Non-Static Tap Line Water Level Detection System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water level detection systems for pools, spas, and fountains face issues with accuracy, safety, and cost due to static lines, electrical hazards, and fouling, while lacking real-time monitoring and retrofittability to existing systems.
Innovation Solution
A water level detection system utilizing a non-static tap line with a multi-sensor module, including pressure and temperature sensors, that communicates with a controller to adjust water levels accurately and safely, integrated with existing plumbing systems for easy retrofitting and real-time monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a static line is used for water level detection, then the sensor can sense water level outside the pool or spa, but additional cost of the line, coupling, and distance to controller increases system complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the water level sensing function from the pool water itself by using a static line that contains a separate sensing fluid. This allows the sensor to detect water level changes through the static line without requiring direct contact with pool water, eliminating the need for complex in-pool sensor installations while maintaining accurate measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The static line acts as an intermediary between the pool water and the sensor. Instead of placing the sensor directly in the pool water (which would require complex waterproofing and positioning), the static line transmits water level information to the sensor located in a protected environment, simplifying the overall system installation.
2Measurement precision
If sensors are installed in the body of water, then water level can be monitored directly, but electrical hazards and user interruptions due to proximity to swimmers create safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the sensor from direct contact with pool water by using a static line connection. The sensor is installed in a protected location away from swimmers and electrical hazards, while still accurately detecting water level changes through the static line that contains sensing fluid connected to the pool.
Solution Approach 2:
The static line serves as a safe intermediary that transmits water level information from the pool to the sensor without requiring the sensor to be positioned in hazardous areas. This eliminates electrical hazards and safety risks associated with placing sensors in or near pool water while maintaining measurement accuracy.
3Productivity
If sensors are placed in the body of water, then real-time monitoring is possible, but fouling due to water borne debris causes inaccuracies and failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensor from the pool water environment by using a static line connection. The sensor is positioned in a clean, protected location away from debris, swimmers, and other contaminants that would cause fouling. The static line contains the sensing fluid and transmits water level information without exposing the sensor to harmful environmental factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The static line acts as a protective intermediary barrier between the pool water and the sensor. It allows real-time water level monitoring while preventing fouling from water-borne debris from reaching the sensor. The static line can be easily maintained and replaced if needed, ensuring long-term reliability.
4Measurement precision
If existing water leveling devices are used, then water level can be maintained, but they lack real-time monitoring and ability to detect leaks or abnormal filling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous real-time monitoring of water level through the static line connection, providing ongoing feedback about water level changes. This enables the system to detect abnormal filling rates, potential leaks, and other issues as they occur, allowing for immediate intervention before water is wasted or damage occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of potential problems such as leaks or abnormal filling conditions before they result in significant water loss or damage. By continuously monitoring water level changes through the static line, the system can identify issues early and alert users or automatically respond to prevent water waste.
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 system ensures accurate and safe water level management, reduces the risk of overfilling and wasting water, detects leaks, and integrates with existing systems without additional plumbing, providing real-time data for efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
A water level detection system utilizing a non-static tap line with a multi-sensor module, including pressure and temperature sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A water level detection system in a pool, spa, fountain or water feature, the water level detection system being provided with a tap line coupled to a plumbing line on a suction or supply side of a filtration system and admitting water from the pool, spa, fountain or water feature such that the change in level of the water in the tap line corresponds to a change in level of the water in the pool, spa, fountain or water feature. A sensing module has at least one sensor for detecting the height of a column of water or the pressure of a column of air in the water tap line. A controller is coupled to the sensing module and adapted to collect the data from the sensors that detect changes in the level of the water level of the pool, spa, fountain or water feature, communicate the detection of such a change, and report such a change to initiate addition or removal of water from the pool, spa, fountain or water feature body of water to adjust the water level in the body of water to a set point.