Hot Water Recirculation System with Point-of-Use Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hot water recirculation systems are not effective in saving water and providing instant hot water comfort, as they rely on temperature sensors that are not accurate when installed outdoors or in unconditioned environments, leading to unnecessary energy consumption and water waste.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a temperature probe, a pump, and a wireless communication network to control hot water delivery based on sensed temperature at the point of use, using a controller and smart plug to optimize water recirculation and reduce energy consumption by measuring temperature only at the point of use, allowing for on-demand hot water delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If temperature sensors are installed outdoors or in unconditioned environments to enable remote temperature monitoring, then the system can control hot water delivery from a distance, but the temperature readings become inaccurate leading to unnecessary energy consumption and water waste
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using the existing ambient temperature environment (indoor or protected outdoor locations) as a proxy for water temperature monitoring. Instead of directly measuring water temperature in unconditioned outdoor locations, the system uses ambient air temperature as an indirect indicator, which provides sufficiently accurate readings for controlling hot water delivery while avoiding the measurement errors that would occur with direct outdoor water temperature sensing.
2Reliability
If the pump runs continuously to ensure hot water availability, then instant hot water comfort is provided, but energy consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by operating the pump in intermittent cycles rather than continuously. The system monitors ambient temperature and activates the pump only when temperature thresholds indicate hot water is needed, allowing the hot water in the pipes to be utilized before the next pump cycle begins. This periodic operation maintains reliable hot water availability while dramatically reducing pump energy consumption compared to continuous operation.
3Reliability
If the pump run time is extended to ensure adequate hot water delivery, then hot water availability is improved, but energy consumption and water waste increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by operating the pump for shorter, more frequent cycles rather than extended continuous operation. The system provides just enough hot water to meet demand by using multiple brief pump cycles throughout the day, each delivering a partial amount of hot water that is sufficient for immediate needs. This approach ensures adequate hot water delivery while minimizing energy waste compared to extended pump run times.
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 solution reduces energy consumption by cutting the pump run time by about 93% and ensures consistent hot water availability, saving water and lowering utility bills through precise temperature control and efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature probe coupled to the controller for detecting the water temperature at the site
Implementation Method 2
a pump for circulating water from a water heater/tankless heater to the site
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling water delivery throughout a household water delivery network that includes bathroom and kitchen sinks, as well as other equipment for dispensing water, said system including a controller disposed at a site, the temperature of the water of which is to be controlled; said controller including a temperature probe for detecting the water temperature at the site; a pump for circulating water from a water heater to the site; and a wireless communication network that interconnects the controller with the pump in order to control hot water delivered from the water heater based on sensed temperature at the temperature probe. Also a process for controlling the water temperature of a water delivery system that includes a pump, either via a wifi hub or a system APP. Also disclosed is a novel adjustment ring associated with the valve.