Remote On-Demand Hot Water Control for Lower Thermal Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current plumbing systems face inefficiencies in water and energy conservation due to thermal losses in hot water distribution, especially in non-circulating systems, and continuous recirculation systems that waste energy and resources.
Innovation Solution
A remotely controlled 'on command' hot water system using a microprocessor-based controller component that can be located away from the hot water source, connected via communication systems like power line networking, internet, or wireless networks, to monitor and control hot water delivery based on actual usage patterns, optimizing energy and water efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If continuous hot water recirculation is used, then water loss is reduced, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from continuous recirculation to periodic, on-demand recirculation triggered by sensor detection or user commands. The pump operates intermittently based on actual hot water demand patterns rather than continuously, reducing energy consumption while maintaining water availability.
Solution Approach 2:
Temperature sensors and flow detectors provide feedback about actual hot water usage conditions to the controller. This feedback mechanism enables the system to automatically activate recirculation only when hot water is actually being consumed or when sensors detect demand conditions, optimizing the balance between water loss prevention and energy efficiency.
2Loss of information
If remote controller component is added, then monitoring capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A remote controller component acts as an intermediary between the plumbing system sensors and the user interface. This separate controller receives data from temperature sensors and flow detectors via communication protocols (wireless or wired), processes the information, and presents it to users through remote interfaces, distributing system functions to reduce central complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is segmented into separate functional components: sensors distributed throughout the plumbing system, a central controller managing pump operations, and a remote controller providing user interface and monitoring capabilities. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and compositions for controlling and monitoring residential and commercial pumping systems. Preferably, the controlling and monitoring functions include a remotely located controller component capable of displaying alerts and/or from which a user may input commands regulating the functioning of the plumbing system. In particularly preferred examples, the plumbing system is an “on command” hot water system in which hot water availability, use and energy efficiencies and conservation are monitored and maximized.