Self-Powered Water Valve with Hydroelectric Generator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated water control systems are cumbersome to install, require access to an electrical power supply, and often need remote water detection sensors, making them impractical for widespread use in residential and industrial settings, particularly for detecting leaks and managing water usage effectively.
Innovation Solution
A self-powered water monitoring and control device equipped with a detector for measuring environmental parameters, a hydroelectric power generator for energy, a radiofrequency transmitter and receiver for data communication, and an electrical actuator for valve control, allowing for real-time monitoring and leak detection without external power sources or remote sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automated water control systems are installed, then water leak detection and control capability is improved, but installation complexity and requirement for external power supply increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-powered operation where the water flow itself generates electrical energy through a hydroelectric generator to power the monitoring electronics, eliminating the need for external power supplies and complex installations. The device serves itself by using the resource being monitored (water flow) to power the monitoring system.
2Reliability
If remote water detection sensors are deployed, then leak detection coverage is improved, but system complexity and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring device is self-powered by a hydroelectric generator that converts the kinetic energy of flowing water into electrical energy. This eliminates the need for external power sources and makes the system suitable for remote locations without power infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the hydraulic energy of flowing water to drive a turbine generator, converting mechanical energy from water flow into electrical energy to power the electronic components and communication systems.
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 device effectively prevents water leaks and floods, captures water consumption data, and alerts users or remote services to abnormal usage patterns, enabling efficient water management and reducing waste, while being easy to install and operate.
Implementation Method 1
a hydroelectric power generator for energy
Implementation Method 2
a radiofrequency transmitter for transmitting data relating to the at least one environmental parameter
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates in part to an autonomous, self-powered valve for continuous monitoring of water flow within a domestic or commercial water pipe network. The invention also relates to a network in which the valve is remotely monitored for detection of abnormalities in water use patterns.