Leakage Detection Device Using Ultrasonic and Conductivity Probes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for detecting leaks in drainage pipes are labor-intensive, rely heavily on visual inspection and operator experience, and require additional equipment like cables and platforms, leading to high costs and reduced accuracy.

Innovation Solution

A leakage quick-detection device comprising an operating rod assembly, a development module, and a probe assembly that includes cameras, ultrasonic transducers, flowmeters, and conductivity probes, allowing for remote data collection and analysis to detect leaks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If visual inspection methods (CCTV, QV, sonar) are used to detect pipe conditions, then measurement precision is improved, but labor cost and time cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepipe condition detection accuracyVSAvoidinspection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated detection system that uses optical sensors and image processing algorithms to automatically identify pipe defects, eliminating the need for inspectors to manually examine pipes and significantly reducing inspection time while maintaining high detection accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-diagnosis by automatically analyzing captured images through embedded algorithms that identify crack patterns, corrosion levels, and structural defects without human intervention, enabling the detection system to service itself and produce immediate results

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If visual inspection methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but labor cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepipe condition detection accuracyVSAvoidinspection cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive manual inspection labor with an automated optical detection system that uses cameras and image processing algorithms to perform inspections, eliminating the need for trained inspectors and significantly reducing labor costs while maintaining or improving detection accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates digital copies of pipe conditions through high-resolution imaging and generates virtual models of pipe defects, allowing remote analysis and reducing the need for physical inspection personnel to travel to inspection sites, thereby reducing overall inspection costs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Measurement precision

If sonar and QV methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to extra cables and platforms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepipe condition detection accuracyVSAvoidequipment setup complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and eliminates the complex supporting infrastructure (cables, platforms, vehicles) traditionally required for pipe inspection by using a self-contained, portable detection device that can be manually positioned and operated without external support systems, thereby simplifying the overall equipment complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses optical images as an intermediary to capture and transmit pipe condition information, replacing the need for complex physical connections and support structures, allowing data to be transmitted wirelessly or through simple conduits rather than requiring elaborate cable systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 device reduces labor intensity and improves accuracy by providing richer data sets on water flow and quality, shortening inspection times, and eliminating the need for extra cables and platforms, thereby reducing maintenance and detection costs.

Implementation Method 1

an ultrasonic transducer... are fixedly connected to bottom surfaces of the four threaded columns respectively

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUltrasonic wave propagation: Ultrasound

Implementation Method 2

a vane wheel flowmeter probe... are fixedly connected to bottom surfaces of the four threaded columns respectively

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid-driven rotation: Impeller

Implementation Method 3

a conductivity probe... are fixedly connected to bottom surfaces of the four threaded columns respectively

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS12313500B2Leakage quick-detection device for drainage pipes
Publication Date: 2025.05.27 SOUTH CHINA INST OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCI MEP
  • US12313500B2 patent drawing
  • US12313500B2 patent drawing
  • US12313500B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A leakage quick-detection device for drainage pipes comprises an operating rod assembly, a development module and a probe assembly. The development module comprises a receiving shell. A development board is fixedly connected into the receiving shell. A receiving and transmitting antenna is fixedly connected to the receiving shell and is electrically connected to the development board. The probe assembly comprises a composite platform. Four threaded through-holes are vertically and regularly formed in the composite platform. The change of water flow and water quality can be quickly reflected by ultrasonic data, conductivity data and flow data; compared with a traditional visual detection method, the detection dimensions are richer, the working time of personnel is shortened, more water flow information can be obtained, the labor intensity is reduced, and the troubleshooting accuracy is improved.