Electric Water Heater Consumption Estimation via External Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for estimating the consumption of electric storage water heaters are complex and require professional intervention, involving plumbing and electrical knowledge, making them difficult to install and use for energy management and savings.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising temperature sensors on hot and cold water pipes and a magnetic field sensor on the electrical power cable, connected to a processing circuit that estimates electrical and water consumption by detecting heating periods and hot water withdrawals, allowing users to access energy balances and adjust usage remotely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a meter is installed at the hot water tank to estimate consumption, then consumption data can be obtained, but the installation becomes complex and requires professional intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses intermediary sensors (temperature sensor on the hot water pipe, magnetic field sensor on the power cable) that indirectly measure consumption parameters without requiring direct installation in the water tank or electrical panel. The temperature sensor detects hot water withdrawal by measuring temperature variations in the pipe, and the magnetic field sensor detects power consumption by measuring the magnetic field around the cable, thus obtaining consumption data through indirect measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/electrical measurement devices (flow meters, current transformers) that require professional installation with simple magnetic field and temperature sensors that can be easily attached to external surfaces. The magnetic field sensor replaces electrical current measurement equipment, and the temperature sensor replaces flow measurement equipment, simplifying the installation process while maintaining measurement capability.
2Measurement precision
If conventional meters and sensors are installed to monitor consumption, then accurate data is obtained, but plumbing and electrical expertise is required for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs intermediary sensing methods that do not require penetration into the water system or electrical system. The temperature sensor attaches to the external surface of the hot water pipe to detect temperature changes caused by water flow, and the magnetic field sensor attaches to the external surface of the power cable to detect current flow, eliminating the need for plumbing or electrical expertise.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing system is designed to be self-installed by the end user without requiring professional services. The sensors are attached using simple mounting mechanisms that do not require specialized tools or knowledge, allowing consumers to independently install the consumption monitoring system in their homes.
3Measurement precision
If professional installation is required for consumption monitoring, then accurate measurement is achieved, but user accessibility and remote management are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a feedback system where consumption data collected by the sensors is processed and communicated to the user through a communication interface. This allows users to receive real-time or periodic feedback about their hot water and electricity consumption, enabling them to make informed decisions about their energy usage and adjust their behavior accordingly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a measurement device and a communication device. The sensors not only measure temperature and magnetic field parameters but also serve as data collection points for the overall consumption monitoring system, which then provides user interface functionality for remote access and management through communication networks.
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
Enables users to efficiently manage and save energy by providing precise consumption data without requiring extensive plumbing or electrical expertise, allowing for remote operation adjustments based on consumption thresholds.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature sensor arranged to measure the temperature at a hot water extraction pipe from a storage tank of the water heater and capable of measuring a temperature variation caused by the circulation of the hot water
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic field sensor arranged to measure an intensity of the magnetic field at an electrical power supply cable of the water heater
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The present invention relates to a system (3) for estimating the consumption of an electric storage water heater (1) comprising: - a temperature sensor (17) arranged to measure the temperature at the level of a hot water extraction pipe (11) from a storage tank (7) of the water heater, - a magnetic field sensor (21) arranged to measure the intensity of the magnetic field at the level of a power supply cable (13) of the water heater, and - a processing circuit (23) configured to estimate, over a given period of time, based on the measurements of the temperature and magnetic field sensors, the electrical energy and water consumption of the water heater.