Fluid Leak Detection System with Motorized Valve Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems fail to automatically detect and respond to fluid leaks from appliances, leading to uncontrolled flooding and damage, as they require manual intervention to shut off water supply.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a sensor, valve module, adjustable resistance device, and processor that automatically detects fluid leaks and controls a motorized ball valve to restrict or arrest fluid flow, using feedback circuitry to manage valve positions and fluid flow based on sensing signals and voltage thresholds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manually operated shut-off valves are used, then the system is simple and reliable, but automatic leak detection and response is not achieved, leading to uncontrolled flooding
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into distinct functional modules: sensor module for leak detection, control module for processing signals, and valve module for flow control. This segmentation allows automatic leak response while keeping each module relatively simple and maintainable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service through automatic leak detection and response. The sensor automatically detects leaks, the controller automatically processes the signal, and the valve automatically responds without human intervention, eliminating the need for manual monitoring and operation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If catch basins are used to contain water, then some flooding is contained, but the storage capacity is quickly exceeded by unrestricted water flow
Solution Approach 1:
The system takes preliminary action by detecting leaks early through sensors and automatically closing valves before large volumes of water can escape. This preventive approach stops leaks at the source rather than attempting to contain already-released water, addressing the harmful effect before it escalates.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from sensors that continuously monitor for leak conditions. When a leak is detected, the feedback signal triggers automatic valve closure, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to actual leak conditions and adjusts water flow accordingly.
3Ease of operation
If motorized valves with feedback circuitry are used, then precise automatic control is achieved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical valve operation with automated electronic control. Motorized valves with feedback circuitry eliminate the need for human intervention, providing precise automatic control that responds to sensor signals and maintains system safety without manual 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
Effectively prevents flooding by automatically shutting off the water supply when a leak is detected and reopening once the leak is resolved, reducing damage and manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor is configured to provide a first voltage level when exposed to a fluid flowing from a fluid source and is further configured to provide a second voltage level when not exposed to the fluid
Implementation Method 2
The adjustable resistance device is configured to provide a voltage threshold
Implementation Method 3
The valve module includes at least one valve that is selectively switchable between an open position to allow fluid flow from the fluid source and a closed position to substantially arrest fluid flow from the fluid source
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid leak detection system includes a sensor, a control module and a valve module. The sensor is adapted to be placed near a fluid source, such as a water supply line of an appliance. The valve module advantageously includes a motorized ball valve or a magnetic latch configured to arrest fluid flow through a supply line. The control module actuates the valve module and an audible alarm when the sensor detects a fluid leak. The valve module closes a valve positioned along the water line to restrict flow through the water line until the control unit has been manually reset or until the leaked fluid has been removed. The control module also features user inputs to allow the valve to be manually cycled for cleaning, for instance.