Linear Sensor Bus Architecture for Large-Area Liquid Leak Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid leak detection systems face challenges in reliability, cost, and performance, particularly when covering large areas and requiring flexible installation, maintenance, and management.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a central management unit and linear sensors connected in series, with two-way communication between the linear query bus and the central management unit, allowing for flexible network configurations and accessory integration, including branches, terminators, and neutral cables, to enhance detection and localization of leaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If linear sensors are connected in series to cover long distances or large surfaces, then the detection area is extended, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication bus serves multiple functions: it transmits both power and data signals, and can operate in different configurations (single-ended or dual-ended). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby extending detection area without proportionally increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic configuration where the communication bus can be connected to the central management unit at one end or both ends depending on the application requirements. This flexibility enables adaptation to different detection scenarios without requiring completely different system architectures
2Length of stationary object
If linear sensors are connected in series to cover long distances, then the detection range is extended, but reliability decreases due to potential break points
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the communication bus for break points by detecting communication failures or signal interruptions. When a break is detected, the system can identify the location and trigger alerts, providing feedback that maintains system reliability even over extended distances
Solution Approach 2:
The linear sensor system can be divided into multiple segments or zones along the communication bus. Each segment can be independently monitored and managed, allowing the system to maintain reliability by isolating faults to specific segments rather than causing complete system failure
3Device complexity
If traditional single-ended communication is used, then device complexity is reduced, but information loss occurs due to inability to detect breaks
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dual-ended communication as an optional enhancement rather than requiring it for all applications. This partial action approach allows users to choose the appropriate communication mode based on their specific needs, gaining break detection capability only when necessary without universally increasing complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A system for detecting leaks of liquid is disclosed, including a central management unit and a plurality of linear sensors, each of the linear sensors including at least one communication element including at least one electronic communication module and at least one linear conductor that are connected together to form a communication bus. The linear sensors are arranged so that the communicating elements of the linear sensors form a first linear interrogation bus having two ends, the first linear interrogation bus being connected to the central management unit by at least one of its ends, and in that the central management unit interrogates the plurality of linear sensors by transmitting interrogation signals and receiving response signals via the two ends of the first linear interrogation bus.