GB2516770A

GB2516770A - Apparatus and method for reducing water wastage

Info

Publication number: GB2516770A
Application number: GB1413314.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Gerard Duffy; Eugene Murphy
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2013-07-26
Filing date: 2014-07-28
Publication date: 2015-02-04
Anticipated expiration: 2034-07-28
Also published as: GB2516770B; IE20140180A1; IE86944B1; IES86467B2; GB201413314D0; IES20130226A2

Abstract

An apparatus and method for reducing water wastage in a commercial or residential water supply system utilises a plurality of connection points (F) for attachment to a water supply; means (E) for shutting off water supply after a predetermined period or volume of water flow; and means (G) for monitoring water flow. The water flow monitor (G) comprises a sensor located within a flow pipe. The sensor can be a temperature probe, an impeller or a paddle switch. Also utilised is a timer (B), means for recording total water usage and means for displaying total water usage and instantaneous flow rate. A first reset means is operable to zero and can restart recording of total water usage. An alert system (C) comprising an SMS unit and/or an alarm is operable when one of a plurality of predetermined total water usage volumes is reached and on shutting off the water supply. A second reset means (D) is operable to recommence flow of water.

Description

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR REDUCING WATER WASTAGE

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for reducing water wastage, in particular to an apparatus and method for reducing water wastage due to leakage and/or burst pipes. The apparatus and method aie also for use in monitoring water usage.

Water is a valuable resource and is supplied to most homes, businesses, farms, schools and public areas. It is supplied through a network of pipes, pumps, fittings and flow control devices such as taps, valves and ball cocks. Unfortunately many of these flow control devices develop leaks, albeit from wear and tear or adverse weather conditions and as a result water is wasted, damage to property may occur and there is an added penalty of excess water charges placed upon the consumer. For example, a pinhole of 1 mm diameter in a water pipe typically causes loss of 360 litres of water over a 12 hour period. A running tap can use up to 10 litres of water per minute, 14,400 litres per day.

Furthermore, now that many local authohties have introduced water charges, it is useful, for example for a home owner, to be able to monitor the volume of water used in a given period with a view to limiting this.

Accordingly, there exists a need for a water saving apparatus and method that can be used in all areas as listed above to detect water leakage and minimise water wastage and reduce cost.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus and method which seek to alleviate the aforementioned problems.

Thus according to a first aspect, the invention provides an apparatus for monitoring water usage and reducing water wastage in a commercial or residential water supply system, the apparatus comprising: a plurality of connection points for attachment of the apparatus to a water supply; means for shutting off the water supply after a predetermined period or volume of water flow; means for monitoring water flow, wherein the water flow monitoring means comprises a sensor adapted for location within a flow pipe, the sensor selected from a temperature probe, an impeller or a paddle switch; a timer; means for recording total water usage; means for displaying total water usage and instantaneous flow rate; a first reset means operable to zero and restart recording of total water usage; an alert system comprising an SMS unit and/or an alarm, said alert system operable when one of a plurality of predetermined total water usage volumes is reached and on shutting off the water supply; and a second reset means operable to recommence flow of water.

The apparatus according to the invention is capable of reducing water wastage and minimising flooding in the event of a leak or burst pipe. In use, water flow through the apparatus occurs via taps, valves or leakage. The apparatus monitors water flow and shuts off water supply in the event that unusual flow is detected and when a predetermined total water usage volume is reached. This process is described in more detail herein below.

As a result of using the apparatus according to the invention, the demand on water supplies and reservoirs is reduced. Thus, the apparatus reduces water consumption costs to the water consumer and benefits the water supplier.

By "plurality of connection points" is meant more than one connection point, preferably two connection points.

Each connection point for attachment of the apparatus to water mains is a suitable fitting to allow existing pipes to be connected to the apparatus according to the invention. Each connection point is preferably made of metal such as copper, plastic or steel.

By "total water usage" is meant the total volume of water which has flowed past the sensor.

The impeller or paddle switch is operable to generate an electrical signal during the movement of the impeller or paddle switch due to water flow and thereby measure water flow.

The temperature probe is operable to detect changes in temperature due to water flow.

The means for shutting off water supply preferably comprises one or more water shut-off valves or lockdown valves, particularly preferably one or more solenoid-operated or motorised water shut-off valves. The default position for the valve is open. When the valve is in the default (open) position, water is allowed to flow freely through the apparatus. Upon actuation of the means for shutting off water supply, the valve is shut, stopping water flow.

The default open status of the valves, e.g. solenoid-operated water shut-off valves, means water supply is not interrupted in the event of an electrical power loss.

Preferably, the means for shutting off water supply comprises a solenoid or motorised valve operating on DC supply such as 24 volts to open and close the valve to water flow.

The means for monitoring water flow comprises a sensor which is preferably set to monitor a predetermined flow rate. The sensor preferably detects water movement from as low as 0.04 I/s up to any larger volume per second capable of travelling through the appropriate sized pipes, for example from approximately 0.025 I/s to approximately 0.40 I/s. This range is not considered to be limiting and any suitable range may be set by the user.

In a preferred embodiment, the sensor comprises a pivotally mounted paddle switch which moves from a first position to a second position when water flows past. Alternatively, the sensor comprises an impeller which moves from a first position to a second position when water flows past.

The sensor sends a signal to the timer when water begins to flow past the sensor.

The sensor and timer send a signal to the means for recording total water usage and to the means for displaying total water usage.

The sensor also sends a signal to the means for shutting off the water supply when water begins to flow past the sensor.

Specifically, when water flows past the sensor during use of the apparatus, the timer is activated and a countdown period of a predetermined amount begins. Preferably, the countdown period is in the range of from approximately 0 to 60 minutes, particularly preferably from 15 to 45 minutes, e.g. 30 minutes. The countdown period may be adjusted by the user to any required amount of time, including times outside the ranges specified above. The timer is preferably set for the maximum time that water flow is required. The maximum time that water flow is required can vaiy depending on application and is therefore adjustable by the user. The countdown period of the timer should be set to accommodate the expected usual water usage of the system.

Preferably, the timer campuses a digital display and touch screen so that the user can easily view and adjust the countdown period.

When a building is vacant or not in need of water, for example when the occupants of a house are on holiday, the countdown period is preferably in the range of from approximately 0 to 15 minutes, especially 0 minutes, i.e. set to zero so that no water flow occurs until the user resets the timer. In other words, when the timer is set to zero this induces a lockdown situation where the means for shutting off water allow no water to flow until the timer is returned to the owner's preferred setting. This avoids wastage and flooding.

In other words, when no water is required to flow, the apparatus is preferably manually adjusted to shut off the water supply by turning the timer to zero. The owner/operator can then vacate the premises in peace knowing that in the event of a mishap water wastage or flooding will be minimised in their absence.

Due to the fact that variations in water pressures and volumes may occur, the apparatus according to the invention preferably further compuises a potentiometer to allow for more accurate settings of the means for monitoring water flow depending upon water pressures and volumes.

As noted above, the apparatus according to the invention monitors the flow of water as the water passes through the apparatus. When water flows past the means for monitoring water flow, the timer is activated and the predetermined countdown period begins. If flow ceases before the timer reaches zero, i.e. before the end of the countdown period, the timer resets to a default position and the predetermined countdown period only begins again when more water flows past the means for monitoring water flow. If flow does not cease before the timer reaches zero, i.e. if unusual flow occurs, the means for shutting off water supply are actuated and the water supply is shut off.

When the means for shutting off water supply are actuated, the alert system is activated alerting the owner/operator to the fact that the apparatus has detected unusual water flow.

The cause of excess water flow can then be identified and the appropriate action taken, for example, tap, pipe, valve and/or ball cock repair. Once the necessary action has been taken, the first reset means, e.g. a reset button, can be actuated, resetting the timer to the default position.

Additionally, when water flows past the means for monitoring water flow, the means for determining total water usage and the means for recording total water usage are activated and both the total water usage and instantaneous flow rate are displayed, the flow rate being preferably displayed in litres/minute. Once a predetermined volume of total water usage has been reached, the alert system is activated alerting the owner/operator to the fact that they have used that amount of water. Once a further predetermined volume of total water usage has been reached, the alert system is activated alerting the owner/operator to the fact that they have used that amount of water and the means for shutting off water supply are actuated and the water supply is shut off. If the user does not wish the water supply to be shutoff, the second reset means, e.g. a reset button, can be actuated, resetting the total water usage value to zero.

Preferably, the alert system alternatively or additionally comprises an alarm, particularly preferably a visual alarm, such as a coloured and/or flashing light. Alternatively, or additionally, the alert system preferably comprises an audible alarm, such as a buzzer or siren.

In a preferred embodiment, the alarm and/or reset means are fitted remotely from the remaining components of the apparatus, for example, in a room frequently used, such as a kitchen.

In a preferred embodiment, the alert system comprises a text message SMS unit (SIM card) for sending a message to a user's mobile phone, e.g. to a building manager's or home owner's mobile phone. In this embodiment, the alert system sends a text message when a predetermined total water usage volume is reached and on shutting off the water supply.

The apparatus is also preferably adapted to send text messages to a user at a predetermined time, e.g. at 7 pm each day, based on the volume of water that has passed the sensor.

The apparatus is preferably also adapted to receive text messages from an external source.

The received text messages in turn can be used to reset the apparatus, e.g. to turn the water supplyofforon.

In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus monitors water flow over a selected period of time, e.g. a day, a week or a month, and automatically resets the total water usage volume to zero at the end of this period of time. The apparatus sends a warning message once a certain predetermined threshold amount of water is reached, e.g. 4,000 litres. Preferably, the apparatus sends a further warning message once a higher predetermined threshold amount of water is reached, e.g. 10,000 litres. If no action is taken after the further warning message has been sent, the apparatus is preferably adapted to shut off the water supply.

The predetermined volume of total water usage can be set by the user, preferably remotely, e.g. via SMS text message to the apparatus.

The timer is preferably a timer with a flashing light and fingertip control. The fingertip control is preferably a rotating dial on the front face of the timer. The fingertip control allows for easy setting of the timer by a user. The flashing light confirms when the unit is in countdown mode.

The second reset means is a zeroing facility which enables the determination of total water usage to be restarted.

In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a battery pack as back up in the event of power failure.

In a preferred embodiment, the means for determining the volume of total water usage, the means for recording total water usage and the means for displaying total water usage are provided by a programmable logic computer (PLC), preferably a solar powered 24 Volt PLC, particularly preferably with the screen of the PLC visible to the user.

The means for shutting off water supply and means for monitoring water flow are installed in a water line supplying water to a building such as a residence, and are typically disposed between a main, manually operated valve and a first point of water demand of the water plumbing system in the building.

Preferably, the apparatus further comprises further means for shutting off water supply, e.g. a second water shut off valve, preferably wherein the further means for shutting off water supply is located on an overload tank.

The means for shutting off water supply is preferably interposed a water conduit from a water main to the living quarters portion of a residential building, such that activation of the means for shutting off water supply operates to prevent flow of water from the water main to the living quarters. In this manner, damage to the living quarters from failure of water pipes running through the living quarters is prevented during times that the means for shutting off water supply is activated.

The apparatus is easily adjusted to suit individual needs and is operator friendly. The apparatus can be manually adjusted to shut off water supplies to prevent wastage or flooding when homes, schools, farmyards, businesses or other premises are vacant or not in need of water.

Preferably, the apparatus is provided in kit form for self-assembly.

It will be appreciated that while copious references are made herein to "water," the apparatus according to the invention is applicable to any type of liquid or fluid.

According to a further aspect, the invention provides a method for monitoring water usage and reducing water wastage in a commercial or residential water supply system, comprising monitoring water flow using the apparatus as described herein.

In yet a further aspect, the method for monitoring water usage and reducing water wastage in a commercial or residential water supply system preferably comprises the following steps: (i) monitoring water flow past a sensor located within a pipe in the system; (H) using a timer to determine water flow rate and to time a countdown period; (iii) recording total water usage; (iv) shutting off water supply after the countdown period ora predetermined volume of water flow; (v) alerting a user when one of a plurality of predetermined total water usage volumes are reached and on shutting off the water supply; (vi) optionally resetting recording of total water usage; and (vU) optionally resetting the apparatus to recommence flow of water.

The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings which show one embodiment of the apparatus in accordance with the invention in which:-Figure 1 shows a front view of a preferred apparatus for monitoring water usage and reducing water wastage according to the invention; Figure 2 shows a plan view of the apparatus of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a left hand side view of the apparatus of Figure 1; and Figure 4 shows further components of the apparatus of Figure 1.

Referring to the drawings and initially to Figures 1 and 2, there is shown a preferred apparatus 100 for monitoring water usage and reducing water wastage comprising enclosure (A) fitted with timer (B), alarm (C), reset button (D), two lockdown valves (E), water flow monitoring sensor (G) and two water connection points (F).

Apparatus 100 also comprises a solar powered 24 Volt programmable logic computer (PLC) (not shown), with the screen of the PLC visible to the user through the enclosure (A). The PLC determines, records and displays the volume of total water usage. The PLC has a rest button to restart the recording of the total water usage from zero.

Apparatus 100 also comprises a text message SMS unit (not shown) for sending a message to and receiving a message from a user's mobile phone, e.g. a building manager's or home owner's mobile phone. The SMS unit sends a text message when a predetermined total water usage volume is reached and on shutting off the water supply.

Apparatus 100 can detect water movement within a pipe and allow the water to flow for the set period of time, e.g. 15 minutes, or to a predetermined total water usage volume, e.g. 10,000 litres, thereafter apparatus 100 will shut off the water supply valves (lockdown valves (F)) and minimise wastage. If water flow occurs from leakage or burst pipes lockdown valves (E) will automatically operate after the set time has elapsed, therefore minimising damage to the surrounding areas, even when no one is present. When timer (B) is set to zero this induces a lockdown situation where lockdown valves (E) close and no water is allowed flow until timer (B) is returned to the owner's preferred setting. This minimises wastage and flooding.

Enclosure (A) is a control box of approximately 200 mm in length and 200 mm in width.

Enclosure (A) is connected to water flow monitoring sensor (G) and lockdown valves (E) by means of electric cable thus allowing for remote mounting of the water flow monitoring sensor (G) and the lockdown valves (E) to suit the required application.

Enclosure (A) is of steel or plastic construction and is compliant with IPGG rating. This allows the unit to be fitted in an environment where dust or water may be present such as garages, farm sheds or pump houses.

Timer (B) is a timer with a flashing light and a rotating dial on the front face of the timer. The fingertip control rotating dial allows for easy setting of the timer by a user. The flashing light confirms when the unit is in countdown mode. Timer (B) provides for easy setting of the unit, depending how long the owner requires a continuous flow of water.

Alarm (C) is an alert system and can be of audible or visual type, e.g. an audible buzzer or a light. As shown in the embodiment of Figure 1, alarm (C) is fitted on enclosure (A).

Alternatively, if required, alarm (C) may be fitted remotely.

Reset button (D) is a push button. When an operator presses reset button (D) after the water supply has been shut off by lockdown valves (E), apparatus 100 returns to the standby position. As shown in the embodiment of Figure 1, reset button (0) is fitted on enclosure (A).

Alternatively, if required, reset button (D) may be fitted remotely and/or activated by text message to the apparatus.

Lockdown Valves (E) of brass or non-ferrite construction are fitted directly to the mains water supply and sub-supplies where appropriate. Lockdown Valves (E) are connected to enclosure (A) by means of suitable electric cable. The default open status of the lockdown Valves (E) means water supply is not interrupted in the event of an electrical power loss.

Water connection points (F) are suitable fittings to allow existing pipes be connected to apparatus 100. Water connection points (F) are preferably made of copper, plastic or steel construction.

Water flow monitoring sensor (C) detects water movement per second from volumes as low as 0.04 I to any larger volume capable of travelling through the appropriate sized pipes.

Water flow monitoring sensor (G) is equipped with its own potentiometer to allow for accurate settings depending upon water pressures and volumes as variations may occur from place to place. Water flow monitoring sensor (G) can be an impeller device, a paddle switch or a temperature probe.

From Figures 2 and 3, it can be seen that several lockdown valves (F) can be fitted and controlled by apparatus 100, depending on the customer's needs. Multiple apparatuses are thus not usually required.

Figure 4 illustrates the AC power supply (H), AC relay (J), DC power supply (K) and DC relay (L)within enclosure (A) of apparatus 100.

Power Supply (H) is a standard 220 volt AC power supply fed through a 6 amp miniature circuit breaker that offers protection in the event of a short circuit or power surge.

AC relay (J) is a 220 Volt, 10 amp hold on' relay which energises when timer (B) provides a signal that a lockdown situation is required. AC Relay (J), when energised, provides voltage to lockdown Valves (E) and the lockdown function is achieved.

DC power supply (K) converts the power supply from AC to DC to operate water flow monitoring sensor (G). DC relay (L) is a 24 volt, 10 amp unit which is energised when water flow monitoring sensor (G) sends a signal to say that water flow has commenced. DC relay (L), when energised, supplies power to timer (B), which then begins the countdown sequence.

In a further embodiment not shown in the drawings, the relays and timer units are replaced with miniature circuit boards, the apparatus has a touch screen for operator-friendly control and a secure digital (SD) card for data recording, the apparatus having a reset feature operable by SMS. The water throughput, i.e. flow past the sensor, is measured by this apparatus in litres/minute and alerts, e.g. alarms, and outputs are activated by the throughput values.

It will of course be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific details as herein described, which are given by way of example only, and that various alterations and modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS: 1. An apparatus for monitoring water usage and reducing water wastage in a commercial or residential water supply system, the apparatus comprising: a plurality of connection points for attachment of the apparatus to a water supply; means for shutting off the water supply after a predetermined period or volume of water flow; means for monitoling water flow, wherein the water flow monitoring means comprises a sensor adapted for location within a flow pipe, the sensor selected from a temperature probe, an impeller or a paddle switch; a timer; means for recording total water usage; means for displaying total water usage and instantaneous flow rate; a first reset means operable to zero and restart recording of total water usage; an alert system comprising an SMS unit and/or an alarm, said alert system operable when one of a plurality of predetermined total water usage volumes is reached and on shutting off the water supply; and a second reset means operable to recommence flow of water.
2. An apparatus for reducing water wastage as claimed in claim 1, wherein the means for shutting off water supply comprises one or more water shut-off valves, preferably one or more solenoid-operated or motorised water shut-off valves.
3. An apparatus for reducing water wastage as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the means for monitoring water flow comprises a pivotally mounted paddle switch.
4. An apparatus for reducing water wastage as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the timer comprises a digital display and touch screen.
5. An apparatus for reducing water wastage as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus further comprises a potentiometer to allow for more accurate settings of the means for monitoring water flow depending upon water pressures and volumes.
6. An apparatus for reducing water wastage as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the alert system comprises a visual alarm and/or an audible alarm.
7. An apparatus for reducing water wastage as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the alarm and/or reset means are fitted remotely from the remaining components of the apparatus.
8. An apparatus for reducing water wastage as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus further comprises a battery pack as back up in the event of power failure.
9. An apparatus for reducing water wastage as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus further comprises a programmable logic computer (PLC), preferably a solar powered PLC.
10. An apparatus for reducing water wastage as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus further comprises additional means for shutting off water supply.
11. An apparatus for reducing water wastage as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus is provided in kit form for self-assembly.
12. A method for monitoring water usage and reducing water wastage in a commercial or residential water supply system, said method comprising monitoring water flow using the apparatus as defined in any one of claims 1 to 12.
13. A method for monitoring water usage and reducing water wastage in a commercial or residential water supply system, the method comprising the following steps: (i) monitoring water flow past a sensor located within a pipe in the system; (H) using a timer to determine water flow rate and to time a countdown period; (Hi) recording total water usage; (iv) shutting off water supply after the countdown period ora predetermined volume of water flow; (v) alerting a user when one of a plurality of predetermined total water usage volumes are reached and on shutting off the water supply; (vi) optionally resetting recording of total water usage; and (vii) optionally resetting the apparatus to recommence flow of water.
14. An apparatus for monitoring water usage and reducing water wastage in a commercial or residential water supply system substantially as herein described with reference to and as shown in the accompanying drawings.
15. A method for monitoring water usage and reducing water wastage in a commercial or residential water supply system using the apparatus substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.