automatic control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the natural thermal expansion and contraction of components or the mechanical response of the temperature sensor to automatically actuate the valve, eliminating the need for external power sources. The system serves itself by using the physical principles inherent in the environment to drive its operation
3Reliability
If devices shut off water to the entire system to prevent freezing, then pipe protection is improved, but water usability for the home decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device isolates the freezing risk location by controlling water flow only at the specific faucet or spigot where the temperature sensor is mounted. Other parts of the water system continue to receive normal water supply, providing localized protection while maintaining water usability throughout the home
Solution Approach 2:
The water system is segmented into a protected zone (at the monitored faucet/spigot) and an active zone (the rest of the home). The flow control valve creates a localized control point that prevents freezing at the exposed location without affecting water availability elsewhere in the building
4Manufacturing precision
If devices require professional installation, then installation precision is improved, but ease of installation and cost decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes the existing faucet aerator as the mounting platform, allowing homeowners to install it themselves by simply attaching to the aerator without requiring professional plumbing skills or special tools. The design enables DIY installation while maintaining functional precision
Solution Approach 2:
By using the universal faucet aerator interface that exists in most homes, the device can be installed on standard faucets without requiring custom fittings or professional installation, making it accessible to typical homeowners
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 device effectively prevents pipe rupture during freezing temperatures by allowing a controlled flow of water, ensuring protection without shutting off water usage entirely and functioning without constant electricity, making it practical for homes without power or those dependent on water usage.
Implementation Method 1
at least one remote temperature sensor configured to determine first temperature data associated with air outside of a dwelling; at least one internal temperature sensor configured to determine second temperature data associated with air adjacent to the device or inside the dwelling
Implementation Method 2
a valve configured to control a first flow rate of the liquid flowing from an inlet of the supply pipe along a controlled liquid flow path by moving a valve position from a closed position to an open position
Implementation Method 3
a flow control component in fluid communication with the valve, and configured to control a second flow rate of the liquid flowing from the valve
Implementation Method 4
In order to introduce warmer ground water into the plumbing pipes; In order to prolong the process of ice crystals forming in the water thereby delaying the freezing process
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are flow control devices including at least one remote temperature sensor configured to determine first temperature data associated with air outside of a dwelling; a valve configured to control a first flow rate of the liquid flowing from an inlet of the supply pipe along a controlled liquid flow path by moving a valve position from a closed position to an open position; a flow control component in fluid communication with the valve, and configured to control a second flow rate of the liquid flowing from the valve; at least one internal temperature sensor configured to determine second temperature data associated with air inside the dwelling; a controller communicatively connected to the temperature sensors and configured to control operation of the valve based at least on at least one of the first temperature data and the second temperature data; and a housing configured to contain the flow control device components and further configured to releasably attach to a spigot or spout of a supply pipe. Also disclosed herein are methods for using the disclosed devices.