Fluid Leak Detection Using Dynamic Pressure Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid leak detection systems face challenges in reliably distinguishing leak events from normal fluid flow events, often resulting in false alarms and inefficiencies due to the variability of leak rates and intensities, and the difficulty in accurately measuring fluid flow signatures.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a pressure sensor and a shut-off valve, where the processor compares pressure measurements in open and closed states to detect leaks, and can actuate the valve to block or allow fluid flow, using multiple measurements over time to determine the presence of a leak based on predefined thresholds and slope analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fluid flow measurement methods are used to detect leaks, then the system can identify potential leak events, but the reliability is low due to false alarms from normal fluid flow events
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes the flow rate through the hollow structure by transitioning between open and closed valve states. This dynamic operation enables comparison of pressure measurements across different flow conditions, allowing the system to distinguish between normal flow variations and actual leak events based on how pressure responds to flow rate changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the flow rate parameter by actuating the valve between open and closed states. By measuring pressure at different flow rate conditions (open valve with flow, closed valve with no flow), the system creates a reference profile that helps distinguish leak events from normal flow events, thereby improving detection reliability and reducing false alarms.
2Measurement precision
If the shut-off valve is closed to block fluid flow for measurement, then leak detection accuracy improves, but fluid flow is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs periodic valve actuation cycles, alternating between open and closed states in a repeating sequence. This periodic operation allows the system to gather pressure measurements under both flow and no-flow conditions at regular intervals, maintaining measurement precision for leak detection while minimizing continuous interruption of fluid flow to acceptable levels.
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
This approach enhances leak detection reliability by accurately differentiating between leak events and normal fluid flow, reducing false alarms and allowing for timely intervention to prevent property damage and fluid waste.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure sensor for measuring pressure of fluid within a hollow structure
Data Source
AI summary
According to at least one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to leak detection. There is pressure sensor for measuring pressure of fluid within a hollow structure, a shut-off valve for controlling fluid flow through the hollow structure, and a processor communicatively coupled to the pressure sensor and to the shut-off valve. The processor can acquire, from the pressure sensor, a first pressure measurement of the fluid while the shut-off valve is in an open state, and a second pressure measurement of the fluid while the shut-off valve is in a closed state. The processor can detect a fluid leak event based on the first and second pressure measurements.