Fluid Flow Timer Using Vibration Sensor for Removable Water Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water-saving devices do not provide users with an accurate measure of water usage, leading to a false sense of conservation, and require semi-permanent installation, making them costly and difficult to relocate.
Innovation Solution
A fluid flow timing device with a vibration sensor, processor, and output means that attaches to a fluid conduit, allowing for removable installation and providing visual or audible signals to indicate water usage duration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If water restriction devices are used to reduce water flow, then water consumption is reduced, but users do not have accurate awareness of water usage and may extend usage time
Solution Approach 1:
The device provides real-time feedback to users through visual displays showing the duration of water flow and the volume of water consumed. This feedback mechanism allows users to see the direct relationship between usage time and water consumption, enabling them to make informed decisions about their water usage without extending shower time to compensate for reduced flow.
2Loss of information
If inline water monitoring devices are installed to provide water flow information, then water usage awareness is improved, but installation requires licensed professionals and is costly
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed as a standalone unit that can be attached to the exterior of water pipes without requiring internal installation. The sensor components are integrated into a self-contained housing that clips onto the outside of pipes, eliminating the need for professional plumbing installation while still providing accurate water flow monitoring through external vibration sensing.
3Measurement precision
If semi-permanent installation is used for water monitoring devices, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device relocation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a dynamic attachment system that allows for easy installation and removal while maintaining measurement accuracy during use. The clamping mechanism provides sufficient contact pressure for accurate vibration sensing when installed, but can be quickly released and relocated to different positions without damage or loss of functionality, enabling users to move the device between different water fixtures as 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
Enables accurate monitoring of water usage without requiring professional installation, promoting mindful water use and reducing installation costs.
Implementation Method 1
at least one vibration sensor for periodically acquiring one or more sensed values indicative of an instantaneous sensed vibration of the structure
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid flow timing device, including attaching means for attaching the device to a structure having or in mechanical communication with a fluid conduit; a power supply; at least one vibration sensor for periodically acquiring one or more sensed values indicative of an instantaneous sensed vibration of the structure; at least one processor configured to periodically process a set of the one or more sensed values to determine whether the set of the one or more sensed values are indicative of the presence or absence of fluid flow in the fluid conduit, and control an operation of a timer module depending on the determination; and output means for providing an output signal indicating a status of the timer module.