Fluid Leak Detection Apparatus with Pump Drainage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for detecting and containing fluid leaks from devices like water heaters often require complex installations, professional assistance, and rely on gravity for drainage, limiting their versatility and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A portable fluid apparatus with a base having a canal and reservoir system that directs fluid gravitationally to a drainage area, equipped with fluid detectors and a water displacement mechanism, allowing for detection and containment of leaks without the need for gravity-driven drainage, and facilitating easy installation and use by unskilled individuals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If gravity-driven drainage is used in existing leak detection systems, then the system structure is simplified, but the system is limited in versatility and cannot be used in locations without gravity-driven drainage capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the gravity-driven mechanical drainage system with an electric pump system. The pump is activated by a float switch when fluid level rises in the containment pan, enabling drainage without relying on gravity. This substitution allows the system to function in locations where gravity-driven drainage is not feasible, significantly improving versatility while maintaining manageable complexity through automated control.
2Ease of operation
If complex installation procedures are used in existing systems, then the system functionality is improved, but the ease of installation and operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automated control mechanisms where the float switch automatically detects fluid presence and activates the pump without human intervention. The control circuit automatically manages pump operation based on fluid level, eliminating the need for complex manual installation and operation procedures. This self-service automation significantly improves ease of operation while keeping the overall system relatively simple.
3Ease of operation
If professional intervention is required for system operation, then the system reliability is improved, but the ease of operation and independence are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to operate autonomously through automated detection and response mechanisms. The float switch and control circuit work together to automatically activate the pump when fluid leakage is detected, eliminating the need for professional intervention or manual operation. This self-service capability maintains high reliability through consistent automated operation while significantly improving user independence and ease of operation.
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 effective detection and containment of fluid leaks from various devices, reducing damage and requiring minimal installation effort, as it automatically directs fluids to a drainage area, and allows for testing of devices without professional intervention.
Implementation Method 1
the canal has a tapered floor such that fluid in contact with the floor is gravitationally directed to a reservoir
Implementation Method 2
energization of the water displacement mechanism causes the fluid in the reservoir to be discharged from the reservoir through the fluid conduit
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are portable, easy-to-install apparatuses for detecting and containing fluid leaked or otherwise discharged from a fluid-filled device and for facilitating testing and maintenance of the apparatus and fluid-filled devices. In one aspect of the disclosed invention, upon sensing a fluid discharge, the apparatus activates audible and/or visual alarms and directs the discharged fluid to a predetermined drainage area to prevent damage to areas surrounding the fluid-filled device. In another aspect of the present invention, no plumbing or electrical wiring is required to install the apparatus, thereby allowing an unskilled individual to easily and inexpensively install the apparatus. In yet another aspect of the present invention, the apparatus may be easily located since it is not dependent on gravity or a drainage pipe for discharge of the fluid. Furthermore, the apparatus optionally includes an integral leveling mechanism to accommodate leveling of the apparatus when placed on uneven surfaces.