System for water distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water distribution systems lack optimal usage based on intended usage, leading to inefficiencies in water flow, temperature, and energy consumption, particularly in domestic settings.
Innovation Solution
A smart water distribution system with a core unit that identifies individual water user units, allowing for tailored water flow, temperature, and quality requests, and optimizes energy use by recycling and reusing water between units, utilizing sensors and a control unit to manage multiple demands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If water distribution systems provide water to multiple user units, then water supply coverage is improved, but energy consumption increases due to lack of optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments water distribution into multiple quality levels (fresh water, reused water, grey water) and directs different user units to appropriate sources based on their specific needs, avoiding unnecessary energy expenditure on heating or treating water beyond what is required
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit dynamically adjusts water distribution parameters (flow rate, temperature, quality) based on real-time sensor data from individual user units, optimizing energy usage by matching supply characteristics to actual demand rather than providing uniform high-quality water to all users
2Device complexity
If water is distributed without identification of user units, then system complexity is reduced, but water and energy efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Sensor units at each user unit provide feedback to the control unit about water quality requirements, consumption patterns, and operational status, enabling the system to optimize distribution and minimize waste without requiring complex manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
Each user unit autonomously monitors its own water quality needs and communicates requests to the control unit, which automatically routes appropriate water sources, reducing the need for centralized complex decision-making while maintaining high efficiency
3Loss of substance
If water of different qualities is used for different purposes, then resource efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The water distribution network is segmented into multiple quality zones (fresh water mains, reused water lines, grey water systems) with automatic identification and routing capabilities, allowing efficient resource utilization while maintaining manageable system architecture through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit serves multiple functions by managing water quality routing, monitoring sensor data, identifying user units, and optimizing energy usage through a single integrated system rather than separate specialized systems for each function
Data Source
AI summary
A system for water distribution includes a core unit arranged to drive distribution of a water flow to one or more water user units; at least two water user units; and a control unit for operation of the system for water distribution. Two water user units have individual identities, and which the two water user units are connected to the control unit to enable for requesting for water of a certain flow and a certain temperature so that the control unit identifies which water user is making the request and then performs an activity based on the request.