LPG Regulator Shutoff Device for Automatic Leak Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for LPG leak detection in residential settings lack remote notification and automatic shutoff capabilities, posing safety hazards as they require manual intervention and do not alert occupants outside the immediate area.
Innovation Solution
A shutoff device mounted on LPG regulators that detects leaks and automatically shuts off the valve using a transceiver for remote communication, integrating a sensor to detect the valve position and a motor to rotate the knob to the closed position, with connectivity via mobile apps and local networks for remote control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual leak detection and shutoff systems are used, then device complexity is reduced, but safety and response time deteriorate because occupants must be present and manually intervene
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects leaks using gas sensors and shuts off the valve using an actuator without requiring human intervention. The microcontroller autonomously monitors sensor data and triggers the shutoff mechanism when leak conditions are detected, making the system self-protecting and eliminating the need for manual response.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with electronic sensing and automated actuation. Gas concentration is detected electronically by sensors, processed by a microcontroller, and translated into automated valve actuation, substituting the entire manual detection-and-response chain with an automated electromechanical system.
2Reliability
If remote notification capabilities are added, then safety for absent occupants improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback loops where gas sensors continuously monitor the environment, report data to the microcontroller, and trigger alerts or shutoff actions based on predefined thresholds. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables automatic response to leak conditions and remote notification to occupants, ensuring safety even when absent.
Solution Approach 2:
The microcontroller serves as an intermediary that processes sensor data, determines leak conditions, and coordinates both local actuator commands and remote alert notifications. This intermediary component integrates the sensing, decision-making, and actuation functions, enabling coordinated safety responses through multiple communication channels.
3Loss of time
If automatic shutoff mechanisms are implemented, then response time improves, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary monitoring and detection continuously, maintaining readiness to actuate the valve immediately upon detecting leak conditions. The gas sensors and microcontroller are continuously active or in standby mode, ensuring that the shutoff action can be initiated without delay when a leak occurs, achieving rapid response time.
Solution Approach 2:
The microcontroller performs multiple functions including sensor data acquisition, leak detection logic, actuator control, and alert generation. This multi-functional approach consolidates what could be separate components into a single integrated control unit, simplifying the overall system architecture and potentially reducing manufacturing complexity despite the automated capabilities.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods for leak detection and remote, non-intrusive, automatic shutoff in residential regulators are provided. Such systems and methods can include a shutoff device that includes a mounting bracket for mounting on a supply container, a linking device for coupling to a knob of a valve of a regulator of the supply container, and an actuator for, responsive to a control signal, automatically rotating the linking device, which rotates the knob, which rotates the valve from an on position to an off position. In some embodiments, a leak sensor can detect a presence of a fuel leak and, responsive thereto, transmit the control signal to the actuator, and in some embodiments, a position sensor can determine that a current position of the valve is indicative of the on position and, responsive thereto, transmit the control signal to the actuator.