KR102599535B1 - Piping system and method for detecting leaks in the piping joint - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is a piping system and a water leak detection method for piping joints that can receive information about water leaks from underground pipes even on the ground through wireless communication.
The piping system according to the present invention is installed at the connection joint of an underground pipe, has a water leak detection sensor unit that detects water leakage in the pipe and generates water leak information in the pipe, and is connected to the water leak detection sensor unit. It is installed in and includes a wireless communication tag unit that receives the water leak information and a wireless communication reader that is capable of wireless communication with the wireless communication tag unit on the ground and receives the water leak information.

Description

PIPING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING LEAKS IN THE PIPING JOINT}

The present invention relates to a method for detecting water leaks in piping systems and piping joints, and more specifically, to a method for detecting water leaks in piping systems and piping joints that can detect water leaks in pipes on the ground without exposing underground pipes.

In general, water pipes are hundreds of kilometers long and supply water under strong water pressure, so even a small leak can quickly expand and lead to damage to the water supply, and when water pipes are damaged, it is difficult to quickly repair and reinforce them in the early stages. Due to this problem, the inconvenience of water supply from water pipes being interrupted frequently occurs.

In addition, the amount of water leakage over the past 10 years was 7.5 billion ㎥, and the loss in fiscal water prices alone reached 4.6 trillion won, showing how serious the damage was. When damage from water leakage occurs, the soil is washed away due to strong water pressure within the pipe, causing sinkholes and ground erosion. It is a serious situation that can lead to hazards and even casualties.

Therefore, the chronic problem of water leakage and the need for a solution have emerged, and research on this is being actively conducted.

In underground pipes, water leaks most often occur at the connection points between pipes, that is, at the connection joints. Since underground pipes are installed underground, it is difficult to check from the ground when a water leak occurs at the connection joints.

Currently, entities that manage underground pipes, such as local governments, operate water leak detection departments and use ultrasonic water leak detectors to detect water leaks in underground pipes. This is very poor.

In addition, there are methods to detect water leaks in underground pipes, such as a sensor method using electricity, a method of directly photographing the inside of the pipe with a camera, and a method using water pressure differences, but it is difficult to pinpoint the exact location of the water leak and respond quickly. .

Republic of Korea Patent Publication No. 10-2017-0119257 (published on October 26, 2017)

The purpose of the present invention to solve the above-described problems is to provide a piping system and a water leak detection method for piping joints that can receive information on water leaks from underground pipes even on the ground through wireless communication.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for detecting water leaks in piping systems and piping joints when a water leak detection sensor is operated using power supplied from a reader.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for detecting water leaks in piping systems and piping joints that does not require a separate battery for operation of the water leak detection sensor as the water leak detection sensor operates without power during wireless communication with a reader. .

Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for detecting water leaks in a piping system and piping joints that includes a wireless communication tag that can be maintained horizontally in the ground.

In order to achieve the above-described object, the piping system according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed at a connection joint of an underground pipe, and includes a water leak detection device that detects water leakage in the pipe and generates water leak information in the pipe. A sensor unit, a wireless communication tag unit installed in the ground to be connected to the water leak detection sensor unit, and a wireless communication tag unit that receives the water leak information, and a wireless communication reader that is capable of wireless communication with the wireless communication tag unit on the ground and receives the water leak information. The wireless communication tag unit includes an antenna unit for transmitting and receiving a wireless communication signal with the wireless communication reader and a memory unit for storing the water leak information received from the water leak detection sensor unit, and an antenna housing installed therein. It includes a spaced frame spaced apart from the pipe and the connection joint at a predetermined distance, wherein the antenna unit is installed horizontally with the ground within the antenna housing, and the connection joint includes a rubber ring for preventing water leakage from the pipe, and a rubber ring attached to the rubber ring. It includes a pressurizing ring that transmits pressurizing force, a water seal that watertightens the inlet space where liquid flows into the pipe when the pipe leaks, a pressurizing bolt that pressurizes the water seal, and a washer that transmits pressurizing force to the water seal, and the pressurizing The ring includes a water leak detection hole connected to the inflow space through a through hole, and the water leak detection sensor unit is installed in the water leak detection hole and detects temperature, humidity, pressure, or vibration within the inlet space through the through hole. The pressure ring generates the water leak information, and the pressure ring includes a tag coupling hole that is coupled to the wireless communication tag unit to form a sealed internal space, and the tag coupling hole, the water leak detection hole, and the inlet space are connected to each other. However, the water leak detection sensor unit is installed in the water leak detection hole to block the connection between the tag coupling hole and the inflow space.

One end of the water leak detection sensor installed in the water leak detection hole protrudes inside the tag coupling hole, and one end of the water leak detection sensor unit has a diameter larger than the diameter of the through hole and the water leak detection hole, and the water leak detection sensor unit has a larger diameter than the diameter of the through hole and the water leak detection hole. First, it is located in the tag coupling hole so as to come into close contact with the through hole, thereby blocking the connection between the through hole and the tag coupling hole.

The wireless communication tag unit includes a tag housing including the antenna housing and the spacing frame therein, and the tag housing is coupled to one side of the pressure ring where the tag coupling hole is formed, so that one side of the tag coupling hole is open. is sealed.

The tag housing includes a plurality of fastening bolts coupled around one side of the pressure ring where the tag coupling hole is formed, and a plurality of fastening parts including fastening holes threaded to be screwed with the fastening bolts.

The water leak detection sensor unit starts operation by a wireless communication signal between the wireless communication reader and the wireless communication tag unit, detects water leakage in the pipe, and transmits water leakage information in the pipe to the wireless communication tag unit.

The wireless communication reader transmits power to the wireless communication tag unit during wireless communication between the wireless communication reader and the wireless communication tag, and the wireless communication tag unit operates the water leak detection sensor unit through the received power.

In order to achieve the above-described object, the method for detecting water leakage in a piping system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a water leak detection sensor installed in a connection joint of an underground pipe detecting water leakage in the pipe and generating water leakage information in the pipe. A step of transmitting, by the water leak detection sensor unit, the water leak information to a wireless communication tag unit installed in the ground so as to be connected to the water leak detection sensor unit, and a wireless communication reader capable of wireless communication with the wireless communication tag unit wirelessly communicates on the ground. Receiving the water leak information by wirelessly connecting to a tag unit, wherein the wireless communication tag unit stores the water leak information received from the antenna unit for transmitting and receiving a wireless communication signal with the wireless communication reader and the water leak detection sensor unit. A memory unit includes an antenna housing installed therein and a spaced frame that separates the antenna housing from the pipe and the connection joint by a predetermined distance, the antenna unit is installed horizontally with the ground within the antenna housing, and the connection joint is, A rubber ring that prevents leakage of the pipe, a pressure ring that transmits pressure to the rubber ring, a water seal that water-seals the inlet space where liquid in the pipe flows when the pipe leaks, a pressure bolt that pressurizes the water seal, and It includes a washer that transmits pressing force to the water seal, and the pressure ring includes a water leak detection hole connected to the inlet space through a through hole, and the water leak detection sensor unit is installed in the water leak detection hole and detects water through the through hole. The water leakage information is generated by detecting temperature, humidity, pressure, or vibration within the inlet space, and the pressure ring includes a tag coupling hole that is coupled to the wireless communication tag portion to form a sealed internal space, and the tag The coupling hole, the water leak detection hole, and the inflow space are connected to each other, and the water leak detection sensor unit is installed in the water leak detection hole to block the connection between the tag coupling hole and the inflow space.

Before the step of generating the water leak information, when the wireless communication reader is wirelessly connected to the wireless communication tag unit, the step of operating the water leak detection sensor unit by a wireless communication signal from the wireless communication reader.

According to the present inventor's method for detecting water leaks in piping systems and piping joints, water leakage information in underground pipes can be received even on the ground through wireless communication.

According to the present invention's water leak detection method for a piping system and piping joint, the water leak detection sensor operates only during wireless communication with a reader, thereby minimizing the power consumption of the water leak detection sensor.

According to the present invention's method for detecting water leaks in piping systems and piping joints, a water leak detection sensor can be operated using power supplied from a reader.

According to the present inventor's method for detecting water leaks in piping systems and piping joints, wireless communication sensitivity can be improved by including a wireless communication tag that can be maintained horizontally in the ground.

Figure 1 is a diagram showing a connection joint of an underground pipe in which a water leak detection sensor unit and a wireless communication tag unit are installed according to the present invention.
Figure 2 is a block diagram briefly showing each configuration of the piping system according to the present invention.
Figure 3 is a block diagram briefly illustrating the operation process of each component of the piping system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 is an enlarged view of the main part of Figure 1.
Figure 5 is a diagram showing the coupling relationship between the connection joint, the water leak detection sensor unit, and the wireless communication tag unit.
Figure 6 is a flowchart of a method for detecting water leakage in a pipe joint according to the present invention.

Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail through illustrative drawings. When adding reference signs to components in each drawing, it should be noted that the same components are given the same reference numerals as much as possible even if they are shown in different drawings.

Also, in describing embodiments of the present invention, if detailed descriptions of related known configurations or functions are judged to impede understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, the detailed descriptions will be omitted.

Additionally, when describing the components of an embodiment of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used. These terms are only used to distinguish the component from other components, and the nature, sequence, or order of the component is not limited by the term.

In this specification, singular forms also include plural forms unless specifically stated in the phrase. As used in the specification, “comprises” and/or “including” does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components in addition to the mentioned components.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings.

Figure 1 is a diagram showing the connection joint 1 of the underground pipes 10 and 20 on which the water leak detection sensor unit 100 according to the present invention is installed, and Figure 2 briefly shows each configuration of the piping system according to the present invention. It is a block diagram.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the piping system according to the present invention includes a water leak detection sensor unit 100 that detects water leaks in the pipes 10 and 20, and a wireless communication tag unit that stores water leak detection information. It includes (200) and its wireless communication tag unit 200 and a wireless communication reader 300 that receives water leak detection information through wireless communication.

As shown in FIG. 1, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 is installed at the connection joint 1 of the underground pipes 10 and 20.

The wireless communication tag unit 200 is installed underground to be electrically connected to the water leak detection sensor unit 100. The wireless communication tag unit 200, and more specifically, the antenna unit 210 of the wireless communication tag unit 200, which will be described later, is positioned at a predetermined distance away from the pipes 10 and 20 and the connection joint 1 of the pipe. is installed in For example, the antenna unit 210 is installed at a location spaced apart from the pipes 10 and 20 and the pipe connection joint 1 by at least 10 cm. The antenna unit 210 is installed at a position separated from the pipes 10, 20 and the pipe connection joint 1 by at least 10 cm, so that it is connected to the metal pipes 10, 20 and the pipe connection joint 1. This prevents interference with wireless communications.

The wireless communication reader 300 is carried by a worker on the ground and communicates wirelessly with the wireless communication tag unit 200 to receive information on water leaks in the pipes 10 and 20 generated by the water leak detection sensor unit 100.

As an embodiment, the connection joint 1 of the pipes 10 and 20 according to the present invention has an inflow space (S, Figures 4 and 5) into which liquid such as water flowing in the pipe flows when the pipes 10 and 20 leak. reference) is formed separately. At this time, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 detects water leaks in the pipes 10 and 20 by measuring the temperature, humidity, pressure, and/or vibration of the inflow space (S), and includes the measurement information and water leak detection information. Leakage information can be generated. A detailed description of the connection joint 1 and the inlet space S of the pipes 10 and 20 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

The water leak detection sensor unit 100 may detect water leaks in the pipes 10 and 20 by including a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, and/or a vibration sensor. The water leak detection sensor unit 100 measures the pipes 10 and 20 buried underground, more specifically, the temperature and humidity of the above-mentioned inlet space S, the pressure of the liquid flowing inside the inlet space S, and the liquid. Water leakage information is generated by measuring vibration signals generated by the flow. The water leak detection sensor unit 100 transmits the generated water leak information to the wireless communication tag unit 200.

In the water leak detection sensor unit 100, as an example, normal range areas for each temperature, humidity, pressure, and/or vibration may be preset. The water leak detection sensor unit 100 can detect water leaks in the pipes 10 and 20 by comparing whether the measured temperature, humidity, pressure, and/or vibration are within a preset normal range. However, it is not limited to this, and water leaks in the pipes 10 and 20 may be detected through comparison with water leak information generated through other nearby water leak detection sensor units 100.

When the water leak detection sensor unit 100 includes a temperature sensor, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 can measure the temperature of the inlet space (S). When a water leak occurs in the pipes (10, 20), the temperature of the inflow space (S) becomes lower than the preset temperature range, so the water leak detection sensor unit 100 can detect the water leak in the pipes (10, 20).

When the water leak detection sensor unit 100 includes a humidity sensor, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 can measure the humidity of the inlet space (S). When a water leak occurs in the pipes (10, 20), the humidity of the inflow space (S) becomes higher than the preset humidity range, so the water leak detection sensor unit 100 can detect the water leak in the pipes (10, 20).

The water leak detection sensor unit 100 includes both a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor, and can detect water leaks in the pipes 10 and 20 by considering the measured temperature and humidity together. If water leakage is detected only through a temperature sensor, if the temperature around the pipes (10, 20) is lowered for reasons other than water leakage, it may be mistakenly judged to be a water leak in the pipes (10, 20), so measurements are taken to compensate for this. By comparing temperature and humidity together, if there is no change in humidity even if the temperature drops, it can be confirmed that no water leak has occurred, enabling more accurate water leak detection. This can be equally applied to pressure sensors and vibration sensors.

When the water leak detection sensor unit 100 includes a pressure sensor, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 can measure the pressure inside the inlet space (S). When a water leak occurs in the pipes (10, 20) and liquid flows into the inlet space (S), the water leak detection sensor unit (100) determines whether there is a water leak through the difference between the pressure generated by the liquid and the preset pressure range. can be detected.

The pressure sensor included in the water leak detection sensor unit 100 may include a pressure switch that is opened and closed by the pressure inside the inlet space (S). The pressure switch detects a rise or fall in pressure within the inflow space (S). The pressure switch controls the operation of the water leak detection sensor unit 100 by opening and closing the electric circuit within the water leak detection sensor unit 100 when the pressure within the inlet space S reaches a predetermined value.

When the water leak detection sensor unit 100 includes a vibration sensor, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 can measure vibration generated by liquid flowing inside the inlet space (S). The water leak detection sensor unit 100 can detect water leakage if the measured vibration is different from the preset vibration range.

The wireless communication tag unit 200 is installed underground to be electrically connected to the water leak detection sensor unit 100. As described above, the antenna unit 210 of the wireless communication tag unit 200 is installed at a position spaced apart from the pipes 10 and 20 and the pipe connection joint 1 by a predetermined distance.

The wireless communication tag unit 200 includes an antenna unit 210 that transmits and receives wireless communication signals with the ground wireless communication reader 300, and a memory unit 220 that stores water leak information received from the water leak detection sensor unit 100. Includes.

The wireless communication tag unit 200 is capable of wireless communication with the wireless communication reader 300 through the antenna unit 210 and can transmit water leakage information stored in the memory unit 220 to the wireless communication reader 300.

The wireless communication tag unit 200 according to the present invention includes a tag housing 201 with a watertight structure. The wireless communication tag unit 200 may be installed within the tag housing 201. The antenna unit 210, memory unit 220, electronic chip, etc. of the wireless communication tag unit 200 may be installed inside the tag housing 201. The tag housing 201 may be installed on one side (the upper side as shown in FIG. 1) of the first pipe 10, which will be described later. The tag housing 201 may be installed on one side of the connection joint 1, specifically on one side of the pressure ring 60, which will be described in detail later. The tag housing 201 is installed on one side of the first pipe 10 and the pressure ring 60, and watertightens the tag coupling hole 65 (see FIG. 4) formed in the pressure ring 60. The tag coupling hole 65, etc. will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

The antenna unit 210 may be installed inside the tag housing 201 so as to remain level with the ground while the wireless communication tag unit 200 is buried in the ground. The reason the antenna unit 210 is maintained horizontal to the ground is to correspond to the polarity of the antenna (not shown) in the wireless communication reader 300. The antenna unit 210 is maintained horizontally with the ground in the ground to ensure smooth wireless communication with the wireless communication reader 300. The antenna unit 210 is maintained horizontally with the ground in the ground to facilitate wireless communication with the wireless communication reader 300, and is installed at a predetermined distance from the pipes 10 and 20 and the connection joint 1.

When the wireless communication tag unit 200 includes an RFID tag, the RFID antenna of the RFID tag (i.e., the antenna unit 210) receives power directly through a wireless communication signal received from the wireless communication reader 300. When a wireless communication signal from the wireless communication reader 300 is transmitted to the antenna unit 210, the antenna unit 210 generates an RF field and then operates by transmitting the wireless communication signal to an electronic chip, etc. At this time, the efficiency of the antenna unit 210 varies depending on the direction of wave generation, and the higher the efficiency, the stronger the antenna unit 210 has an RF field that reaches further.

The antenna unit 210 may be installed inside the antenna housing 211 (see FIGS. 4 and 5). The antenna housing 211 has a watertight structure like the tag housing 201. An antenna unit 210 and a memory unit 220 are installed inside the antenna housing 211.

The antenna unit 210 is installed in the antenna housing 211 to maintain a horizontal angle with the ground.

The tag housing 201 further includes a spacing frame 230 for separating the antenna housing 211 on which the antenna unit 210 is installed from the pipes 10 and 20 and the connection joint 1 by a predetermined distance. The spacing frame 230 has any configuration as long as it can separate the antenna housing 211 and the antenna unit 210 installed in the antenna housing 211 from the pipes 10 and 20 and the pipe connection joint 1 by at least 10 cm. You may include more. For example, the spacing frame 230 includes an internal space, and the inner space of the spacing frame 230 may further include known configurations for the operation of the electronic chip and wireless communication tag unit 200 described above. Known components included in the spacing frame 230 may be electrically connected to each component of the wireless communication tag unit 200 described above.

As described above, the wireless communication reader 300 is carried by a worker on the ground. A worker on the ground receives radio waves generated from the wireless communication tag unit 200 through the wireless communication reader 300 on the upper side of the wireless communication tag unit 200 buried in the ground. That is, the wireless communication reader 300 wirelessly communicates with the wireless communication tag unit 200 and receives water leak information of the pipes 10 and 20 generated by the water leak detection sensor unit 100.

The wireless communication tag unit 200 may further include an electronic chip (IC chip, not shown) in addition to the antenna unit 210 and the memory unit 220, and the memory unit 220 may be included within the electronic chip. .

The wireless communication tag unit 200 may operate in an energy harvesting method. The wireless communication tag unit 200 may operate, in particular, using radio waves (RF) received from the wireless communication reader 300. Accordingly, the wireless communication tag unit 200 may have a passive structure that can be operated without a battery or similar power supply means. The wireless communication tag unit 200 may transmit water leakage information stored in the memory unit 220 to the wireless communication reader 300 based on the power received from the wireless communication reader 300.

The wireless communication tag unit 200 may supply power received from the wireless communication reader 300 through energy harvesting to the water leak detection sensor unit 100. The water leak detection sensor unit 100 operates using power received from the wireless communication tag unit 200 to detect water leaks in the inlet space (S).

The antenna unit 210 is electrically connected to the electronic chip. The antenna unit 210 is made of copper, chrome, or a similar material and may be formed in a certain pattern.

The electronic chip may further include a recognition unit (not shown). When the antenna unit 210 receives a wireless communication signal together with unique information such as a password from the wireless communication reader 300, the wireless communication tag unit 200 verifies the unique information of the wireless communication reader 300 through the recognition unit. When the recognition unit confirms the unique information of the wireless communication reader 300, the wireless communication tag unit 200 transmits the water leakage information stored in the memory unit 220 to the wireless communication reader 300 through the antenna unit 210.

When the wireless communication tag unit 200 receives the wireless communication signal transmitted by the wireless communication reader 300 (hereinafter referred to as 'initial communication'), the wireless communication tag unit 200 transmits the water leakage information stored in the memory unit 220 to the antenna unit 210. ) is transmitted to the wireless communication reader 300 in the form of a wireless communication signal.

When the wireless communication tag unit 200 transmits water leak information to the wireless communication reader 300, it can also transmit information about the connection joint 1. Information about the connection joint 1 includes information such as burial date, burial organization, burial depth, burial location, burial direction, material, diameter, production information, etc. of the pipes 10 and 20 and the connection joint 1. The information on the connection joint (1) allows accurate maintenance by knowing in advance the main information on the pipe (10, 20) and the connection joint (1) when performing future maintenance of the pipe (10, 20) and the connection joint (1). and construction is possible, while also providing ease of maintenance and construction.

The wireless communication tag unit 200 may be installed in the tag housing 201 made of acrylic, polyester, or similar materials. The tag housing 201 can seal the interior to protect the wireless communication tag unit 200 from moisture, etc. Alternatively, depending on usage conditions, the tag housing 201 may be molded with metal or non-metallic components.

The wireless communication tag unit 200 may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, but is not limited to this, and a Bluetooth tag or ZigBee tag capable of short-distance wireless communication may also be applied.

The wireless communication reader 300 may have a structure that allows workers to carry it. The worker carries the wireless communication reader 300 and then moves to the location where the wireless communication tag unit 200 is buried. As described above, the wireless communication reader 300 transmits unique information toward the antenna unit 210 of the wireless communication tag unit 200. The wireless communication tag unit 200 confirms the unique information of the wireless communication reader 300 and then transmits the water leakage information stored in the memory unit 220 to the wireless communication reader 300. The wireless communication reader 300 displays the received water leakage information so that the worker can check it. To this end, the wireless communication reader 300 may further include a known display device for displaying leakage information. The wireless communication reader 300 is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and for example, any wireless communication reader 300 capable of wireless communication using the wireless communication tag unit 200 and a magnetic field or radio waves can be applied.

Figure 3 is a block diagram briefly illustrating the operation process of each component of the piping system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 3, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 may be initiated by a wireless communication signal between the wireless communication reader 300 and the wireless communication tag unit 200. The water leak detection sensor unit 100 does not always measure the temperature, humidity, pressure, and/or vibration of the inflow space (S), but the initial communication between the wireless communication reader 300 and the wireless communication tag unit 200 is performed. Only then can water leakage information be generated by measuring the temperature, humidity, pressure and/or vibration of the inflow space (S). In addition, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 transmits the water leak information generated only when the first communication is made to the wireless communication tag unit 200, and the wireless communication tag unit 200 stores the received water leak information in the memory unit 220. The water leak information stored in the memory unit 220 can be transmitted to the wireless communication reader 300 through the antenna unit 210.

That is, in the piping system according to the present invention, as shown in FIG. 3, when the antenna unit 210 receives the first communication from the wireless communication reader 300 (S1), the water leak detection sensor unit ( 100) starts to operate and generates water leak information (S2), the memory unit 220 of the wireless communication tag unit 200 receives the water leak information generated by the water leak detection sensor unit 100 (S3), and the antenna Unit 210 receives water leak information stored in the memory unit 220 (S4) and transmits the received water leak information to the wireless communication reader 300 (S5).

Therefore, in the piping system according to the present invention, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 operates only during wireless communication with the wireless communication reader 300, thereby minimizing the power consumption of the water leak detection sensor.

In addition, when the water leak detection sensor unit 100 operates only when the first communication between the wireless communication reader 300 and the wireless communication tag unit 200 is made, the wireless communication tag unit 200 stores the received water leak information in the memory unit ( By transmitting data directly to the wireless communication reader 300 rather than storing it in 220, the power consumption of the memory unit 220 can also be minimized.

The water leak detection sensor unit 100 may further include a mechanical on/off switch. The mechanical on/off switch of the water leak detection sensor unit 100 is such that, when the first communication is made between the wireless communication reader 300 and the wireless communication tag unit 200, the wireless communication tag unit 200 is connected to the wireless communication reader 300. It operates in the on state depending on the power received from. The water leak detection sensor unit operates by a mechanical on/off switch in the on state to measure the temperature, humidity, pressure, and/or vibration of the inlet space (S), and thus can detect water leaks in the pipes (10, 20). .

Figure 4 is an enlarged view of the main part of Figure 1, and Figure 5 is a diagram showing the coupling relationship between the connection joint, the water leak detection sensor part, and the wireless communication tag part. The main part of FIG. 1 refers to a portion where the inflow space (S) included in the connection joint 1 according to the present invention is formed, and a water leak detection sensor unit 100 and a water leak detection sensor unit 100 installed toward the inflow space (S). ) refers to the part where the wireless communication tag unit 200, which is electrically connected to the part, is installed.

As an example, the pipes 10 and 20 according to the present invention may be cast iron pipes. Referring to Figures 1, 4, and 5, the connection joint (1) of the pipes (10, 20) according to the present invention allows liquid to flow into the pipes (10, 20) when the pipes (10, 20) leak. The inflow space (S) may be formed separately.

The pipes 10 and 20 according to the present invention include a first pipe 10 and a second pipe 20. The first pipe 10 is inserted into one end of the second pipe 20 to form the connection joint 1. The first pipe 10 is inserted into the end of the second pipe 20.

At the connection portion of the first pipe 10 and the second pipe 20, an expansion portion 21 is formed at the end of the second pipe 20 so that one end of the first pipe 10 can be inserted, and the expansion portion (21) A first rubber ring seating portion 22 is formed on the inner peripheral surface to enable insertion of the first rubber ring 30, which prevents leakage of the pipe, and a first rubber ring (22) is formed on the outside of the first pipe 10. A pressure ring 60 for transmitting the pressure force is inserted into the pressure ring 30, and a plurality of tightening bolts 70 are fastened to the pressure ring 60 to form a connection joint 1. The first rubber ring 30 prevents liquid in the pipe from flowing into the inflow space (S).

In addition, the pressure ring 60 is provided with a second rubber ring seating portion 61 so that the second rubber ring 40 can be inserted in a position symmetrical to the first rubber ring 30, and the first rubber ring 30 ) and the second rubber ring 40, a compression ring 50 for transmitting the compression force is inserted.

The connection joint 1 further includes a pressure bolt 90 that presses the water mill 85 and a washer 91 that transmits the pressure of the pressure bolt 90 to the water mill 85. A bolt hole is formed in the pressure ring 60 so that a pressure bolt 90 for pressing the water mill ring 85 can be installed therethrough. The water sealing 85 secondarily water-seals the inflow space S into which liquid flows into the pipes 10 and 20 when a water leak occurs in the pipes 10 and 20. A washer 91 is installed at the tip of the pressure bolt 90 to uniformly transmit the pressure to the water mill 85. A plurality of pressure bolts 90 and washers 91 may be included along the circumference of the pressure ring 60.

The pressure ring 60 transmits pressure to the rubber rings (the first rubber ring 30 and the second rubber ring 40) that prevent water leakage in the pipes 10 and 20. The pressure ring 60 particularly transmits pressure to the first rubber ring 30. Water leakage from the pipes 10 and 20 occurring at the connection joint 1 occurs at a point where the first pipe 10 and the second pipe 20 are in contact with each other. When a water leak occurs in the pipes 10 and 20, the liquid in the pipes 10 and 20 flows into the interior of the connection joint 1 at the connection point between the first pipe 10 and the second pipe 20. Liquid flowing into the connection joint (1) is primarily prevented from leaking by the first rubber ring (30). If the first rubber ring 30 is damaged, the liquid in the pipes 10 and 20 may pass through the first rubber ring 30 and flow into the inflow space S. Liquid flowing into the inlet space (S) is secondaryly prevented from leaking by the water sealing (85) described above.

The pressure ring 60 includes a through hole 63 and a water leak detection hole 62. The water leak detection hole 62 is connected to the inflow space (S) through the through hole 63.

The water leak detection sensor unit 100 is installed in the water leak detection hole 62. The water leak detection sensor unit 100 detects the temperature, humidity, pressure, and/or vibration within the inlet space (S) through the hole 63 to generate water leak information of the pipes (10, 20), and the generated water leak information It is transmitted to the electrically connected wireless communication tag unit 200.

The pressure ring 60 further includes a tag coupling hole 65. The tag coupling hole 65 is open in one direction and includes an internal space. The protruding end of the water leak detection sensor unit 100 installed in the water leak detection hole 62 is located inside the tag coupling hole 65.

Except for the open direction of the tag coupling hole 65, other directions are closed by the inner surface of the pressure ring 60. The open one direction of the tag coupling hole 65 is sealed by the tag housing 201 of the wireless communication tag unit 200 coupled to the connection joint 1.

The tag coupling hole 65 is connected to the inflow space (S) through the water leak detection hole 62 and the through hole 63. When the water leak detection sensor unit 100 is inserted and coupled to the water leak detection hole 62, the tag coupling hole 65 and the through hole 63 are disconnected from each other by the water leak detection sensor unit 100. Therefore, when the water leak detection sensor unit 100 is installed in the water leak detection hole 62, the liquid in the inflow space S does not flow into the inner space of the tag coupling hole 65.

The protruding end of the water leak detection sensor unit 100 is located in the inner space of the tag coupling hole 65. The protruding end of the water leak detection sensor unit 100 may have a diameter larger than the diameters of the through hole 63 and the water leak detection hole 62. The protruding end of the water leak detection sensor unit 100, which has a diameter larger than the diameter of the through hole 63 and the water leak detection hole 62, is directed toward the pressure ring 60 in which the through hole 63 and the inflow space (S) are formed. It is installed in close contact with each other.

The protruding end of the water leak detection sensor unit 100, which has a diameter larger than the diameter of the through hole 63 and the water leak detection hole 62, is in close contact with the through hole 63 and the inflow space (S). It is located in the tag coupling hole 65, and as the other end of the water leak detection sensor unit 100 is inserted into the water leak detection hole 62, the tag coupling hole 65 and the through hole 63 are connected to the water leak detection sensor unit 100. Blocked more effectively.

The tag housing 201 is coupled to one open side of the tag coupling hole 65. The tag housing 201 is coupled to the open side of the tag coupling hole 65 to seal the internal space of the tag coupling hole 65. The tag housing 201 includes a plurality of fastening bolts 240, 250 and a plurality of fastening parts 241, 251 coupled to the outer peripheral surface of the pressure ring 60. The fastening bolts 240 and 250 and the fastening parts 241 and 251 are coupled to the outer peripheral surface of the pressure ring 60 formed around the tag coupling hole 65.

The outer peripheral surface of the pressure ring 60 formed around the tag coupling hole 65 includes a plurality of first fastening holes 67 into which the fastening bolts 240 and 250 are inserted. The plurality of first fastening holes 67 are, for example, assuming that the wireless communication tag unit 200 is installed on the upper side of the pipes 10 and 20 as shown in FIGS. 1, 4, and 5. , a plurality of them may be formed on the upper, left, and right sides of the pressure ring 60 formed around the tag coupling hole 65, respectively. The first fastening hole 67 and the fastening bolts 240 and 250 each include corresponding threads to be screwed together.

The formation position of the fastening portions 241 and 251 on the tag housing 201 may be a position in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the pressure ring 60 when combined with the pressure ring 60, or a position in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the pressure ring 60. It could be location. Alternatively, the fastening portions 241 and 251 may be formed to be located on the outer and inner peripheral surfaces of the pressure ring 60, respectively.

The plurality of fastening parts 241 and 251 include second fastening holes 243 and 253 into which fastening bolts 240 and 250 are inserted, respectively. The second fastening holes 243 and 253 are formed at positions corresponding to the first fastening holes 67, respectively. The second fastening holes 243 and 253 and the fastening bolts 240 and 250 have corresponding threads so that they can be screwed together. The fastening bolts 240 and 250 are screwed together with the first fastening hole 67 of the pressure ring 60 and the second fastening holes 243 and 253 of the fastening parts 241 and 251. Therefore, the tag housing 201 and the pressure ring 60 are coupled by the fastening bolts 240 and 250.

However, the coupling between the tag housing 201 and the pressure ring 60 is not limited to the screw coupling of the fastening bolts 240, 250, etc., and is coupled with the tag housing 201 through the tag coupling hole 65. ) can be applied to any configuration in which the internal space can be watertight.

The piping system according to the present invention can be used to replace the wireless communication tag unit 200 or detect water leaks by removing the fastening bolts 240, 250, etc. during future maintenance of the piping 10, 20 and the connection joint 1. The sensor unit 100 can be replaced.

Hereinafter, the watertightness maintaining structure of the connection joint 1 according to the present invention will be described.

First, the connection portion of the first pipe 10 and the second pipe 20 is joined by the tightening bolt 70, and a water leak detection sensor installed in the water leak detection hole 62 of the pressure ring 60 Unit 100 detects water leaks in the pipes 10 and 20 by measuring the temperature, humidity, pressure and/or vibration within the inflow space S through the through hole 62.

On the expansion part 21 side, close contact is achieved by the first rubber ring 30 and the second rubber ring 40, and the second rubber ring 40 is in close contact with the outer wall surface of the first pipe 10. Since close contact with the inner wall of the pressure ring (60) is maintained, even if water leakage occurs due to a decrease in water tightness of the first rubber ring (30), secondary rubber ring (40) and water seal (85) prevent water leakage from occurring. Because watertightness is achieved, the leakage prevention effect at the pipe connection can be maximized.

Figure 6 is a flowchart of a method for detecting water leakage in a pipe joint according to the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 6, the method for detecting water leaks in a piping system according to the present invention, and more specifically, the method for detecting water leaks in piping joints, includes a water leak detection sensor unit ( 100) detects water leakage in the pipes 10 and 20 and generates water leak information on the pipes 10 and 20 (S103). In this step, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 generates water leak information into the water leak detection sensor unit (S103). A step (S105) of transmitting to a wireless communication tag unit 200 installed in the ground to be connected to 100) and a wireless communication reader 300 capable of wireless communication with the wireless communication tag unit 200 is connected to the wireless communication tag unit (200) on the ground. 200) and wirelessly connecting to receive water leakage information (S107).

In step S103, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 detects water leaks in the pipes 10 and 20. In particular, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 measures the temperature, humidity, pressure, and/or vibration of the inlet space (S) formed in the connection joint (1) of the pipes (10, 20) and detects the liquid that has flowed into the inlet space (S). Detects and generates water leak information.

In step S105, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 transmits the water leak information generated in step S103 to the wireless communication tag unit 200. The wireless communication tag unit 200 stores the received water leak information in the memory unit 220.

In step S107, the wireless communication tag unit 200 transmits water leakage information to the wireless communication reader 300 on the ground. At this time, the wireless communication tag unit 200 may transmit information about the pipes 10 and 20 and/or the connection joint 1 along with the water leakage information.

In addition, in the method for detecting water leaks in a piping system according to the present invention, before step S101, when the wireless communication reader 300 is wirelessly connected to the wireless communication tag unit 200 through initial communication, the wireless communication of the wireless communication reader 300 It may further include a step (S101) in which the water leak detection sensor unit 100 operates by a signal.

In step S101, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 starts operating by the first wireless communication signal between the wireless communication reader 300 and the wireless communication tag unit 200. Accordingly, the water leak detection sensor unit 100 operates only when the wireless communication tag unit 200 and the wireless communication reader 300 are connected, thereby minimizing power consumption. The water leak detection sensor unit 100 may operate by receiving power supplied by the wireless communication tag unit 200 from the wireless communication reader 300.

A detailed description of each configuration in each step is as described above.

For reference, the method for detecting water leaks in a piping system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and more specifically, the method for detecting water leaks in piping joints, is implemented in the form of program instructions that can be executed through various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable medium. It can be. The computer-readable medium may include program instructions, data files, data structures, etc., singly or in combination. Program instructions recorded on the medium may be those specifically designed and constructed for the present invention, or may be known and usable by those skilled in the art of computer software. Examples of computer readable media include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks and magnetic tapes, optical recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVDs, magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and ROM, RAM, Hardware devices specifically configured to store and perform program instructions, such as flash memory, may be included. Examples of program instructions include not only machine language code such as that created by a compiler, but also high-level language code that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc. The hardware devices described above may be configured to operate as one or more software modules to perform the operations of the present invention, and vice versa.

In this specification, the water leak detection sensor unit 100, the wireless communication tag unit 200, and the wireless communication reader 300 may include processors that execute sequential execution processes stored in memory. Alternatively, it may operate as software modules driven and controlled by a processor. Furthermore, a processor may be a hardware device.

The memory unit 220 according to the present invention may include a database management system (hereinafter referred to as DBMS). DBMS is a set of software tools that allow multiple users to access data in the memory unit 220. DBMS includes IMS, CODASYL DB, DB2, ORACLE, INFORMIX, SYBASE, INGRES, MS-SQL, Objectivity, O2, Versanat, Ontos, Gemstone, Unisql, Object Store, Starburst, Postgres, Tibero, MySQL or MS-access. can do. DBMS allows access to specific data depending on the input of a specific command.

In this specification, 'part' includes a unit realized by hardware, a unit realized by software, and a unit realized using both. Additionally, one unit may be realized using two or more pieces of hardware, and two or more units may be realized using one piece of hardware.

The scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the description and expression of the embodiments explicitly described above. In addition, it is once again added that the scope of protection of the present invention may not be limited due to changes or substitutions that are obvious in the technical field to which the present invention pertains.

1: Connection joint 10: First pipe
20: second pipe 21: expansion part
22: first rubber ring seating portion 30: first rubber ring
40: second rubber ring 50: compression ring
60: Pressure ring 61: Second rubber ring seating portion
62: water leak detection hole 63: through hole
65: Tag coupling hole 67: First fastening hole
70: Tightening bolt 85: Water milling
90: pressurizing bolt 91: washer
100: water leak detection sensor unit 200: wireless communication tag unit
201: Tag housing 210: Antenna unit
211: antenna housing 220: memory unit
230: Spacing frame 240: Fastening screw
241: fastening part 243: second fastening hole
250: fastening screw 251: fastening part
253: second fastening hole 300: wireless communication reader
S: Inlet space

Claims (8)

A water leak detection sensor unit installed at a connection joint of an underground pipe, which detects water leaks in the pipe and generates water leak information about the pipe;
A wireless communication tag unit installed in the ground to be connected to the water leak detection sensor unit and receiving the water leak information; and
A wireless communication reader capable of wireless communication with the wireless communication tag unit on the ground and receiving the water leakage information;
Including,
The wireless communication tag unit,
An antenna housing installed therein with an antenna unit for transmitting and receiving a wireless communication signal with the wireless communication reader and a memory unit storing the water leak information received from the water leak detection sensor unit; and
It includes a spacing frame that separates the antenna housing from the pipe and the connection joint at a predetermined distance,
The antenna unit is installed horizontally with the ground within the antenna housing,
The connection joint is,
A rubber ring to prevent water leakage from the pipe;
A pressure ring that transmits pressure to the rubber ring;
Water sealing to watertight the inflow space where liquid flows into the pipe when the pipe leaks;
A pressure bolt that pressurizes the water mill; and
Includes a washer that transmits pressing force to the water mill,
The pressure ring includes a water leak detection hole connected to the inlet space through a hole,
The water leak detection sensor unit is installed in the water leak detection hole and detects temperature, humidity, pressure, or vibration in the inflow space through the hole to generate the water leak information,
The pressure ring includes a tag coupling hole that is coupled to the wireless communication tag unit to form a sealed internal space,
The tag coupling hole, the water leak detection hole, and the inflow space are connected to each other, and the water leak detection sensor unit is installed in the water leak detection hole to block the connection between the tag coupling hole and the inlet space. . In claim 1,
One end of the water leak detection sensor installed in the water leak detection hole protrudes inside the tag coupling hole,
One end of the water leak detection sensor unit has a diameter larger than the diameter of the through hole and the water leak detection hole,
A piping system, characterized in that one end of the water leak detection sensor unit is located in the tag coupling hole so as to be in close contact with the through hole, thereby blocking the connection between the through hole and the tag coupling hole. In claim 1,
The wireless communication tag unit,
It includes a tag housing including the antenna housing and the spacing frame therein,
The piping system is characterized in that the tag housing is coupled to one side of the pressure ring where the tag coupling hole is formed to seal the open side of the tag coupling hole. In claim 3,
The tag housing is,
A plurality of fastening bolts coupled around one side of the pressure ring where the tag coupling hole is formed; and
A plurality of fastening parts including fastening holes with threads formed to be screwed with the fastening bolts;
A piping system comprising: In claim 1,
The water leak detection sensor unit,
A piping system, characterized in that the operation is initiated by a wireless communication signal between the wireless communication reader and the wireless communication tag unit, detects water leakage in the pipe, and transmits water leakage information in the pipe to the wireless communication tag unit. In claim 1,
The wireless communication reader,
During wireless communication between the wireless communication reader and the wireless communication tag, power is transmitted to the wireless communication tag unit,
The wireless communication tag unit,
A piping system, characterized in that the water leak detection sensor unit is operated using received power. A water leak detection sensor unit installed in a connection joint of an underground pipe detects water leaks in the pipe and generates water leak information about the pipe;
transmitting, by the water leak detection sensor unit, the water leak information to a wireless communication tag unit installed underground to be connected to the water leak detection sensor unit; and
A wireless communication reader capable of wireless communication with the wireless communication tag unit is wirelessly connected to the wireless communication tag unit on the ground to receive the water leakage information;
Includes,
The wireless communication tag unit,
An antenna housing installed therein with an antenna unit for transmitting and receiving a wireless communication signal with the wireless communication reader and a memory unit storing the water leak information received from the water leak detection sensor unit; and
It includes a spacing frame that separates the antenna housing from the pipe and the connection joint at a predetermined distance,
The antenna unit is installed horizontally with the ground within the antenna housing,
The connection joint is,
A rubber ring to prevent water leakage from the pipe;
A pressure ring that transmits pressure to the rubber ring;
Water sealing to watertight the inflow space where liquid flows into the pipe when the pipe leaks;
A pressure bolt that pressurizes the water mill; and
Includes a washer that transmits pressing force to the water mill,
The pressure ring includes a water leak detection hole connected to the inlet space through a hole,
The water leak detection sensor unit is installed in the water leak detection hole and detects temperature, humidity, pressure, or vibration in the inflow space through the hole to generate the water leak information,
The pressure ring includes a tag coupling hole that is coupled to the wireless communication tag unit to form a sealed internal space,
The tag coupling hole, the water leak detection hole, and the inflow space are connected to each other, and the water leak detection sensor unit is installed in the water leak detection hole to block the connection between the tag coupling hole and the inlet space. Water leak detection method. In claim 7,
Before generating the leakage information,
When the wireless communication reader is wirelessly connected to the wireless communication tag unit, operating the water leak detection sensor unit by a wireless communication signal from the wireless communication reader;
A method for detecting water leaks in a piping system, further comprising:

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