Plumbing Sensor Nodes for Blockage Location Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing alarm systems for detecting drain and sewage pipe blockages, leaks, and potential overflows in multi-level buildings are not easily installable and fail to accurately identify the location of blockages, posing risks to property and health.
Innovation Solution
A drain alert system comprising conductive leads, float switches, pressure sensors, and acoustic/vibration sensors connected to a controller that triggers alarms and provides location-specific alerts when blockages or leaks are detected, using customizable sensors and adaptive learning software for early warning and notification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If alarm systems are installed on cleanouts or sewer lines to detect blockages, then blockage detection capability is improved, but installation complexity and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the detection function into multiple independent sensor nodes that can be installed at different locations (drain pipes, vent stacks, cleanouts) throughout the plumbing system. Each node operates independently and communicates wirelessly with the controller, allowing flexible installation without requiring complex wiring through the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces traditional wired mechanical alarm systems with wireless sensor nodes that communicate via wireless signals. This eliminates the need for complex electrical wiring through walls and ceilings, significantly simplifying installation while maintaining reliable blockage detection capability.
2Reliability
If traditional alarm systems are installed to detect blockages, then alarm function is provided, but ability to identify approximate location of blockage is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The plumbing system is divided into multiple zones with sensor nodes strategically placed at different locations (drain pipes, vent stacks, cleanouts). When a blockage is detected, the system identifies which specific sensor node triggered the alarm, providing location information about where the blockage is occurring in the plumbing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor nodes continuously monitor plumbing conditions and provide feedback to the controller. When a blockage is detected, the system provides immediate feedback about the location through wireless communication, enabling rapid identification and response to the problem area.
3Measurement precision
If multiple sensor nodes are installed throughout the plumbing system to improve detection accuracy, then blockage location identification is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses wireless communication between sensor nodes and the controller, eliminating the need for complex wired infrastructure. Each sensor node is a self-contained unit with integrated sensing, processing, and communication capabilities, reducing overall system complexity despite having multiple nodes.
Solution Approach 2:
Each sensor node is designed as a universal, multi-functional unit that can detect various conditions (blockages, leaks, pressure changes) and communicate wirelessly with the controller. This standardized design simplifies the overall system architecture despite having multiple nodes throughout the plumbing system.
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 effectively alerts users to blockages and leaks, providing early warnings and helping to prevent damage by accurately identifying the location of issues in plumbing systems, even in complex multi-level buildings, through customizable alerts and wireless communication options.
Implementation Method 1
The conductive leads extend down the drain pipe, hanging from the alarm or the strainer, and send a signal to the alarm when the water level in the drain pipe rises above the location of the leads
Implementation Method 2
The float switch extends down the drain pipe, hanging from the alarm or the strainer, and sends a signal to the alarm when the water level in the drain pipe causes the float to rise above its fully extended resting position
Implementation Method 3
The controller receives signals from the sensors indicating a sensed parameter in the plumbing system at the location of the particular sensor. The controller compares the signals to a predetermined threshold value to see if the sensed parameter is higher than or lower than the threshold value, which would indicate a blockage
Implementation Method 4
A drain alert system comprising conductive leads, float switches, pressure sensors, and acoustic/vibration sensors connected to a controller that triggers alarms
Data Source
AI summary
A standing water alert system comprises two conductive wires or a float extending into a drain and connected to an audible or visual alarm that is triggered when standing water is present. A drain alert system and method comprises a plurality of sensors, such as pressure or acoustic/vibration sensors, at various locations within a plumbing or fluid filtration system to measure pressure or an acoustic profile at that location and a control system to compare the measured parameters to a threshold value or range and/or to other measured parameters from nearby sensor locations. A signal is sent to a remote user or computer or an alarm is triggered when the comparison shows a potential blockage, a leak, or indicating that a filter needs to be replaced or cleaned. An approximate location of the blockage, leak, or fouled filter is determined by comparing measured parameters at nearby sensor locations.