Self-Powered Wireless Level Sensor for Flushing Tanks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flushing tanks lack water level measurement devices, making it difficult to detect leaks, monitor consumption, and manage water usage due to installation and accessibility issues, as well as challenges in data transmission and power supply.
Innovation Solution
A self-powered, wireless level sensor unit with a turbine power supply and pressure sensors that transmit data externally without cables, allowing for easy installation and remote monitoring of water levels, leaks, and consumption patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If level sensors are placed inside flushing tanks, then water level measurement capability is improved, but installation complexity and accessibility for maintenance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a water-tight membrane as an intermediary barrier between the sensor and the tank interior. The membrane allows pressure transmission from the water column to the sensor while preventing direct contact between the sensor and tank contents, enabling measurement without compromising sensor protection or tank accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit is segmented into distinct functional components: the sensor element positioned in a protected cavity, the water-tight membrane separating the sensor from the tank interior, and the pressure transmission pathway. This segmentation allows the sensor to be installed through the membrane without direct exposure to tank conditions, simplifying installation and maintenance.
2Reliability
If wired level sensors are used, then power supply and data transmission are achieved, but device complexity and installation requirements deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable connection system with a wireless communication system. The sensor unit incorporates a wireless transmitter that communicates level data to external systems without physical cable connections, eliminating the complexity of routing power and data cables through the tank structure while maintaining reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit is designed as a self-contained module that integrates the sensor element, water-tight membrane assembly, and wireless transmitter into a single autonomous unit. This self-service design eliminates the need for external power and data connections, allowing the unit to be installed independently through the water-tight membrane without requiring complex wiring infrastructure.
3Area of stationary object
If flushing tanks are embedded in walls, then space utilization is improved, but accessibility for sensor installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs preliminary action by pre-positioning the sensor unit on the exterior of the flushing tank before final installation. The sensor can be installed through the water-tight membrane from the outside, allowing the tank to be embedded in walls without requiring internal access for sensor installation. This preliminary external installation approach preserves the space-saving benefit of wall embedding while maintaining installation accessibility.
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
Enables accurate and reliable water level monitoring, reducing water waste and facilitating predictive maintenance, life cycle analysis, and automatic alerts through wireless data transmission, without requiring physical changes to the flushing tank system.
Implementation Method 1
a turbine power supply unit, operated by a flow of water taken from the water mains
Implementation Method 2
The invention allows information on the state of a flushing tank to be acquired in a simple and effective way: the unit of the invention does not require connections to an external power supply (since the unit is fully self-powered and low-consumption)
Data Source
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AI summary
A level sensor unit (2) for measuring the water level in a flushing tank (1) of a sanitary appliance comprises a casing (11) provided with a pair of joints (12, 13) connectable to an inlet pipe (14) and an outlet pipe (15), respectively; an electric power supply group (21) and a control unit (23) provided with a wireless transmitter, both housed in the casing (11); a sensor-holder bar (16), projecting from the casing (11) along a longitudinal axis (A); a bottom sensor (17a), positioned at a free lower end (18) of the bar (16) opposite to the casing (11); and a top sensor (17b), positioned at an upper end (19) of the casing (16); the sensors (17a, 17b) are pressure sensors configured to detect pressure changes and calculate the water level in the tank (1) by differential pressure values.