Inline Overflow Protection and Leak Detection System and Method
First Claim
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1. A computer based method for detecting an overflow event in a plumbing system comprising:
- receiving a signal at a computer representing whether a faucet is in an off position;
determining a flow rate of a liquid through the plumbing system coupled to the faucet;
determining if said flow rate exceeds a first flow rate threshold;
determining a first overflow event protocol representing a closing of a valve to prevent said liquid from flowing to said faucet; and
generating a control signal by the computer to implement said first overflow event protocol if said flow rate exceeds said first flow rate threshold.
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Abstract
A system and method for automatically detecting unwanted continuous flow of water or other liquids, either from intentional use or from a leak in the faucet/plumbing system and for automatically turning off the water faucet or dispensing apparatus when unwanted flow conditions are detected to prevent water from being wasted, overflowing and/or causing property damage.
30 Citations
14 Claims
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1. A computer based method for detecting an overflow event in a plumbing system comprising:
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receiving a signal at a computer representing whether a faucet is in an off position; determining a flow rate of a liquid through the plumbing system coupled to the faucet; determining if said flow rate exceeds a first flow rate threshold; determining a first overflow event protocol representing a closing of a valve to prevent said liquid from flowing to said faucet; and generating a control signal by the computer to implement said first overflow event protocol if said flow rate exceeds said first flow rate threshold. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
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8. A system for detecting an overflow event in a plumbing system comprising:
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a plumbing system having a faucet, a first flow sensor and a first valve; and an overflow detection system having a processor disposed to receive signals from said plumbing system, to receive a signal from said first faucet at a computer representing whether a faucet is in an off position, and to receive a signal from said first flow sensor representing a flow rate of a liquid through said plumbing system coupled to said faucet, wherein said overflow detection system determines if said flow rate exceeds a first flow rate threshold, determines a first overflow event protocol representing a closing of a valve to prevent said liquid from flowing to said faucet, and generates a control signal to implement said first overflow event protocol if said flow rate exceeds said first flow rate threshold. - View Dependent Claims (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14)
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Specification