Gas Flow Indicator for Automatic Gas-Out Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas appliance monitoring systems fail to automatically detect and alert gas-out conditions during operation and sustained gas flow after a predetermined period, often requiring manual activation and lacking reliable detection of appliance operation, which can lead to inefficiency and safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A gas appliance monitoring system utilizing a highly sensitive piston-type positive displacement fluid flow indicator/switch with dual electronic sensors to differentiate between intentional appliance shutdown and gas-out conditions, coupled with a timer and alarm system for automatic detection and alerting of gas-out and sustained gas flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a single sensor is used to monitor gas supply pressure, then the system can alert of low fuel, but the system cannot be automatically activated or deactivated and requires manual operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a pressure sensor and a flow sensor into a single integrated monitoring system. The pressure sensor detects gas supply pressure while the flow sensor detects gas flow, and their signals are processed together by a microcontroller to automatically determine appliance operation status and detect gas-out conditions, eliminating the need for manual activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring system performs multiple functions using the same sensor components: it detects appliance operation status, monitors gas supply pressure, detects gas-out conditions, and provides automated alerts. This multi-functionality allows automatic operation without requiring separate dedicated sensors for each function.
2Measurement precision
If a flame detector is used to indicate gas flow, then it provides positive indication of gas flow, but it cannot provide positive indication that gas flow has stopped
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a flow sensor as an intermediary device that directly detects gas flow through the flow path, rather than relying on the flame detector which only indicates the presence of flame. The flow sensor provides direct measurement of gas flow conditions, enabling reliable detection of both flow presence and flow cessation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the optical/flame-based detection system with a mechanical flow sensor that directly measures gas flow through pressure differential or displacement mechanisms. This mechanical substitution provides more reliable and direct measurement of gas flow conditions compared to flame detection.
3Loss of information
If electronic weighing of the tank is used to calculate time remaining, then it can display amount of time remaining, but it cannot discern situations where flame has stopped and gas is still flowing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the flow sensor continuously monitors gas flow conditions and provides real-time feedback to the microcontroller. This feedback mechanism allows the system to distinguish between different operational states (flame on with gas flowing, flame off with gas still flowing, gas-out conditions) based on the presence or absence of gas flow, rather than relying solely on tank weight calculations.
4Ease of operation
If manual activation of the monitoring system is required, then the system can be simpler, but it is less likely to be used and requires user intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system automatically activates itself by detecting gas flow through the flow sensor, which indicates appliance operation. The system self-regulates by monitoring both pressure and flow conditions, automatically detecting gas-out conditions and providing alerts without requiring any user activation or intervention. The system also automatically deactivates when gas flow stops.
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 automatic and reliable detection of gas-out conditions without pressure sensors or tank scales, reducing false alarms and ensuring efficient fuel usage while enhancing safety by alerting users to potential hazards.
Implementation Method 1
A gas appliance monitoring system utilizing a highly sensitive piston-type positive displacement fluid flow indicator/switch
Implementation Method 2
piston-type positive displacement fluid flow indicator/switch with dual electronic sensors to differentiate between intentional appliance shutdown and gas-out conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A gas appliance monitoring apparatus for automatically detecting and alerting to a “gas-out” condition of a gas appliance during operation, and/or for alerting to the presence of prolonged “gas-on” conditions of an appliance. The apparatus utilizes a highly sensitive low loss and low flow gas flow indicator with multiple flow sensors to monitor the gas flow characteristics of the appliance during use. A gas flow analyzer and alarm timing mechanism analyzes the gas flow characteristics and sounds an alarm at the appliance or wirelessly at a remote location upon detection of either of the above conditions. A biasing attraction magnet is incorporated in the fluid flow indicator to offset either the force of gravity or a return spring in low flow/low pressure applications. The piston is sealed for use in high pressure/low flow applications, and provided with a vent hole for residual gas bleed-off upon a stoppage of gas flow.