Leak detection systems for a fluid heating device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional leak detection systems in fluid heating devices are often slow, inefficient, and limited in their ability to detect leaks across the entire circumference of the device, requiring manual installation and lacking comprehensive coverage.
Innovation Solution
An integrated leak detection system that includes a circular band with protrusions extending from its inner surface, configured to receive water leaks and house a sensor, ensuring 360-degree coverage and automatic installation during manufacturing, with the band designed to fit around the outer jacket of the water heater and include a wicking material for effective moisture collection and detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual installation of separate leak sensors is used, then installation flexibility is improved, but installation complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The leak sensor is integrated directly into the bottom pan assembly during manufacturing, combining the sensor, mounting structure, and electrical connections into a single pre-assembled unit. This eliminates the need for separate manual installation of sensors and mounting hardware, reducing installation complexity while maintaining the ability to detect leaks at multiple locations around the water heater circumference.
2Device complexity
If leak sensors are installed only at specific locations, then device complexity is reduced, but leak detection coverage deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bottom pan is divided into multiple radial segments with individual leak sensors positioned at different angular locations around the water heater. Each sensor monitors a specific sector, and the combination of segmented sensors provides comprehensive 360-degree leak detection coverage without requiring a single complex sensor system.
3Ease of operation
If integrated leak detection system is manufactured into the device, then installation ease is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The leak sensor assembly is pre-installed into the bottom pan during the manufacturing process, with electrical connections and mounting structures prepared in advance. This preliminary action ensures proper sensor positioning and electrical connectivity before the water heater is shipped, simplifying field installation while distributing manufacturing complexity across standard production processes.
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 provides rapid and comprehensive leak detection across the entire circumference of the water heater, reducing the risk of undetected leaks and facilitating easier installation, thereby enhancing safety and reducing repair costs.
Implementation Method 1
The wicking material can be attached to the rigid structure along a circumference of the rigid structure... The plug can include one or more prongs that, when installed, insert into or otherwise contact the wicking material
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed technology includes a leak detection system for a fluid heating device, the leak detection system including: a structure configured to at least partially insert into a portion of a fluid heater; a fluid removing portion of or in contact with the structure, the fluid removing portion configured to transport water from the structure to at least one leak sensor; and the at least one leak sensor configured to detect the fluid transported from the structure by the fluid removing portion.