Zero Standby Power Switching Device for Submersible Pumps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for controlling submersible pumps have high standby power consumption due to continuous monitoring of reed contacts or flow sensors, which is not completely eliminated by existing solutions that require manual operation or partial power supply.
Innovation Solution
A device where a secondary switch is controlled by a sensor's state, allowing the controller to be powered off in standby mode, with a hold signal ensuring continued operation for pressure buildup, and using a voltage-controlled electronic switch with a step-down converter and rectifier to minimize power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If continuous monitoring of reed contact or flow sensor is implemented, then the pump operation control is reliable, but the standby power consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power consumption function from the continuous monitoring system by introducing a secondary switch that disconnects the controller from the voltage source during standby mode. The sensor remains connected to detect operational conditions, but the controller is powered off when not needed, eliminating standby power consumption while maintaining reliability through event-triggered activation.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of continuous monitoring, the system uses periodic action by activating the controller only when the sensor detects specific conditions (water flow presence). The secondary switch periodically connects power to the controller based on sensor input, transforming continuous power consumption into periodic, condition-based activation.
2Use of energy by stationary object
If the controller is completely powered off in standby mode, then standby power consumption becomes zero, but the response time to activate the pump increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the sensor continuously monitor conditions without powering the controller. When the sensor detects water flow, it immediately triggers the secondary switch to activate the controller, so the system is ready to respond as soon as the triggering condition occurs, minimizing delay while maintaining zero standby consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The secondary switch acts as an intermediary between the sensor and the controller. It remains in a default off state to save power but can be rapidly activated by the sensor signal, serving as a low-power mediator that enables fast response without requiring the controller to remain continuously powered.
3Use of energy by stationary object
If a manual switch is used to power the controller, then standby power consumption is reduced, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically managing the controller's power state based on sensor input. The secondary switch is automatically activated when the sensor detects water flow, eliminating the need for manual user intervention. The system serves itself by autonomously transitioning between standby and operational states based on environmental conditions.
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
Achieves zero power consumption in standby mode without manual operation, ensuring the water pump remains operational for pressure buildup and reducing overall power usage.
Implementation Method 1
a step-down converter which transforms a high voltage from a voltage source to a low voltage
Implementation Method 2
a rectifier connected in front of the step-down converter
Implementation Method 3
the secondary switch is designed as a voltage-controlled electronic switch
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to a device for switching a main current circuit for supplying current to a current consumer, such as the motor of a water pump. In order to implement zero consumption in standby mode in said device, the control of a main switch (8) in the main current circuit (7) is supplied with current via a power supply (13), wherein the power supply is deactivated when the water pump is not required. In addition, there is a secondary switch in the form of a field effect transistor (16), which is controlled by a reed contact (18) in a flow monitor on the water line (2), which water line is supplied with water from the water pump. The voltage which the power supply (13) supplies to supply current to the control (10) serves simultaneously as a control signal (20) for a logical circuit (11) within the control (10), by means of which the main switch (8) is actuated.