Low-Voltage Utility Switch Retrofit for Latching Solenoid Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote utility control systems face challenges in accessing high voltage for installation and power distribution, leading to difficulties in meeting building codes and generating excess heat at valves, which can cause calcifications and reduce water flow.
Innovation Solution
A retrofitting kit that converts a light switch into a remote utility control system using low-voltage control of solenoids, where high voltage is converted to low voltage DC power, reducing the need for extensive high voltage wiring and minimizing heat generation through latching solenoids controlled by low-voltage pulses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If high voltage is used for power distribution in remote utility control systems, then sufficient power can be delivered to control valves, but building code compliance becomes difficult and excessive heat is generated at valves causing calcifications and reduced water flow
Solution Approach 1:
A low-voltage control system serves as an intermediary between the user interface and the utility control function. The system converts high-voltage power to low-voltage DC power, using the low-voltage system to control latching solenoids that operate the utility valves. This intermediary approach eliminates the need to distribute high voltage throughout the building while still providing sufficient control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces continuous high-voltage power delivery with a low-voltage electronic control system using microprocessors, ADCs, and digital signal processing. The mechanical/electrical system of direct high-voltage control is substituted with an electronic control architecture that communicates with latching solenoids, eliminating heat generation issues while maintaining control functionality.
2Power
If extensive high voltage wiring is installed for remote utility control, then power can be delivered to remote locations, but installation complexity and building code compliance difficulties increase
Solution Approach 1:
The low-voltage control system acts as an intermediary that receives minimal power at a central location, converts it to low-voltage DC, and distributes control signals through simple low-voltage wiring to remote solenoid actuators. This eliminates the need for complex high-voltage wiring infrastructure while maintaining the ability to deliver control power to remote utility locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic control signals and pulse-width modulation (PWM) to deliver power and control commands to latching solenoids. Instead of continuous high-voltage power delivery, the system uses timed pulses and periodic communication protocols, reducing the need for extensive power wiring while maintaining control capability.
3Reliability
If continuous power is supplied to solenoids for utility control, then reliable control is achieved, but excessive heat is generated and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs latching solenoids that require power only during state transitions (latching/unlatching) rather than continuous power supply. The microcontroller sends periodic control pulses to change valve states, and the solenoids maintain their position without continuous power. This periodic action dramatically reduces power consumption and heat generation while maintaining reliable control throughout the utility's operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system recovers and stores the latched state information in memory within the microcontroller, eliminating the need for continuous power to maintain the control state. When power is removed or reduced, the system can recover the previous state from memory and restore control functionality, ensuring reliability while minimizing ongoing power consumption.
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
This solution allows for efficient remote control of utilities like water and gas with reduced power consumption and heat generation, while avoiding compliance issues with building codes by using low-voltage wiring, thus enhancing the reliability and safety of the system.
Implementation Method 1
A remote utility control system 102 includes an AC/DC converter 203 configured to transform high voltage AC power to a low voltage DC power
Implementation Method 2
A first latching solenoid 418 may be controlled by a first pulse and a second latching solenoid 422 may be controlled by a second pulse
Data Source
AI summary
A utility control system that includes a switch control unit for selectively controlling a utility. The switch control unit may include a visual indicator configured to illuminate a first color when a switch selection mechanism is in a first position to indicate the on state of the utility and a illuminate a second color when the switch selection mechanism is in a second position to indicate the off state of the utility. Control of the utility may be accomplished through generating low-voltage pulses that cause a latching solenoid to latch to a first state or a second state. The utility system may also be provided as a retrofitting kit for a light switch.