WO2020264452A1 - Systèmes et procédés de commande de puisard de sous-sol - Google Patents

Systèmes et procédés de commande de puisard de sous-sol Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2020264452A1
WO2020264452A1 PCT/US2020/040022 US2020040022W WO2020264452A1 WO 2020264452 A1 WO2020264452 A1 WO 2020264452A1 US 2020040022 W US2020040022 W US 2020040022W WO 2020264452 A1 WO2020264452 A1 WO 2020264452A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
controller
sump
sump pump
basement
communication
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2020/040022
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Stephen Andras
Original Assignee
Dni Realty, Llc
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
Application filed by Dni Realty, Llc filed Critical Dni Realty, Llc
Priority to CA3145525A priority Critical patent/CA3145525A1/fr
Priority to US17/623,413 priority patent/US20220349398A1/en
Publication of WO2020264452A1 publication Critical patent/WO2020264452A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04B—POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
    • F04B49/00—Control, e.g. of pump delivery, or pump pressure of, or safety measures for, machines, pumps, or pumping installations, not otherwise provided for, or of interest apart from, groups F04B1/00 - F04B47/00
    • F04B49/02—Stopping, starting, unloading or idling control
    • F04B49/025—Stopping, starting, unloading or idling control by means of floats
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04B—POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
    • F04B49/00—Control, e.g. of pump delivery, or pump pressure of, or safety measures for, machines, pumps, or pumping installations, not otherwise provided for, or of interest apart from, groups F04B1/00 - F04B47/00
    • F04B49/04—Regulating by means of floats
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04B—POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
    • F04B17/00—Pumps characterised by combination with, or adaptation to, specific driving engines or motors
    • F04B17/03—Pumps characterised by combination with, or adaptation to, specific driving engines or motors driven by electric motors
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04B—POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
    • F04B23/00—Pumping installations or systems
    • F04B23/02—Pumping installations or systems having reservoirs
    • F04B23/021—Pumping installations or systems having reservoirs the pump being immersed in the reservoir
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04B—POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
    • F04B49/00—Control, e.g. of pump delivery, or pump pressure of, or safety measures for, machines, pumps, or pumping installations, not otherwise provided for, or of interest apart from, groups F04B1/00 - F04B47/00
    • F04B49/06—Control using electricity

Definitions

  • At least one embodiment of the present invention relates generally to devices and methods for basement waterproofing and, more particularly, to basement sump control systems and methods for use in waterproofing.
  • Basement foundation footings are typically located several feet below ground level, and water may accumulate around the foundation as the groundwater level periodically rises, for example, due to rain or melting snow. As a result, hydrostatic pressure may build causing leakage at cracks in the footings, structural interfaces, and through the floor. Concrete, typically used in the construction of foundations, attracts groundwater by sorption, and capillary forces in the concrete pores facilitate further penetration of the groundwater. Seepage of groundwater into a basement can cause significant structural damage, as well as promote the growth of harmful bacteria, such as iron bacteria. Furthermore, dangerous radon gas, and water vapors contributing to a high basement humidity level, can flow easily through the concrete pores.
  • Such systems have been developed to address problems with moisture in basements.
  • Such systems typically include a drainage conduit installed along the interior perimeter of the basement, positioned below the basement floor and in close proximity to the foundation wall.
  • the drainage conduit serves to collect and convey groundwater to a basement sump for extraction.
  • the sump is a sub-floor water collection zone positioned at the lowest point of the basement, often in a comer, so that groundwater naturally drains towards it.
  • a sump pump is typically housed in a sump liner to discharge groundwater.
  • a basement sump control system may comprise a sump pump, and a controller in communication with the sump pump.
  • the controller may be configured to monitor an operational parameter of the sump pump, and override a switch associated with the sump pump to maintain operation of the sump pump in response to the monitored operational parameter registering an abnormal condition.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a sump system installed as part of a basement waterproofing system in accordance with one or more embodiments
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a sump control system installed as part of a basement waterproofing system in accordance with one or more embodiments.
  • the present invention relates generally to an improved basement sump system for use in basement waterproofing.
  • the sump system may be effective in collecting and discharging groundwater to a remote location in order to prevent penetration of the basement structure.
  • the sump system may be installed within a sump hole in various foundation configurations, typically in close proximity to a foundation wall such as in a comer of a basement or along a straight wall.
  • the sump system may be installed generally so as to promote the flow of groundwater towards the sump system, for example, at the lowest point in a basement floor.
  • disclosed systems and methods may provide protection against moisture, mold, mildew, water, basement flooding, and poor air quality.
  • Basements and basement waterproofing systems may be monitored and controlled to protect against flooding due to sump pump failures.
  • Sump pump system dependability may be improved.
  • the function and/or status of sump pump systems may be monitored and/or controlled.
  • Basement conditions may also be monitored and/or controlled.
  • Various parameters may be monitored, problems may be detected, and related feedback may be relayed. Corrective and/or preventative action may be taken.
  • high water level detection and alerts may be provided.
  • sump pump system self-diagnostics may be provided.
  • sump pump control override may be provided. Battery backup status may be provided.
  • the system may be configured to communicate wirelessly over the Internet, and electronic alerts, i.e. e-mail, may be provided.
  • the system may be further configured to continuously operate in the background and may provide for safeguarding regardless of whether or not a dwelling is occupied.
  • a level sensor may detect high water, sound an audible alarm, and/or send a notification indicating that there is a problem.
  • the system may be overridden allowing the sump pump(s) to run
  • a notification may be provided indicating that there is a problem and that the system has been overridden.
  • Self-diagnostics may be continuous or periodic and issues may be reported.
  • monitored parameters may include the sump pump(s) being powered on and exercised to verify proper operation. Sump pump life expectancy may be measured, calculated, and reported. Backup batteries may be tested to confirm proper voltage and power. System power and communication capabilities may be verified.
  • a mobile interface may be provided. Alerts may be sent to one or more pre-selected users including owners, occupants, and/or service providers.
  • the disclosed systems and methods may be particularly desirable, for example, in connection with second homes and/or rental properties in order to safeguard and protect real estate investments.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a sump system 100 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention positioned in a basement having a basement floor 200, a foundation wall 210 and a foundation footing 220.
  • the sump system 100 may be installed as part of a basement waterproofing system which may, for example, include a drainage conduit 230 disposed along a perimeter of the basement to collect, channel and convey groundwater.
  • the drainage conduit 230 may be fluidly connected to the sump system 100, such as by a conduit port 235, to facilitate collection and discharge of groundwater from the basement.
  • the conduit 230 may be
  • the waterproofing system may further include a flange 240 to aid in directing groundwater to the drainage conduit 230.
  • the flange 240 may be implemented using a flange as described in U.S. Patent No. 8,596 002 to Andras which is also hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
  • the sump system may generally include a sump pump housed within a sump liner.
  • Typical sump pumps commonly known to those in the art may be implemented in the present invention, for example, a pedestal or submersible sump pump.
  • the sump pump is often an electric or water-powered device capable of delivering accumulated water from the interior of the sump liner to outside the building structure via associated discharge piping.
  • the sump pump may remove collected ground water to a remote dry well or storm drain.
  • the discharge piping may comprise one and one-half inch polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic piping.
  • PVC polyvinyl chloride
  • the sump pump typically has a float-activated switch to automatically maintain a fluid within the sump liner below a
  • the sump system may also contain a backup sump pump, sometimes battery powered, in addition to a primary sump pump for further protection.
  • the sump liner may be as described in U.S. Patent No. 7,788,877 to Andras which is also hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
  • a basement sump control system may include a sump pump and a controller in communication with the sump pump.
  • the controller may be positioned proximate to or distant form the sump pump.
  • the controller may be positioned in the sump along with the sump pump. In other embodiments, the controller may be positioned remotely.
  • the controller may be configured to monitor an operational parameter of the sump pump.
  • the controller may be further configured to override a switch associated with the sump pump, i.e. a float-activated switch, to maintain operation of the sump pump in response to the monitored operational parameter registering an abnormal condition.
  • the controller may therefore be configured to send a control signal to the sump pump for actuation thereof.
  • the controller may be connected to a source of alternating current (AC) power.
  • the system may further comprise a backup battery for the controller.
  • the sump pump may likewise be connected to a source of AC power and/or backup battery.
  • the system may include one or more sensors.
  • the system may include at least one water level sensor. Temperature and/or humidity sensors may also be included in the system.
  • the controller may be in communication with one or more of the various sensors.
  • the controller may be in communication with first and/or second water level sensors.
  • the controller may be configured to process data from the sensor and to generate a related control signal as described herein.
  • the operational parameter may be monitored periodically. In other embodiments, the operational parameter may be monitored continuously.
  • Various operational parameters may be monitored by the controller.
  • a sump water level may be monitored.
  • the abnormal condition to be monitored for may pertain to a high sump water level.
  • a predetermined water level may constitute a high water level threshold. Placement of the sensor may be related to the predetermined water level threshold value.
  • a high water level may be indicative of sump pump malfunction.
  • the controller may override the sump pump switch to actuate the sump pump. In this way, water damage may be prevented until proper sump pump operation can be resumed.
  • a monitored operational parameter may pertain to an on/off status or transient, surge, or average current draw of the sump pump.
  • the monitored operational parameter may pertain to a sump pump’s total hours or total cycles of operation.
  • the controller may be further configured to determine a life expectancy of the sump pump. For example, by monitoring its voltage and/or amperage, the life expectancy may be predicted in that a sump pump will tend to use more energy as it ages towards failure.
  • the controller may be configured to perform a diagnostic test. The diagnostic test may be performed periodically or continuously.
  • the diagnostic test may be performed weekly.
  • the diagnostic test may relate to the controller’s functioning and/or communication capability.
  • the diagnostic test may involve an exercise of the sump pump.
  • the diagnostic test may pertain to evaluating power to the controller and/or sump pump, i.e. the AC system power and/or backup battery may be monitored.
  • the controller may report various results associated with the diagnostic test. For example, the controller may provide an indication of battery status and/or battery voltage.
  • Any one, two, three, or more of the above-mentioned functions can be performed by the controller, either continuously or periodically.
  • the controller may be connected to a local area network (LAN).
  • the controller may be configured to operate over a wireless network.
  • the controller may generally be configured to communicate regarding the status of at least one system component or operational parameter.
  • the controller may output a notification in response to registering an abnormal condition, i.e. a high water level or a power issue.
  • the controller may also output a notification in response to overriding the sump pump switch.
  • the notification may be provided electronically.
  • the notification may be communicated to a smart phone, tablet, or web page interface.
  • the notification may be directed to a property owner or tenant.
  • the notification might be directed to a maintenance technician.
  • the system may include an alarm, i.e. an audible or visual alarm.
  • the controller may be configured to generate an alarm signal in response to detecting an abnormal condition.
  • the controller may be configured to generate an alarm signal in response to detecting a high water level or low power level.
  • the controller may include various additional features.
  • the controller may include a reset feature.
  • the controller may include a reset feature.
  • the controller may include a silence feature.
  • the system may include at least one temperature sensor in
  • a temperature sensor may be configured to monitor an internal basement temperature.
  • a temperature sensor may be configured to monitor an external environmental temperature.
  • the controller may be configured to actuate a fan, for example, responsive to the temperature sensor.
  • the system may include at least one humidity sensor in communication with the controller.
  • a monitored humidity level may relate to an inside humidity condition, an outside humidity condition, or both.
  • the controller may be configured to actuate a fan or vent responsive to the humidity sensor.
  • the system may include a basement fan, a basement vent, and/or a basement dehumidifier, each of which may be in communication with the controller which, in turn, may be in communication with relevant associated sensors.
  • the controller may be configured to monitor an operational condition of one or more of any fan, vent, and dehumidifier. For example, a basement fan’s total hours or total cycles of operation may be monitored and reported.
  • controller may be configured to operate one or more system
  • Humidity levels may also likewise be controlled. It may generally be considered desirable to refresh and/or circulate air in the basement environment continuously or periodically.
  • the controller may be configured to actuate a basement fan or vent to exhaust air if an outside humidity level is below a threshold level, e.g. about 50% or less.
  • the controller may be further configured to actuate the basement fan to refresh air regardless of an outside humidity level.
  • a fan or vent may be actuated for a period of a few hours, e.g. one, two, three, four, five or more hours if the humidity level has been above a threshold level, e.g. about 50% or more for a predetermined period of time, i.e. 72 hours. In this way, proper circulation can be ensured.
  • Controller 250 may be in communication with sump pump 260.
  • Controller 250 may include sensors, e.g. inside humidity and/or temperature sensors. Controller 250 may also be in communication with various external sensors, e.g. outside humidity and/or temperature sensors. Controller 250 may be in communication with one or more level sensors 270. In response to level sensor 270 detecting an abnormal condition, i.e. a high water level, controller 250 may send an actuation control signal to sump pump 260. The actuation control signal may override a switch of the sump pump 260. The override may continue until a service call can be placed. Controller 250 may be provided with AC and/or DC power. The system may also include a backup battery. Controller 250 may also be in communication with a basement fan as described herein.
  • Controller 250 may have an alarm, such as may involve a speaker.
  • the overall system may include one, two, or more sump pumps and associated level sensors as illustrated.
  • the controller 250 may be configured to transmit reports, alerts, and/or communications, e.g. via e- mail notifications. These may be provided over the internet, such as via a wireless network.
  • Data can be transmitted to a smart phone, tablet, or web page interface.
  • various system diagnostics may be run and reported periodically or continuously as described herein. Battery backup status, sump pump life expectancy, sump pump on/off status, sump pump current draw, sump pump total hours or cycles, fan total hours or cycles, battery voltage may all be monitored and reported. Related alerts and/or alarms may be provided as desired.
  • the system is generally failsafe and can operate without power to the controller.
  • the system may include a second sump pump, wherein the controller is in communication with both sump pumps.
  • backup sump pumps have been described as accompanying a primary sump pump in a single sump liner, it is also envisioned that two or more sump systems may function in a network.
  • two or more sump liners may be installed in close proximity and may be fluidly connected to each other.
  • a sump pump housed in one sump liner may serve as a backup for a sump pump positioned in another sump liner.
  • a sump kit may be provided for assembly of a sump control system in accordance with one or more embodiments.
  • the sump kit may include a sump liner and one or more sump pumps.
  • Various sensors may be provided.
  • a controller as described herein can be provided.
  • a mobile interface can be provided. Instructions for installation and/or use may be provided.
  • Associated discharge piping may be provided.
  • a backup sump pump may also be provided to impart additional protection.
  • Existing sump systems may be retrofitted in accordance with one or more embodiments.
  • a controller and one or more sensors may be put into communication with an existing sump pump.
  • a new sump pump, controller, and/or sensors may be introduced to an existing sump liner.
  • Additional components, for example a drainage conduit, may also be installed as part of a retrofit application.
  • the term“plurality” refers to two or more items or components.
  • the terms“comprising,”“including,”“carrying,”“having,”“containing,” and“involving,” whether in the written description or the claims and the like, are open-ended terms, i.e., to mean “including but not limited to.” Thus, the use of such terms is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter, and equivalents thereof, as well as additional items. Only the transitional phrases“consisting of’ and“consisting essentially of,” are closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, with respect to the claims.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Control Of Positive-Displacement Pumps (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne des systèmes de commande de puisard de sous-sol. Un dispositif de commande peut surveiller un paramètre opérationnel d'une pompe de puisard, par exemple un niveau d'eau de puisard. Le dispositif de commande peut passer outre un commutateur associé à la pompe de puisard pour maintenir le fonctionnement de la pompe de puisard en réponse à l'enregistrement par un paramètre opérationnel surveillé d'une condition anormale, par exemple un niveau d'eau élevé.
PCT/US2020/040022 2019-06-28 2020-06-27 Systèmes et procédés de commande de puisard de sous-sol WO2020264452A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CA3145525A CA3145525A1 (fr) 2019-06-28 2020-06-27 Systemes et procedes de commande de puisard de sous-sol
US17/623,413 US20220349398A1 (en) 2019-06-28 2020-06-27 Basement sump control systems and methods

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201962868375P 2019-06-28 2019-06-28
US62/868,375 2019-06-28

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2020264452A1 true WO2020264452A1 (fr) 2020-12-30

Family

ID=74061367

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2020/040022 WO2020264452A1 (fr) 2019-06-28 2020-06-27 Systèmes et procédés de commande de puisard de sous-sol

Country Status (3)

Country Link
US (1) US20220349398A1 (fr)
CA (1) CA3145525A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2020264452A1 (fr)

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3800205A (en) * 1973-05-15 1974-03-26 Cutler Hammer Inc Sump pump control system
US6676382B2 (en) * 1999-11-19 2004-01-13 Campbell Hausfeld/Scott Fetzer Company Sump pump monitoring and control system
US20080031751A1 (en) * 2006-03-03 2008-02-07 Littwin Kenneth M Sump pump control system

Family Cites Families (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6322325B1 (en) * 1999-01-15 2001-11-27 Metropolitan Industries, Inc. Processor based pump control systems
US10634146B2 (en) * 2017-10-25 2020-04-28 SafeSump, Inc. Water pumping control device and system

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3800205A (en) * 1973-05-15 1974-03-26 Cutler Hammer Inc Sump pump control system
US6676382B2 (en) * 1999-11-19 2004-01-13 Campbell Hausfeld/Scott Fetzer Company Sump pump monitoring and control system
US20080031751A1 (en) * 2006-03-03 2008-02-07 Littwin Kenneth M Sump pump control system

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20220349398A1 (en) 2022-11-03
CA3145525A1 (fr) 2020-12-30

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