WO2013158515A1 - Device for monitoring water supply equipment, water purification equipment and solar water heater - Google Patents

Device for monitoring water supply equipment, water purification equipment and solar water heater Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2013158515A1
WO2013158515A1 PCT/US2013/036521 US2013036521W WO2013158515A1 WO 2013158515 A1 WO2013158515 A1 WO 2013158515A1 US 2013036521 W US2013036521 W US 2013036521W WO 2013158515 A1 WO2013158515 A1 WO 2013158515A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
water
unit
supply equipment
result
water condition
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2013/036521
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Wenqing Wang
Biyong Qiu
Jieying LUO
Yonggang Lei
Jun Xu
Original Assignee
3M Innovative Properties Company
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=47590392&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=WO2013158515(A1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Application filed by 3M Innovative Properties Company filed Critical 3M Innovative Properties Company
Publication of WO2013158515A1 publication Critical patent/WO2013158515A1/en

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Classifications

    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/008—Control or steering systems not provided for elsewhere in subclass C02F
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N33/00—Investigating or analysing materials by specific methods not covered by groups G01N1/00 - G01N31/00
    • G01N33/18—Water
    • G01N33/1886—Water using probes, e.g. submersible probes, buoys
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/001—Processes for the treatment of water whereby the filtration technique is of importance
    • C02F1/003—Processes for the treatment of water whereby the filtration technique is of importance using household-type filters for producing potable water, e.g. pitchers, bottles, faucet mounted devices
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2209/00—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment
    • C02F2209/005—Processes using a programmable logic controller [PLC]
    • C02F2209/008—Processes using a programmable logic controller [PLC] comprising telecommunication features, e.g. modems or antennas
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2209/00—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment
    • C02F2209/02—Temperature
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2209/00—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment
    • C02F2209/05—Conductivity or salinity
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2209/00—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment
    • C02F2209/06—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment pH

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a detection technology, and more particularly, to a device for monitoring water supply equipment.
  • the device can, for example, be applied in water purification equipment, a solar water heater or other suitable water supply equipment to detect the running state of the same.
  • Water supply equipment such as water purification equipment and solar water heaters, are widely used in our daily life to provide water to be used for industrial manufacture, drinking, washing and other applications.
  • this water supply equipment delivers the treated water to a water outlet via a water supply pipeline, and then the treated water is supplied to a user.
  • this water supply equipment is far from the water outlet, which makes it difficult for the user to observe the water condition in the water supply equipment, such as the water temperature, water quality, etc. Since the water condition indicates the running state of the water supply equipment, the difficulties in obtaining the water condition information would result in the user not being able to monitor the running state of the water supply equipment, which would affect the use thereof.
  • the present invention provides a device for monitoring water supply equipment.
  • the device comprises a detecting module and a monitoring module, and the detecting module and the monitoring module are coupled with each other via wireless connection, wherein the detecting module is disposed on the water supply equipment, and the detecting module comprises: a sensing unit for detecting the water condition in the water supply equipment, a signal processing unit electrically connected to the sensing unit for processing the water condition provided by the sensing unit, and a first wireless communication unit electrically connected to the signal processing unit for transmitting the processed water condition result.
  • the monitoring module is disposed outside the water supply equipment for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module and displaying the same.
  • the sensing unit comprises a temperature sensor, a flow rate sensor, a humidity sensor, a liquid level sensor, a pH sensor, a pressure sensor and/or a conductivity sensor.
  • the monitoring module comprises a second wireless communication unit, a control unit and a display unit, wherein the second wireless communication unit is used to receive the processed water condition result from the detecting module.
  • the control unit is electrically connected to the second wireless communication unit and the display unit, and used to control the display of the processed water condition result on the display unit.
  • control unit is further used to compare the processed water condition result with a predetermined water condition reference range, and provide the display unit with the result of comparison.
  • control unit is further used to transmit the result of comparison via the second wireless communication unit when the processed water condition result goes beyond the predetermined water condition reference range.
  • the way of wireless communication comprises bluetooth communication, ZigBee communication, 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication or wireless internet communication.
  • the present invention provides water purification equipment comprising the device according to the embodiments of the first aspect.
  • the present invention provides a solar water heater comprising the device according to the embodiments of the first aspect.
  • the monitoring device can detect the water condition in the water supply equipment (for example, water purification equipment, or a solar water heater) by the detecting module, and transmit the water condition result via wireless communication.
  • the water supply equipment for example, water purification equipment, or a solar water heater
  • Fig. 1 illustrates a device 100 for monitoring water supply equipment according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig. 2 illustrates an example of the monitoring module 103 of the device 100 for monitoring the water supply equipment shown in Fig. 1 ;
  • Fig. 3 illustrates an example displayed by the display unit 205 of Fig. 2;
  • Fig. 4 illustrates water purification equipment 40 according to another embodiment of the present invention and a device 400 for monitoring the same;
  • Fig. 5 illustrates a solar water heater 50 according to yet another embodiment of the present invention and a device 500 for monitoring the same.
  • Fig. 1 illustrates a device 100 for monitoring water supply equipment of an embodiment according to the present invention.
  • the device 100 is used to monitor the water condition in the water supply equipment and send the detected water condition to the user for reference.
  • the water supply unit 10 may be, for example, a water purification unit, a solar water heater, an electric water heater or other suitable equipment.
  • the water supply unit 10 is connected to a water outlet 14 by a water outlet pipe and supplies water via the water outlet 14.
  • the device 100 comprises a detecting module 101 and a monitoring module 103,
  • the detecting module 101 and the monitoring module 103 are coupled with each other via wireless connection, wherein the detecting module 101 is disposed on the water supply equipment 10, and the detecting unit 101 comprises: a sensing unit 105 for detecting the water condition in the water supply equipment 10; a signal processing unit 107 electrically connected to the sensing unit 105 for processing the water condition provided by the sensing unit 105; and a first wireless communication unit 109 electrically connected to the signal processing unit 107 for transmitting the processed water condition result; the monitoring module 103 is disposed outside the water supply equipment 10 for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module 101 and displaying the same.
  • the sensing unit 105 may comprise one or more of a temperature sensor, a flow rate sensor, a humidity sensor, a liquid level sensor, a pH sensor, a pressure sensor and/or a conductivity sensor. These sensors are used respectively to detect the physical or chemical properties of the water, i.e. the water condition, in the water supply equipment 10.
  • the water supply equipment 10 may comprise a water tank (not shown) that is used to store and/or treat water.
  • the sensing unit 105 such as a temperature sensor, a liquid level sensor, a pH sensor may be disposed in the water tank of the water supply equipment 10, for example, at the bottom, or on the sides of the water tank.
  • the sensing unit 105 such as a pressure sensor, a flow rate sensor and/or a conductivity sensor, etc may be disposed in a water outlet pipe 12 that is connected with the water supply equipment 10 for detecting the physical properties of the flowing water.
  • a change of the water condition in the water supply equipment 10 may indicate the running state of the water supply equipment 10.
  • the water supply equipment 10 is water purification equipment.
  • the water purification equipment may comprise a filtration module disposed in the water tank or the water outlet pipe. Due to some factors, for example, a long period of time in use, the filtration module may be partly clogged, which would result in a raised water pressure or a reduced flow rate in the water outlet pipe. Accordingly, the change of water pressure or flow rate may be detected by the sensing unit 105 and thereby indicating the running state of the filtration module.
  • the water supply equipment 10 is, for example, a solar water heater.
  • the solar water heater comprises a water tank mounted outdoors with a heat collector.
  • the sensing unit 105 By disposing the sensing unit 105 in the water tank, the water temperature, the water level or other characteristics can be detected to determine the running state of the water inlet means or heat collector of the water tank.
  • the way for determining the running state of the water supply equipment by the water condition is not only simple, effective, but also convenient for the user to observe.
  • the sensing unit 105 will generate a water condition result reflecting the change of the water condition and provides the signal processing unit 107 with the same.
  • the signal processing unit 107 may further comprise a signal receiving subunit (not shown) for receiving the water condition result provided by the sensing unit 105 and having the water condition result pretreated.
  • the water condition result may be an analog signal or a digital signal.
  • the signal receiving subunit may be an analog signal amplifying and filtering circuit for amplifying the signal of the water condition result and filtering the same to remove the noise signal or interference signal contained therein.
  • the signal receiving subunit may be, for example, a digital signal receiving circuit.
  • the signal processing unit 107 may be disposed in the water supply equipment 10, for example, integrated with the sensing unit 105. In some other cases, the signal processing unit 107 may also be disposed outside the water supply equipment 10, for example, located on the exterior of the water tank or the water outlet pipe and coupled to the sensing unit 105 of the water supply equipment 10 by a signal wire passing through the water supply equipment 10.
  • the water condition result may change in a consecutive way with the running of the water supply equipment 10, and the sensing unit 105 may be configured to collect a plurality of samples in a certain period of time, and a plurality of result values may be generated. Accordingly, the signal processing unit 107 may determine the water condition according to the plurality of result values corresponding to the certain period of time.
  • the signal processing unit 107 may apply a method of averaging or other statistical methods to process the plurality of result values and generate a processed water condition result. It would be understood that the signal processing unit 107 may be comprised of one or more circuits, a special integrated circuit, a programmable logic array, a programmable processor, a field programmable gate array or other suitable means.
  • the first wireless communication unit 109 may comprise one or more of a bluetooth communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, a 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication unit or a wireless internet communication unit such that the detecting module can communicate and exchange data with the monitoring module 103 via the corresponding wireless connections.
  • the detecting module 101 disposed on the water supply equipment 10 may further comprise a power supply unit (not shown) for receiving power and supplying the power to other units of the detecting module 101.
  • the power supply may use a battery which can be readily integrated as a whole with the detecting unit 101 and disposed on the water supply equipment 10.
  • the power supply may also be an alternating current (AC) which can be supplied to the detecting module 101 via a power transmission line.
  • AC alternating current
  • the monitoring module 103 is disposed outside the water supply equipment 10 for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module 101 and displaying the same.
  • the monitoring module 103 may be encapsulated in a mobile casing and powered by a battery. In this way, the monitoring module 103 may be taken to different places as per the needs of a user, which is extremely convenient to the user.
  • Fig. 2 illustrates an example of the monitoring module 103 of the device 100 for monitoring the water supply equipment of Fig. 1.
  • the monitoring module 103 may comprise a second wireless communication unit 201, a control unit 203 and a display unit 205, wherein the second wireless communication unit 201 is used to receive the processed water condition result from the detecting module; the control unit 203 is electrically connected to the second wireless communication unit 201 and used to control the display of the processed water condition result on the display unit 205.
  • the second wireless communication unit 201 is a communication unit matching the first wireless communication unit such that the second wireless communication unit 201 is adapted to receiving the data transmitted by the first wireless communication unit, and/or transmitting data to the first wireless communication unit.
  • the second wireless communication unit 201 may comprise one or more of a bluetooth communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, a 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication unit or a wireless internet communication unit.
  • the display unit 205 may be a light emitting diode nixie tube, a liquid crystal display or other suitable display components.
  • the processed water condition result may be a series of values, and accordingly, the control unit 203 may control to display these values on the display unit 205. 1 would be understood that, in some cases, the second wireless communication unit 201 may have one or more wireless channels wherein each of the wireless channels can be in wireless communication with a different detecting module. In this way, the monitoring module may be used to monitor one or more water supply equipment.
  • control unit 203 may also be used to compare the processed water condition result with a predetermined water condition reference range and provide the display unit 205 with the result of the comparison.
  • the predetermined water condition reference rang may be stored in the control unit 203, or a memory unit (not shown) connected with the control unit 203.
  • the control unit 203 may, based on the result of comparison, generate a signal indicating that the water supply equipment is running in a normal state.
  • the control unit 203 may, based on the result of comparison, generate a signal indicating that the water supply equipment is running in an abnormal state, and instruct the display unit 205 to display the signal to remind the user. Further, the control unit 203 may also provide the second wireless communication unit 201 with the result of comparison when the water condition result goes beyond the water condition reference range, and the second wireless communication unit 201 will send the result of comparison out. For example, the control unit 203 may send the result of comparison to a control means on the water supply equipment to control the operation of the same. Alternatively, the control unit 203 may send the result of comparison to a management server of the water supply equipment managed, for example, by the equipment provider or a maintenance service provider to remind that the water supply equipment is running in an abnormal state, or needs an overhaul.
  • the monitoring module may further comprise, for example, a speaker or other reminders. These reminders output the processed water condition result under the control of the control unit 203 to remind the running state of the water supply equipment.
  • Fig. 3 illustrates an example displayed by the display unit 205 shown in Fig. 2.
  • the processed water condition result displayed on the display unit comprises water temperature, water pressure, flow rate, the water level, etc. Additionally, the display unit may also display information in respect of the power supply status and run time of the detecting module.
  • the detecting module may be designed as a special circuit module having a function of wireless communication.
  • the detecting module may be integrated, in a form of software application program, into some universal calculating devices, such as a mobile communication terminal, a computer, or the like. These devices comprise a wireless communication unit corresponding to the way of wireless communication of the detecting module (for example, a bluetooth communication unit, a wireless network communication unit, etc), and a control unit (for example, a microprocessor) and a display unit, such as a display screen or a display means).
  • a wireless communication unit corresponding to the way of wireless communication of the detecting module
  • a control unit for example, a microprocessor
  • a display unit such as a display screen or a display means.
  • Fig. 4 illustrates water purification equipment 40 and a device 400 for monitoring the same according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • the water purification equipment 40 is an equipment for carrying out water purification treatment by, for example, filtration, ultraviolet irradiation or other suitable ways.
  • the water purification equipment 40 is connected to a water outlet 44 via a water outlet pipe 42 and supplies water via the water outlet 44.
  • the monitoring device 400 comprises a detecting module 401 and a monitoring module 403.
  • the detecting module 401 and the monitoring module 403 are coupled with each other via wireless connection, wherein the detecting module 401 is disposed on the water outlet or the water outlet pipe of the water supply equipment 40, and the detecting unit 401 comprises: a sensing unit 405 for detecting the water condition in the water supply equipment 40; a signal processing unit 407 electrically connected to the sensing unit 405 for processing the water condition provided by the sensing unit 405; and a first wireless communication unit 409 electrically connected to the signal processing unit 407 for transmitting the processed water condition result; the monitoring module 403 is disposed outside the water purification equipment 40 for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module 401 and displaying the same.
  • the sensing unit 405 may comprise one or more of a temperature sensor, a flow rate sensor, a humidity sensor, a liquid level sensor, a pH sensor, a pressure sensor and/or a conductivity sensor. These sensors are used respectively to detect the physical or chemical properties of the water, i.e. the water condition, in the water purification equipment 40.
  • a change of the water condition in the water purification equipment 40 may indicate the running state of the water purification equipment 40.
  • the water purification equipment 40 may comprise a filtration module disposed in the water tank or the water outlet pipe. Due to some factors, for example, a long period of time in use, the filtration module may be partly clogged, which would result in a raised water pressure or a reduced flow rate in the water outlet pipe. Accordingly, the change of water pressure or flow rate may be detected by the sensing unit 405 and thereby indicating the running state of the filtration module.
  • the water condition may change in a consecutive way with the running of the water purification equipment 40, and the sensing unit 405 may be configured to collect a plurality of samples in a certain period of time and a plurality of result values may be generated.
  • the signal processing unit 407 may determine the water condition of the water purification equipment 40 according to the plurality of result values corresponding to the certain period of time. For example, the signal processing unit 407 may apply a method of averaging or other statistical methods to process the plurality of result values and generate a processed water condition result. It would be understood that the signal processing unit 407 may be comprised of one or more circuits, a special integrated circuit, a programmable logic array, a programmable processor, a field programmable gate array or other suitable means.
  • the first wireless communication unit 409 may comprise one or more of a bluetooth communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, a 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication unit or a wireless internet communication unit such that the detecting module can communicate and exchange data with the monitoring module 403 via the corresponding wireless connections.
  • the monitoring module 403 is disposed outside the water purification device 40 for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module 401 and displaying the same.
  • the monitoring module 403 may be encapsulated in a mobile casing and powered by a battery. In this way, the monitoring module 403 may be taken to different places as per the needs of a user, which is extremely convenient to the user.
  • the monitoring module 403 may comprise a second wireless communication unit 411, a control unit 413 and a display unit 415, wherein the second wireless communication unit 411 is used to receive the processed water condition result from the detecting module; the control unit 413 is electrically connected to the second wireless communication unit 411 and used to control the display of the processed water condition result on the display unit 415.
  • the second wireless communication unit 411 is a communication unit matching the first wireless communication unit such that the second wireless communication unit 411 is adapted to receiving the data transmitted by the first wireless communication unit and/or transmitting data to the first wireless communication unit.
  • the second wireless communication unit 411 may comprise one or more of a bluetooth communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, a 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication unit or a wireless internet communication unit.
  • the display unit 415 may be a light emitting diode nixie tube, a liquid crystal display or other suitable display components.
  • the processed water condition result may be a series of values, and accordingly, the control unit 413 may control to display these values on the display unit 415.
  • control unit 413 may also be used to compare the processed water condition result with a predetermined water condition reference range and provide the display unit 415 with the result of comparison.
  • the predetermined water condition reference range may be stored in the control unit 413, or a memory unit (not shown) connected with the control unit 413.
  • the control unit 413 may, based on the result of comparison, generate a signal indicating that the water purification unit is running in a normal state.
  • the control unit 413 may, based on the result of comparison, generate a signal indicating that the water purification equipment is running in an abnormal state, and instruct the display unit 415 to display the signal to remind the user. Further, the control unit 413 may also provide the second wireless communication unit 411 with the result of comparison when the water condition result goes beyond the water condition reference range, and the second wireless communication unit 411 will send the result of comparison out. For example, the control unit 413 may send the result of comparison to a control means on the water purification equipment to control the operation of the same. Alternatively, the control unit 413 may send the result of comparison to a management server of the water purification equipment 40 managed, for example, by the equipment provider or a maintenance service provider to remind that the water purification equipment is running in an abnormal state, or needs an overhaul.
  • the water purification equipment 40 is installed in, for example, a kitchen. Accordingly, the detecting module 401 is also disposed in the kitchen. Since the detecting module 401 is connected with the monitoring module 403 by wireless communication, the monitoring module 403 may be disposed in a place away from the water purification equipment 40, such as in a bedroom, a living room or somewhere outdoors, and can be moved with a user. This facilitates the user to have access to the water condition information in a timely manner, even if the user is far away from the water purification equipment 40, and determine the running state of water purification equipment 40, which is extremely convenient for the user to use and overhaul the same.
  • Fig. 5 illustrates a solar water heater 50 and a device 500 for monitoring the same according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.
  • the solar water heater 50 is connected to a water outlet 54 via a water outlet pipe 52 and supplies water via the water outlet 54.
  • the monitoring device 500 comprises a detecting module 501 and a monitoring module 503.
  • the detecting module 501 and the monitoring module 503 are coupled with each other via wireless connection, wherein the detecting module 501 is disposed on the water tank of the solar water heater 50, and the detecting unit 501 comprises: a sensing unit 505 for detecting the water condition in the tank; a signal processing unit 507 electrically connected to the sensing unit 505 for processing the water condition provided by the sensing unit 505; and a first wireless communication unit 509 electrically connected to the signal processing unit 507 for transmitting the processed water condition result; the monitoring module 503 is disposed outside the solar water heater 50 for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module 501 and displaying the same.
  • the sensing unit 505 may comprise one or more of a temperature sensor, a flow rate sensor, a humidity sensor, a liquid level sensor, a pH sensor, a pressure sensor and/or a conductivity sensor. These sensors are used respectively to detect the physical or chemical properties of the water, i.e. the water condition, in the solar water heater 50.
  • the water tank of the solar water heater comprises a heat collector.
  • the sensing unit 505 disposed on the water tank such as inside the water tank or on a side wall of the water tank, the water temperature, water level or other characteristics can be detected. In actual use, this way for determining the running state of water supply equipment using the water condition thereof is not only more simple and effective, but also convenient for a user to observe.
  • the water condition may change in a consecutive way with the running of the solar water heater 50, and the sensing unit 505 may be configured to collect a plurality of samples in a certain period of time and a plurality of result values may be generated.
  • the signal processing unit 507 may determine the water condition of the solar water heater 50 according to the plurality of result values corresponding to the certain period of time and thus determine the running state of the solar water heater 50.
  • the signal processing unit 507 may apply a method of averaging or other statistical methods to process the plurality of result values and generate a processed water condition result.
  • the signal processing unit 507 may be comprised of one or more circuits, a special integrated circuit, a programmable logic array, a programmable processor, a field programmable gate array or other suitable means.
  • the first wireless communication unit 509 may comprise one or more of a bluetooth communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, a 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication unit or a wireless internet communication unit such that the detecting module can communicate and exchange data with the monitoring module 503 via the corresponding wireless connections.
  • the monitoring module 503 is disposed outside the solar water heater 50 for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module 501 and displaying the same.
  • the monitoring module 503 may be encapsulated in a mobile casing and powered by a battery. In this way, the monitoring module 503 may be taken to different places as per the needs of a user, which is extremely convenient to the user.
  • the monitoring module 503 may comprise a second wireless communication unit 511, a control unit 513 and a display unit 515, wherein the second wireless communication unit 511 is used to receive the processed water condition result from the detecting module; the control unit 513 is electrically connected to the second wireless communication unit 511 and used to control the display of the processed water condition result on the display unit 515.
  • the second wireless communication unit 511 is a communication unit matching the first wireless communication unit such that the second wireless communication unit 511 is adapted to receiving the data transmitted by the first wireless communication unit and/or transmitting data to the first wireless communication unit.
  • the second wireless communication unit 511 may comprise one or more of a bluetooth communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, a 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication unit or a wireless internet communication unit.
  • the display unit 515 may be a light emitting diode nixie tube, a liquid crystal display or other suitable display components.
  • the processed water condition result may be a series of values, and accordingly, the control unit 513 may control to display these values on the display unit 515.
  • control unit 513 may also be used to compare the processed water condition result with a predetermined water condition reference range and provide the display unit 515 with the result of comparison.
  • the predetermined water condition reference range may be stored in the control unit 513, or a memory unit (not shown) connected with the control unit 513.
  • the control unit 513 may, based on the result of comparison, generate a signal indicating that the water purification equipment is running in a normal state.
  • the control unit 513 may, based on the result of comparison, generate a signal indicating that the water purification equipment is running in an abnormal state, and instruct the display unit 515 to display the signal to remind the user. Further, the control unit 513 may also provide the second wireless communication unit 511 with the result of comparison when the water condition result goes beyond the water condition reference range, and the second wireless communication unit 511 will send the result of comparison out. For example, the control unit 513 may send the result of comparison to a control means on the water purification equipment to control the operation of the same. Alternatively, the control unit 513 may send the result of comparison to a management server of the solar water heater 50 managed, for example, by the equipment provider or a maintenance service provider to remind that the solar water heater is running in an abnormal state, or needs an overhaul.
  • the solar water heater 50 is installed in, for example, outdoors, or on the top of a building. Accordingly, the detecting module 501 is also disposed outdoors. Since the detecting module 501 is connected with the monitoring module 503 by a wireless communication, the monitoring module 503 may be disposed in a place away from the solar water heater 50, such as indoors, or taken by a the user. This facilitates the user to have access to the water condition information in a timely manner, and determine the running state of the solar water heater 50, which is extremely convenient for the user to use and overhaul the same.

Abstract

A device for monitoring water supply equipment, water purification equipment and a solar water heater. The device for monitoring water supply equipment comprises a detecting module and a monitoring module, the detecting module and the monitoring module being coupled with each other via wireless connection. The detecting module of the device is disposed on the water supply equipment, and the detecting module comprises a sensing unit for detecting the water condition in the water supply equipment. The detecting module further comprises a signal processing unit electrically connected to the sensing unit for processing the water condition provided by the sensing unit. The detecting module further comprises a first wireless communication unit electrically connected to the signal processing unit for transmitting the processed water condition result. The monitoring module of the device is disposed outside the water supply equipment for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module and displaying the same. By using the device, a user far away from the water supply equipment can still have access to the water condition information and determine the running state of the water supply equipment.

Description

DEVICE FOR MONITORING WATER SUPPLY EQUIPMENT, WATER PURIFICATION
EQUIPMENT AND SOLAR WATER HEATER
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to a detection technology, and more particularly, to a device for monitoring water supply equipment. The device can, for example, be applied in water purification equipment, a solar water heater or other suitable water supply equipment to detect the running state of the same.
TECHNICAL BACKGROUND
Water supply equipment, such as water purification equipment and solar water heaters, are widely used in our daily life to provide water to be used for industrial manufacture, drinking, washing and other applications. In general, this water supply equipment delivers the treated water to a water outlet via a water supply pipeline, and then the treated water is supplied to a user.
However, generally, this water supply equipment is far from the water outlet, which makes it difficult for the user to observe the water condition in the water supply equipment, such as the water temperature, water quality, etc. Since the water condition indicates the running state of the water supply equipment, the difficulties in obtaining the water condition information would result in the user not being able to monitor the running state of the water supply equipment, which would affect the use thereof.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Based on the analysis above, it is desirable to provide a device for monitoring the water condition of water supply equipment.
For the purpose of solving the technical problems as described above, the present invention, according to a first aspect, provides a device for monitoring water supply equipment. The device comprises a detecting module and a monitoring module, and the detecting module and the monitoring module are coupled with each other via wireless connection, wherein the detecting module is disposed on the water supply equipment, and the detecting module comprises: a sensing unit for detecting the water condition in the water supply equipment, a signal processing unit electrically connected to the sensing unit for processing the water condition provided by the sensing unit, and a first wireless communication unit electrically connected to the signal processing unit for transmitting the processed water condition result. The monitoring module is disposed outside the water supply equipment for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module and displaying the same.
In an embodiment, the sensing unit comprises a temperature sensor, a flow rate sensor, a humidity sensor, a liquid level sensor, a pH sensor, a pressure sensor and/or a conductivity sensor.
In an embodiment, the monitoring module comprises a second wireless communication unit, a control unit and a display unit, wherein the second wireless communication unit is used to receive the processed water condition result from the detecting module. The control unit is electrically connected to the second wireless communication unit and the display unit, and used to control the display of the processed water condition result on the display unit.
In an embodiment, the control unit is further used to compare the processed water condition result with a predetermined water condition reference range, and provide the display unit with the result of comparison.
In an embodiment, the control unit is further used to transmit the result of comparison via the second wireless communication unit when the processed water condition result goes beyond the predetermined water condition reference range.
In an embodiment, the way of wireless communication comprises bluetooth communication, ZigBee communication, 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication or wireless internet communication.
According to a second aspect, the present invention provides water purification equipment comprising the device according to the embodiments of the first aspect.
According to a third aspect, the present invention provides a solar water heater comprising the device according to the embodiments of the first aspect.
Compared with the prior art, the monitoring device according to the embodiments of the present invention as described above can detect the water condition in the water supply equipment (for example, water purification equipment, or a solar water heater) by the detecting module, and transmit the water condition result via wireless communication. In this way, a user who is far away from the water supply equipment can still have access to the water condition information and determine the running state of the water supply equipment.
The features as described above and other features of the present invention will be described explicitly in the following embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The features as described above and other features of the present invention would be more apparent by reading the embodiments described below in detail by referring to the accompanying drawings illustrating the same. The identical or similar reference numbers on the accompanying drawings of the present invention represent the identical or similar components.
Fig. 1 illustrates a device 100 for monitoring water supply equipment according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 2 illustrates an example of the monitoring module 103 of the device 100 for monitoring the water supply equipment shown in Fig. 1 ;
Fig. 3 illustrates an example displayed by the display unit 205 of Fig. 2;
Fig. 4 illustrates water purification equipment 40 according to another embodiment of the present invention and a device 400 for monitoring the same;
Fig. 5 illustrates a solar water heater 50 according to yet another embodiment of the present invention and a device 500 for monitoring the same.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
In the particular description of the preferred embodiments below, the accompanying drawings forming a part of the present invention will be referred to. The accompanying drawings illustrate the particular embodiments which can carry out the present invention by way of example; however, the exemplary embodiments are not intended to exhaust all the embodiments according to the present invention. It would be understood that other embodiments may be applied, or structural or logical modifications may also be made, without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the following particular description is not limiting, and the scope of the present invention would rather be defined by the appended claims.
In the following description, the accompanying drawings will be referred. The accompanying drawings form a part of the present invention and illustrate the particular embodiments which can implement the invention by way of example. In this respect, the directional terms, such as "left", "right", "top", "bottom", "front", "rear", "guiding", "forward", "backward", etc, are used by referring to the directions shown in the figures. Therefore, the components used in the embodiments of the present invention can be disposed in various directions, and the directional terms would rather be for the purpose of exemplification than limiting. It would be understood that other embodiments may be applicable, or structural or logical modifications may also be made, without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the following particular description is not limiting, and the scope of the present invention would rather be defined by the appended claims.
Fig. 1 illustrates a device 100 for monitoring water supply equipment of an embodiment according to the present invention. The device 100 is used to monitor the water condition in the water supply equipment and send the detected water condition to the user for reference. In some embodiments, the water supply unit 10 may be, for example, a water purification unit, a solar water heater, an electric water heater or other suitable equipment. The water supply unit 10 is connected to a water outlet 14 by a water outlet pipe and supplies water via the water outlet 14.
As shown in Fig. 1, the device 100 comprises a detecting module 101 and a monitoring module 103, The detecting module 101 and the monitoring module 103 are coupled with each other via wireless connection, wherein the detecting module 101 is disposed on the water supply equipment 10, and the detecting unit 101 comprises: a sensing unit 105 for detecting the water condition in the water supply equipment 10; a signal processing unit 107 electrically connected to the sensing unit 105 for processing the water condition provided by the sensing unit 105; and a first wireless communication unit 109 electrically connected to the signal processing unit 107 for transmitting the processed water condition result; the monitoring module 103 is disposed outside the water supply equipment 10 for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module 101 and displaying the same.
In particular, the sensing unit 105 may comprise one or more of a temperature sensor, a flow rate sensor, a humidity sensor, a liquid level sensor, a pH sensor, a pressure sensor and/or a conductivity sensor. These sensors are used respectively to detect the physical or chemical properties of the water, i.e. the water condition, in the water supply equipment 10. In some cases, the water supply equipment 10 may comprise a water tank (not shown) that is used to store and/or treat water. Accordingly, the sensing unit 105, such as a temperature sensor, a liquid level sensor, a pH sensor may be disposed in the water tank of the water supply equipment 10, for example, at the bottom, or on the sides of the water tank. In some other cases, the sensing unit 105, such as a pressure sensor, a flow rate sensor and/or a conductivity sensor, etc may be disposed in a water outlet pipe 12 that is connected with the water supply equipment 10 for detecting the physical properties of the flowing water.
In actual use, a change of the water condition in the water supply equipment 10 may indicate the running state of the water supply equipment 10. For example, in some cases, the water supply equipment 10 is water purification equipment. The water purification equipment may comprise a filtration module disposed in the water tank or the water outlet pipe. Due to some factors, for example, a long period of time in use, the filtration module may be partly clogged, which would result in a raised water pressure or a reduced flow rate in the water outlet pipe. Accordingly, the change of water pressure or flow rate may be detected by the sensing unit 105 and thereby indicating the running state of the filtration module. In some other cases, the water supply equipment 10 is, for example, a solar water heater. The solar water heater comprises a water tank mounted outdoors with a heat collector. By disposing the sensing unit 105 in the water tank, the water temperature, the water level or other characteristics can be detected to determine the running state of the water inlet means or heat collector of the water tank. In actual use, the way for determining the running state of the water supply equipment by the water condition is not only simple, effective, but also convenient for the user to observe.
After the water condition are detected, the sensing unit 105 will generate a water condition result reflecting the change of the water condition and provides the signal processing unit 107 with the same. In some cases, the signal processing unit 107 may further comprise a signal receiving subunit (not shown) for receiving the water condition result provided by the sensing unit 105 and having the water condition result pretreated. It would be understood that the water condition result may be an analog signal or a digital signal. Where the water condition result is an analog signal, the signal receiving subunit may be an analog signal amplifying and filtering circuit for amplifying the signal of the water condition result and filtering the same to remove the noise signal or interference signal contained therein. Where the water condition result is a digital signal, the signal receiving subunit may be, for example, a digital signal receiving circuit.
In some cases, the signal processing unit 107 may be disposed in the water supply equipment 10, for example, integrated with the sensing unit 105. In some other cases, the signal processing unit 107 may also be disposed outside the water supply equipment 10, for example, located on the exterior of the water tank or the water outlet pipe and coupled to the sensing unit 105 of the water supply equipment 10 by a signal wire passing through the water supply equipment 10. In actual use, the water condition result may change in a consecutive way with the running of the water supply equipment 10, and the sensing unit 105 may be configured to collect a plurality of samples in a certain period of time, and a plurality of result values may be generated. Accordingly, the signal processing unit 107 may determine the water condition according to the plurality of result values corresponding to the certain period of time. For example, the signal processing unit 107 may apply a method of averaging or other statistical methods to process the plurality of result values and generate a processed water condition result. It would be understood that the signal processing unit 107 may be comprised of one or more circuits, a special integrated circuit, a programmable logic array, a programmable processor, a field programmable gate array or other suitable means.
After the signal processing unit 107 has finished the processing of the water condition result, it will provide the first wireless communication unit 109 with the processed water condition result. The first wireless communication unit 109 may comprise one or more of a bluetooth communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, a 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication unit or a wireless internet communication unit such that the detecting module can communicate and exchange data with the monitoring module 103 via the corresponding wireless connections.
It should be noted that, in actual use, the detecting module 101 disposed on the water supply equipment 10 may further comprise a power supply unit (not shown) for receiving power and supplying the power to other units of the detecting module 101. Accordingly, in some cases, the power supply may use a battery which can be readily integrated as a whole with the detecting unit 101 and disposed on the water supply equipment 10. In some other cases, the power supply may also be an alternating current (AC) which can be supplied to the detecting module 101 via a power transmission line.
The monitoring module 103 is disposed outside the water supply equipment 10 for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module 101 and displaying the same. In some cases, the monitoring module 103 may be encapsulated in a mobile casing and powered by a battery. In this way, the monitoring module 103 may be taken to different places as per the needs of a user, which is extremely convenient to the user.
Fig. 2 illustrates an example of the monitoring module 103 of the device 100 for monitoring the water supply equipment of Fig. 1.
As shown in Fig. 2, the monitoring module 103 may comprise a second wireless communication unit 201, a control unit 203 and a display unit 205, wherein the second wireless communication unit 201 is used to receive the processed water condition result from the detecting module; the control unit 203 is electrically connected to the second wireless communication unit 201 and used to control the display of the processed water condition result on the display unit 205.
The second wireless communication unit 201 is a communication unit matching the first wireless communication unit such that the second wireless communication unit 201 is adapted to receiving the data transmitted by the first wireless communication unit, and/or transmitting data to the first wireless communication unit. For example, the second wireless communication unit 201 may comprise one or more of a bluetooth communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, a 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication unit or a wireless internet communication unit. The display unit 205 may be a light emitting diode nixie tube, a liquid crystal display or other suitable display components. For example, the processed water condition result may be a series of values, and accordingly, the control unit 203 may control to display these values on the display unit 205. 1 would be understood that, in some cases, the second wireless communication unit 201 may have one or more wireless channels wherein each of the wireless channels can be in wireless communication with a different detecting module. In this way, the monitoring module may be used to monitor one or more water supply equipment.
In some cases, the control unit 203 may also be used to compare the processed water condition result with a predetermined water condition reference range and provide the display unit 205 with the result of the comparison. In actual use, the predetermined water condition reference rang may be stored in the control unit 203, or a memory unit (not shown) connected with the control unit 203. For example, in case that the processed water condition result is within the predetermined water condition reference range, the control unit 203 may, based on the result of comparison, generate a signal indicating that the water supply equipment is running in a normal state. However, in case that the processed water condition result goes beyond the predetermined water condition reference range, the control unit 203 may, based on the result of comparison, generate a signal indicating that the water supply equipment is running in an abnormal state, and instruct the display unit 205 to display the signal to remind the user. Further, the control unit 203 may also provide the second wireless communication unit 201 with the result of comparison when the water condition result goes beyond the water condition reference range, and the second wireless communication unit 201 will send the result of comparison out. For example, the control unit 203 may send the result of comparison to a control means on the water supply equipment to control the operation of the same. Alternatively, the control unit 203 may send the result of comparison to a management server of the water supply equipment managed, for example, by the equipment provider or a maintenance service provider to remind that the water supply equipment is running in an abnormal state, or needs an overhaul.
It would be understood that, in some other cases, the monitoring module may further comprise, for example, a speaker or other reminders. These reminders output the processed water condition result under the control of the control unit 203 to remind the running state of the water supply equipment.
Fig. 3 illustrates an example displayed by the display unit 205 shown in Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 3, the processed water condition result displayed on the display unit comprises water temperature, water pressure, flow rate, the water level, etc. Additionally, the display unit may also display information in respect of the power supply status and run time of the detecting module.
In some cases, the detecting module may be designed as a special circuit module having a function of wireless communication. In some other cases, the detecting module may be integrated, in a form of software application program, into some universal calculating devices, such as a mobile communication terminal, a computer, or the like. These devices comprise a wireless communication unit corresponding to the way of wireless communication of the detecting module (for example, a bluetooth communication unit, a wireless network communication unit, etc), and a control unit (for example, a microprocessor) and a display unit, such as a display screen or a display means).
Fig. 4 illustrates water purification equipment 40 and a device 400 for monitoring the same according to another embodiment of the present invention. The water purification equipment 40 is an equipment for carrying out water purification treatment by, for example, filtration, ultraviolet irradiation or other suitable ways.
As shown in Fig. 4, the water purification equipment 40 is connected to a water outlet 44 via a water outlet pipe 42 and supplies water via the water outlet 44. The monitoring device 400 comprises a detecting module 401 and a monitoring module 403. The detecting module 401 and the monitoring module 403 are coupled with each other via wireless connection, wherein the detecting module 401 is disposed on the water outlet or the water outlet pipe of the water supply equipment 40, and the detecting unit 401 comprises: a sensing unit 405 for detecting the water condition in the water supply equipment 40; a signal processing unit 407 electrically connected to the sensing unit 405 for processing the water condition provided by the sensing unit 405; and a first wireless communication unit 409 electrically connected to the signal processing unit 407 for transmitting the processed water condition result; the monitoring module 403 is disposed outside the water purification equipment 40 for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module 401 and displaying the same.
In particular, the sensing unit 405 may comprise one or more of a temperature sensor, a flow rate sensor, a humidity sensor, a liquid level sensor, a pH sensor, a pressure sensor and/or a conductivity sensor. These sensors are used respectively to detect the physical or chemical properties of the water, i.e. the water condition, in the water purification equipment 40.
In actual use, a change of the water condition in the water purification equipment 40 may indicate the running state of the water purification equipment 40. For example, the water purification equipment 40 may comprise a filtration module disposed in the water tank or the water outlet pipe. Due to some factors, for example, a long period of time in use, the filtration module may be partly clogged, which would result in a raised water pressure or a reduced flow rate in the water outlet pipe. Accordingly, the change of water pressure or flow rate may be detected by the sensing unit 405 and thereby indicating the running state of the filtration module.
In actual use, the water condition may change in a consecutive way with the running of the water purification equipment 40, and the sensing unit 405 may be configured to collect a plurality of samples in a certain period of time and a plurality of result values may be generated. Accordingly, the signal processing unit 407 may determine the water condition of the water purification equipment 40 according to the plurality of result values corresponding to the certain period of time. For example, the signal processing unit 407 may apply a method of averaging or other statistical methods to process the plurality of result values and generate a processed water condition result. It would be understood that the signal processing unit 407 may be comprised of one or more circuits, a special integrated circuit, a programmable logic array, a programmable processor, a field programmable gate array or other suitable means.
After the signal processing unit 407 has finished the processing of the water condition result, it will provide the first wireless communication unit 409 with the processed water condition result. The first wireless communication unit 409 may comprise one or more of a bluetooth communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, a 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication unit or a wireless internet communication unit such that the detecting module can communicate and exchange data with the monitoring module 403 via the corresponding wireless connections.
The monitoring module 403 is disposed outside the water purification device 40 for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module 401 and displaying the same. In some cases, the monitoring module 403 may be encapsulated in a mobile casing and powered by a battery. In this way, the monitoring module 403 may be taken to different places as per the needs of a user, which is extremely convenient to the user.
In particular, the monitoring module 403 may comprise a second wireless communication unit 411, a control unit 413 and a display unit 415, wherein the second wireless communication unit 411 is used to receive the processed water condition result from the detecting module; the control unit 413 is electrically connected to the second wireless communication unit 411 and used to control the display of the processed water condition result on the display unit 415.
Additionally, the second wireless communication unit 411 is a communication unit matching the first wireless communication unit such that the second wireless communication unit 411 is adapted to receiving the data transmitted by the first wireless communication unit and/or transmitting data to the first wireless communication unit. For example, the second wireless communication unit 411 may comprise one or more of a bluetooth communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, a 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication unit or a wireless internet communication unit. The display unit 415 may be a light emitting diode nixie tube, a liquid crystal display or other suitable display components. For example, the processed water condition result may be a series of values, and accordingly, the control unit 413 may control to display these values on the display unit 415.
In some cases, the control unit 413 may also be used to compare the processed water condition result with a predetermined water condition reference range and provide the display unit 415 with the result of comparison. In actual use, the predetermined water condition reference range may be stored in the control unit 413, or a memory unit (not shown) connected with the control unit 413. For example, in case that the processed water condition result is within the predetermined water condition reference range, the control unit 413 may, based on the result of comparison, generate a signal indicating that the water purification unit is running in a normal state. However, in case that the processed water condition result goes beyond the predetermined water condition reference range, the control unit 413 may, based on the result of comparison, generate a signal indicating that the water purification equipment is running in an abnormal state, and instruct the display unit 415 to display the signal to remind the user. Further, the control unit 413 may also provide the second wireless communication unit 411 with the result of comparison when the water condition result goes beyond the water condition reference range, and the second wireless communication unit 411 will send the result of comparison out. For example, the control unit 413 may send the result of comparison to a control means on the water purification equipment to control the operation of the same. Alternatively, the control unit 413 may send the result of comparison to a management server of the water purification equipment 40 managed, for example, by the equipment provider or a maintenance service provider to remind that the water purification equipment is running in an abnormal state, or needs an overhaul.
In actual use, generally, the water purification equipment 40 is installed in, for example, a kitchen. Accordingly, the detecting module 401 is also disposed in the kitchen. Since the detecting module 401 is connected with the monitoring module 403 by wireless communication, the monitoring module 403 may be disposed in a place away from the water purification equipment 40, such as in a bedroom, a living room or somewhere outdoors, and can be moved with a user. This facilitates the user to have access to the water condition information in a timely manner, even if the user is far away from the water purification equipment 40, and determine the running state of water purification equipment 40, which is extremely convenient for the user to use and overhaul the same.
Fig. 5 illustrates a solar water heater 50 and a device 500 for monitoring the same according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in Fig. 5, the solar water heater 50 is connected to a water outlet 54 via a water outlet pipe 52 and supplies water via the water outlet 54. The monitoring device 500 comprises a detecting module 501 and a monitoring module 503. The detecting module 501 and the monitoring module 503 are coupled with each other via wireless connection, wherein the detecting module 501 is disposed on the water tank of the solar water heater 50, and the detecting unit 501 comprises: a sensing unit 505 for detecting the water condition in the tank; a signal processing unit 507 electrically connected to the sensing unit 505 for processing the water condition provided by the sensing unit 505; and a first wireless communication unit 509 electrically connected to the signal processing unit 507 for transmitting the processed water condition result; the monitoring module 503 is disposed outside the solar water heater 50 for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module 501 and displaying the same.
In particular, the sensing unit 505 may comprise one or more of a temperature sensor, a flow rate sensor, a humidity sensor, a liquid level sensor, a pH sensor, a pressure sensor and/or a conductivity sensor. These sensors are used respectively to detect the physical or chemical properties of the water, i.e. the water condition, in the solar water heater 50. Generally, the water tank of the solar water heater comprises a heat collector. By the sensing unit 505 disposed on the water tank, such as inside the water tank or on a side wall of the water tank, the water temperature, water level or other characteristics can be detected. In actual use, this way for determining the running state of water supply equipment using the water condition thereof is not only more simple and effective, but also convenient for a user to observe.
In actual use, the water condition may change in a consecutive way with the running of the solar water heater 50, and the sensing unit 505 may be configured to collect a plurality of samples in a certain period of time and a plurality of result values may be generated. Accordingly, the signal processing unit 507 may determine the water condition of the solar water heater 50 according to the plurality of result values corresponding to the certain period of time and thus determine the running state of the solar water heater 50. For example, the signal processing unit 507 may apply a method of averaging or other statistical methods to process the plurality of result values and generate a processed water condition result. It would be understood that the signal processing unit 507 may be comprised of one or more circuits, a special integrated circuit, a programmable logic array, a programmable processor, a field programmable gate array or other suitable means.
After the signal processing unit 507 has finished the processing of the water condition result, it will provide the first wireless communication unit 509 with the processed water condition result. The first wireless communication unit 509 may comprise one or more of a bluetooth communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, a 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication unit or a wireless internet communication unit such that the detecting module can communicate and exchange data with the monitoring module 503 via the corresponding wireless connections.
The monitoring module 503 is disposed outside the solar water heater 50 for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module 501 and displaying the same. In some cases, the monitoring module 503 may be encapsulated in a mobile casing and powered by a battery. In this way, the monitoring module 503 may be taken to different places as per the needs of a user, which is extremely convenient to the user.
In particular, the monitoring module 503 may comprise a second wireless communication unit 511, a control unit 513 and a display unit 515, wherein the second wireless communication unit 511 is used to receive the processed water condition result from the detecting module; the control unit 513 is electrically connected to the second wireless communication unit 511 and used to control the display of the processed water condition result on the display unit 515.
Additionally, the second wireless communication unit 511 is a communication unit matching the first wireless communication unit such that the second wireless communication unit 511 is adapted to receiving the data transmitted by the first wireless communication unit and/or transmitting data to the first wireless communication unit. For example, the second wireless communication unit 511 may comprise one or more of a bluetooth communication unit, a ZigBee communication unit, a 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication unit or a wireless internet communication unit. The display unit 515 may be a light emitting diode nixie tube, a liquid crystal display or other suitable display components. For example, the processed water condition result may be a series of values, and accordingly, the control unit 513 may control to display these values on the display unit 515.
In some cases, the control unit 513 may also be used to compare the processed water condition result with a predetermined water condition reference range and provide the display unit 515 with the result of comparison. In actual use, the predetermined water condition reference range may be stored in the control unit 513, or a memory unit (not shown) connected with the control unit 513. For example, in case that the processed water condition result is within the predetermined water condition reference range, the control unit 513 may, based on the result of comparison, generate a signal indicating that the water purification equipment is running in a normal state. However, in case that the processed water condition result goes beyond the predetermined water condition reference range, the control unit 513 may, based on the result of comparison, generate a signal indicating that the water purification equipment is running in an abnormal state, and instruct the display unit 515 to display the signal to remind the user. Further, the control unit 513 may also provide the second wireless communication unit 511 with the result of comparison when the water condition result goes beyond the water condition reference range, and the second wireless communication unit 511 will send the result of comparison out. For example, the control unit 513 may send the result of comparison to a control means on the water purification equipment to control the operation of the same. Alternatively, the control unit 513 may send the result of comparison to a management server of the solar water heater 50 managed, for example, by the equipment provider or a maintenance service provider to remind that the solar water heater is running in an abnormal state, or needs an overhaul.
In actual use, generally, the solar water heater 50 is installed in, for example, outdoors, or on the top of a building. Accordingly, the detecting module 501 is also disposed outdoors. Since the detecting module 501 is connected with the monitoring module 503 by a wireless communication, the monitoring module 503 may be disposed in a place away from the solar water heater 50, such as indoors, or taken by a the user. This facilitates the user to have access to the water condition information in a timely manner, and determine the running state of the solar water heater 50, which is extremely convenient for the user to use and overhaul the same.
Although the present invention has been illustrated and described in the drawings and the preceding description, it should be understood that the illustration and description is just illustrative and exemplary but not limiting. The present invention would not be limited to the above embodiments.
Those of ordinary skill in the art would understand and implement other modifications to the embodiments disclosed herein by studying the description, the disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In the claims, the wording "comprise" shall not exclude other components or steps, and the wording "a" or "an" shall not exclude the plural. In the actual use of the present invention, a component may be used to implement the functions of multiple technical features referenced in the claims. Any reference numbers contained in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:
1. A device for monitoring water supply equipment, wherein the device comprises a detecting module and a monitoring module, the detecting module and the monitoring module being coupled with each other via wireless connection, wherein the detecting module is disposed on the water supply equipment, the detecting module comprising:
a sensing unit for detecting the water condition in the water supply equipment;
a signal processing unit electrically connected to the sensing unit for processing the water condition provided by the sensing unit; and
a first wireless communication unit electrically connected to the signal processing unit for transmitting the processed water condition result;
the monitoring module is disposed outside the water supply equipment for receiving the processed water condition result from the detecting module and displaying the same.
2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the sensing unit comprises a temperature sensor, a flow rate sensor, a humidity sensor, a liquid level sensor, a pH sensor, a pressure sensor and/or a conductivity sensor.
3. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the monitoring module comprises a second wireless communication unit, a control unit and a display unit, wherein the second wireless communication unit is used to receive the processed water condition result from the detecting module; the control unit is electrically connected to the second wireless communication unit and the display unit, and used to control the display of the processed water condition result on the display unit.
4. The device according to claim 3, wherein the control unit is used to compare the processed water condition result with a predetermined water condition reference range and provide the display unit with the result of comparison.
5. The device according to claim 4, wherein the control unit is used to transmit the result of comparison via the second wireless communication unit when the processed water condition result goes beyond the predetermined water condition reference range.
6. The device according to claim 1, wherein the way of wireless communication comprises bluetooth communication, ZigBee communication, 450 M to 5.6 G short distance communication or wireless internet communication.
7. Water purification equipment comprising the device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.
8. A solar water heater comprising the device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.
PCT/US2013/036521 2012-04-16 2013-04-15 Device for monitoring water supply equipment, water purification equipment and solar water heater WO2013158515A1 (en)

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