Water Pump Control Using Connection Switcher for Dual Mode Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water pump control apparatuses are unable to simultaneously discharge and supply water from a storage tank automatically, requiring a complex control program and multiple float switches, which complicates the process.
Innovation Solution
A water pump control apparatus with a toggle switch that reverses the connections between two water level detectors and a control unit, allowing the water pump to switch between discharge and supply modes with a simple structure and program, using a centrifugal pump with an impeller driven by an engine and hoses connected to intake and delivery ports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple float switches and complicated control program are used to enable both discharge and supply of water automatically, then the water pump can perform both discharge and supply functions, but the device complexity and control program complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The water pump system is designed to perform multiple functions (discharge and supply) using the same hardware components. The single water pump, two float switches, and control program work together to enable both water discharge from the tank and water supply to the tank, eliminating the need for separate pumps or complex additional hardware for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (which float switch signal is monitored, pump direction) based on the desired function. By switching between monitoring the first float switch for discharge operations and the second float switch for supply operations, the system achieves versatility without adding complex hardware, simply changing control parameters.
2Extent of automation
If multiple float switches are installed to detect water levels for both discharge and supply, then automatic control of both functions is possible, but the number of components and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Two float switches serve dual purposes: the first float switch controls both discharge pump startup and supply pump shutdown, while the second float switch controls both discharge pump shutdown and supply pump startup. This multi-functional use of minimal components achieves automatic control without requiring additional switches for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The control logic merges the functions of discharge and supply operations into a unified system. The same float switches, water pump, and control program handle both water discharge and water supply operations, combining multiple functions into a single integrated system rather than separate systems for each function.
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 both water discharge and supply from a single water pump with a simple control program and structure, reducing the need for additional float switches and complex control logic, allowing for efficient automatic operation.
Implementation Method 1
a water pump (14) having an engine (16) that drives an impeller (72)... when the impeller is driven by the engine
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for controlling a water pump having an engine that drives an impeller, a water storage tank connected to the water pump, a first water level detector that outputs an A signal when a water level is at or higher than a first height and outputs a B signal when lower than the height, a second water level detector that outputs the A signal when the water level is at or lower than a second height and outputs the B signal when higher than the height, a connection switcher that switches connection of the first and second water level detector, and an impeller controller connected to the connection switcher and adapted to control operation of the engine that drives the impeller of the water pump based on the signals outputted from the first and second water level detectors.