Proximity-Based Shower Flow Control for Water Conservation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid conservation systems, particularly in shower environments, lack effective methods to dynamically control water flow rates based on user proximity and activity, leading to inefficient water usage.
Innovation Solution
A fluid flow control system that utilizes proximity sensors to adjust water flow rates in real-time based on the user's position relative to the shower head, incorporating a controller and flow control device to regulate flow, and optionally includes temperature sensors for further optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If passive full time flow restrictors are used, then water conservation is achieved, but water flow rate is continuously restricted even when not needed
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts flow rate based on real-time detection of user presence and activity level. The flow control device transitions from static restriction to dynamic control, allowing full flow when user is present and active, and restricted flow when user is absent or inactive, thereby resolving the contradiction between conservation and adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor user presence and activity, providing feedback to the controller which adjusts flow rate accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables the system to adapt flow rates to actual usage conditions, achieving both conservation and versatility
2Ease of operation
If manually activated systems are used, then flow rate control is available, but continuous monitoring and adjustment based on user presence is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic flow rate adjustment based on sensor detection of user presence and activity, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The controller autonomously manages flow control device actuation, achieving high automation while maintaining ease of use through automatic response to user needs
3Extent of automation
If timer controlled systems are used, then automated flow rate adjustment is provided, but real-time response to user presence and activity is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses real-time sensor feedback to detect user presence and activity level, enabling immediate automated response. Unlike timer-based systems that operate on fixed schedules, this system continuously monitors conditions and adjusts flow rate in real-time, achieving both automation and rapid response
Solution Approach 2:
The system is prepared to adjust flow rate immediately upon detecting user presence through pre-configured control logic and ready-state sensors. This preliminary preparation enables instant response without waiting for timer cycles or manual activation
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid flow control system having a fluid inlet configured to be operatively coupled to a fluid source, a fluid outlet in fluid communication with the fluid inlet such that fluid may exit the system therethrough, a proximity sensor for detecting the position of an object within a region adjacent the sensor, and a flow control device configured to regulate fluid flow between the inlet and outlet in response to object detection by the sensor, wherein the flow control device varies the fluid flow proportional to the detected distance of an object from the sensor. A water flow control system for use in a shower environment is also provided, as well as a shower control system, methods for controlling water flow based on sensing of the presence and location of an object, and methods for reducing water consumption.