Leak Detection System Using Dual-Voltage Measuring Bridge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leakage monitoring systems for space-enclosing objects, such as pipes and hoses, are not sensitive enough to detect even the smallest leaks, particularly at seams or through micropores, and lack the capability for preventative monitoring before a leak occurs.
Innovation Solution
A leakage monitoring system utilizing an electrically conductive element integrated into the object's wall as part of a measuring bridge, which includes both alternating and direct voltage components, allowing for the detection of subtle changes in electrical parameters that precede a leak, enabling predictive monitoring and reliable detection of minor leaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional leakage sensors are used to monitor pipe walls, then the system can detect leaks, but it cannot reliably detect even the smallest leaks at seams or through micropores
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameters (applying both direct voltage and alternating voltage) to enhance the sensor's ability to detect subtle changes in the pipe wall that precede leaks. This allows detection of micropores and seam leaks that conventional single-parameter sensors miss.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor comprises multiple electrically conductive elements with different properties (direct voltage conductor and alternating voltage conductor) combined in one monitoring system. This composite sensor structure enables simultaneous detection of multiple wall changes, improving both sensitivity and reliability.
2Reliability
If conventional sensors monitor only actual leaks, then the system responds to existing problems, but it cannot provide preventative monitoring before leaks occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary detection of wall changes (damage, wear, erosion) that precede actual leaks. By monitoring these subtle changes using multiple voltage types, the system can trigger alarms before leaks occur, allowing preventative maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
By applying both direct and alternating voltage to the sensor, the system can detect subtle changes in electrical parameters that occur during wall degradation but before leakage begins. This enhanced parameter detection enables reliable preventative monitoring.
3Measurement precision
If a single voltage type is applied to the sensor, then the system is simple, but it cannot distinguish subtle changes in electrical parameters that indicate impending leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies changes in voltage parameters (both direct voltage and alternating voltage) to the sensor to detect subtle electrical changes in the pipe wall. This multi-parameter voltage approach enhances leak detection precision while managing system complexity through integrated evaluation.
4Area of stationary object
If conventional sensors are used in large wall areas, then coverage is achieved, but the system cannot reliably detect smallest leaks across the entire area
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor design with multiple conductive elements responding to different voltage types creates a universal monitoring system that maintains high detection sensitivity across large wall areas. The evaluation device processes signals from all sensor elements to provide area-wide leak detection capability.
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
The system effectively detects and localizes even minor leaks before they occur, providing robust and reliable monitoring of large wall areas and various types of fluids, with enhanced signal processing to distinguish between normal and fault states, suitable for both conductive and non-conductive materials.
Implementation Method 1
All materials that provide a sufficiently large change in one of their electrical parameters - in particular electrical resistance, capacitance and / or inductance - in the event of a leak can be used as sensor materials.
Implementation Method 2
All materials that provide a sufficiently large change in one of their electrical parameters - in particular electrical resistance, capacitance and / or inductance - in the event of a leak can be used as sensor materials.
Implementation Method 3
All materials that provide a sufficiently large change in one of their electrical parameters - in particular electrical resistance, capacitance and / or inductance - in the event of a leak can be used as sensor materials.
Implementation Method 4
which is supplied via a voltage source with an operating voltage which contains both alternating voltage components and direct voltage components
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a leak-monitoring system (2) for space-enclosing objects such as pipes (4), hoses or containers that have a surrounding wall (6), and comprising at least one electrically-conductive element that acts as a leak sensor (8) and is mounted on or integrated into said surrounding wall (6). According to the invention, in order to allow simple and reliable monitoring of imminent or existing leaks even for large wall areas, and as universally as possible for different types of medium, said electrically-conductive element is a component of a measurement bridge (12) that comprises an evaluation device for (20) for the bridge voltage (VMess) and that is supplied, by a voltage source (18), with an operating voltage (UG) having both alternating voltage components and direct voltage components.