U.S. patent application number 16/790585 was filed with the patent office on 2020-08-13 for fluid leak detection methods, systems and apparatus.
The applicant listed for this patent is DripDrone, Inc.. Invention is credited to Eric Davis, Vincent Douglas Powell.
Application Number | 20200258369 16/790585 |
Document ID | 20200258369 / US20200258369 |
Family ID | 1000004782402 |
Filed Date | 2020-08-13 |
Patent Application | download [pdf] |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200258369 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Davis; Eric ; et
al. |
August 13, 2020 |
FLUID LEAK DETECTION METHODS, SYSTEMS AND APPARATUS
Abstract
Embodiments disclosed herein relate to leak detection and
notification from fluid conduit systems, apparatus and methods. In
one aspect, embodiments relate to leak detection of water supply,
sewage system, and plumbing. In another aspect, embodiments of the
invention comprise an apparatus related to piping and plumbing
encapsulation for detecting leaks. In another aspect, certain
embodiments further comprise an apparatus that conform to piping
and plumbing features, for example, valves and connectors, for
detecting leaks that may be included as part of original
installations or added in retrofit applications. In other
embodiments, leak detection and notification systems may be
included as part of the manufacture of fixtures by a
manufacturer.
Inventors: |
Davis; Eric; (Lakewood,
CO) ; Powell; Vincent Douglas; (Westminster,
CO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
DripDrone, Inc. |
Denver |
CO |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000004782402 |
Appl. No.: |
16/790585 |
Filed: |
February 13, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15081868 |
Mar 26, 2016 |
10565848 |
|
|
16790585 |
|
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62138878 |
Mar 26, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G08B 21/18 20130101;
G01M 3/16 20130101; G01M 3/18 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G08B 21/18 20060101
G08B021/18; G01M 3/18 20060101 G01M003/18; G01M 3/16 20060101
G01M003/16 |
Claims
1. A method for detecting leaks in a fluid conduit system, the
fluid conduit system adjacent a surrounding structure, the fluid
conduit system being a residential or commercial plumbing system,
the method comprising: providing a leak detection apparatus
including a containment apparatus; sealing the leak detection
apparatus on a fluid conduit of the fluid conduit system such that
the fluid conduit passes through an opening in the containment
apparatus, the fluid conduit being at a low point of adjacent fluid
conduits of the fluid conduit system; capturing leaks from any
upward junctions/connections, wherein the leaks follow the
direction of fluid conduit and the adjacent fluid conduits and flow
into a fluid accumulation area associated with the containment
apparatus including a sloped aspect creating a captured fluid;
activating a sensor unit at a bottom of the sloped aspect to detect
the captured fluid; and activating an alarm associated with the
sensor unit to generate a notification.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the sealing includes using a
first and a second portion of the containment apparatus to surround
the fluid conduit and create the opening.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein the first and the second portion
each include a contour slidably engageable with a grooved portion
on a gasket such that the containment apparatus fastens to the
fluid conduit system.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the containment apparatus
includes a substantially circular sleeve including an aperture
through the approximate center of the sleeve to fit around the
fluid conduit system, the sleeve further comprising bellows to
expand the sleeve along the length of the fluid conduit system.
5. An apparatus for detecting leaks in a fluid conduit system, the
fluid conduit system adjacent a surrounding structure, the fluid
conduit system being a residential or commercial plumbing system,
the apparatus comprising: a containment apparatus having an
opening, the opening sealing the containment apparatus on a fluid
conduit of the fluid conduit system such that the fluid conduit
passes through the opening in the containment apparatus, the fluid
conduit being at a low point of adjacent fluid conduits of the
fluid conduit system and the containment apparatus captures leaks
from any upward junctions/connections, wherein the leaks follow the
direction of fluid conduit and the adjacent fluid conduits and flow
into a fluid accumulation area associated with the containment
apparatus including a sloped aspect creating a captured fluid; a
sensor unit at a bottom of the sloped aspect to detect the captured
fluid; and an alarm associated with the sensor unit to generate a
notification.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising: a gasket located
around the fluid conduit.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the containment apparatus
includes a first portion and a second portion, which slide onto the
gasket surrounding the fluid conduit engaging contours on the first
portion and the second portion with a grooved portion on the gasket
to sealingly engage the apparatus with the gasket and to sealingly
fasten the leak detection device to the fluid conduit.
8. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the containment apparatus
includes a substantially circular sleeve including an aperture
through the approximate center of the sleeve to fit around the
fluid conduit system, the sleeve further comprising bellows to
expand the sleeve along the length of the fluid conduit system.
9. A method for detecting leaks in a fluid conduit system, the
fluid conduit system adjacent a surrounding structure, the fluid
conduit system being a residential or commercial plumbing system,
the method comprising: providing a leak detection apparatus
including a containment apparatus, the containment apparatus
including an engagement portion defining an opening to contact and
at least partially surround the substantially horizontal portion of
the fluid conduit system; positioning the containment apparatus
beneath at least a substantially horizontal portion of a fluid
conduit system, the substantially horizontal portion being at a low
point of adjacent fluid conduits of the fluid conduit system;
engaging the substantially horizontal portion of the fluid conduit
system with the containment apparatus; capturing leaks from any
upward junctions/connections, wherein the leaks follow the
direction of fluid conduit and the adjacent fluid conduits and flow
into a fluid accumulation area associated with the containment
apparatus including a sloped aspect creating a captured fluid;
activating a sensor unit at a bottom of the sloped aspect to detect
the captured fluid; and activating an alarm associated with the
sensor unit to generate a notification.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the engaging includes engaging
the substantially horizontal portion of the fluid conduit system, a
first and a second semi-rigid protruding aspect to allow the
engagement portion itself and the first and second semi-rigid
protruding aspect to snap onto the substantially horizontal portion
of the fluid conduit system.
11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: fastening the
containment apparatus with a fastening mechanism to further affix
the container to the substantially horizontal portion of the fluid
conduit system.
12. A leak detection apparatus comprising: a containment apparatus
positioned beneath at least a substantially horizontal portion of a
fluid conduit system, the substantially horizontal portion being at
a low point of adjacent fluid conduits of the fluid conduit system,
the containment apparatus including an engagement portion defining
an opening to contact and at least partially surround the
substantially horizontal portion of the fluid conduit system; the
containment apparatus including an engagement portion defining an
opening to contact and at least partially surround the
substantially horizontal portion of the fluid conduit system; a
sloped aspect in the containment apparatus to direct a fluid
leaking from the fluid conduit system to a fluid containment area;
a sensor positioned adjacent the fluid containment area to detect
the leaking fluid; and an alarm associated with the sensor to alert
a user to the leaking fluid.
13. The leak detection apparatus of claim 12, wherein the
engagement portion includes a first and a second semi-rigid
protruding aspect to allow the engagement portion itself and the
first and second semi-rigid protruding aspect to snap onto the
substantially horizontal portion of the fluid conduit system.
14. The leak detection apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a
fastening mechanism associated with the container to further affix
the container to the substantially horizontal portion of the fluid
conduit system.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is continuation of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 15/081,868, filed Mar. 26, 2016, and claims the benefit of
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/138,878, filed Mar. 26,
2015 and titled "Piping System and Leak Detection Methods, Systems
and Apparatus", the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Water is one of the leading causes of property damage in
both commercial and residential properties--estimated to be in the
billions of dollars annually. Water leaks can occur from a range of
appliances and fixtures. The most common sources of these leaks
include junctions and connections from water heaters,
refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, toilets, and
sinks.
[0003] Even though the valves, junctions, and line connections are
visible for these appliances and areas, they are usually not
reviewed or observed on a regular basis. Therefore, if a slow water
leak occurs at any of these junctions or devices, framing,
flooring, walls, and nearby items are usually significantly damaged
before the leak is detected. Additionally, many of these situations
will also develop mold, which requires additional steps of
remediation and cost.
[0004] Water leak detection systems, also called water damage loss
mitigation devices, are proactive systems that detect and notify
when a water leak has occurred. These systems are ideal for use in
apartment buildings, condominiums, rental properties, households,
commercial buildings, and highly sensitive areas such as
laboratories or computer rooms.
[0005] Water detection systems and devices can help prevent losses
from slow leaks as well as more forceful types of water damage.
Systems can be passive and/or active. A simple passive system will
provide a leak alert to the area impacted while an active system
can send an alarm to a central monitoring station and also stop
water flow by activating a shutoff valve.
[0006] Fluid conduit system such as piping systems enable the
delivery control of a fluid. Fluids include materials in liquid or
gaseous form, or any material that that generally exhibit the
characteristic readiness to flow, including finely divided solids.
Fluid conduit systems such as piping systems can carry fluids from
one location to another. Piping systems are usually made from
materials that can sustain the weight, pressure, fluid momentum,
and/or other forces exhibited by the properties and/or movement of
a fluid.
[0007] Examples of a piping system include oil supply systems, gas
supply systems, water supply systems, and sewage systems. In
typical water supply systems or sewage systems, a system, or a
network, of piping and plumbing fittings transport water or
water-based aqueous materials from one location to another. In one
aspect, piping and plumbing fittings, when connected properly
enable the delivery of water, or aqueous materials from one
location to another. Piping systems in general include, but are not
limited to components such as pipes, hoses, valves, couplings,
unions, outlets, joints, appliances, and pumps. Piping system
components, when fitted together, have an opening through which a
fluid can flow through the piping system from one location to
another. Commonly found examples of piping and plumbing fittings
include, pipes or hoses, valves, faucets, water-related fixtures,
and other plumbing fittings which may be found in a typical
household, or the more complex system of pipes or hoses which may
be found in large commercial buildings.
[0008] Piping system components are typically made of materials
such as steel, like galvanized steel, copper, brass, silicone,
rubber, and/or plastics, where an example of a plastic material is
colloquially referred to as polyvinyl chloride (PVC). While typical
system components are designed to enable movement of a fluid from
one location to another, replacement, fixing, or otherwise
repairing some or all sections of a piping system is an integral
part of maintaining the movement of a fluid from one location to
another. Because many of the components that make up the piping and
plumbing fittings can fail over time, repair is integral to
maintaining effective flow of fluids. Such failure of piping system
components can occur because of, for example, corrosion, fatigue,
impact, wear, buckling, fracture, and other causes of mechanical,
temperature, biological, and chemical stresses, among other
stresses.
[0009] Damage to a part or whole of a piping system, from normal
wear and tear and/or sudden damage from use and misuse can also
cause failure within a piping system, and lead to decreased flow of
a fluid from one location to another. For instance, gaskets can
fail leading to leak of fluids in various piping systems. In one
example, certain valves further comprise gaskets and/or seals that
mitigate the unwanted flow of a fluid from flowing through or
flowing out of a piping system. Failure of these gaskets and/or
seals can lead to unwanted flow of a fluid, thus resulting in a
slow leak.
[0010] A possible result of failure from a part or sum of parts of
a piping system is a leak. In a typical piping system, component
failure can result in a leak. In the case of a typical water supply
system or sewage system, a leak can cause inefficient transfer of
water from one location to another. The resulting water or aqueous
substance that escapes a water supply system or sewage system is
then typically found on the exterior of piping and plumbing
fittings associated with the water supply system or sewage system.
Slow leaks are characterized by relatively slower escape of a fluid
from a piping system than fast leaks. Slow leaks can be further
characterized by a gradual, consistent or inconsistent, flow of a
fluid on the exterior of piping and plumbing fittings.
[0011] Insurance claims related to water damage are the second most
frequently filed claims in the United States, accounting for
approximately 23% of all homeowner property losses over the course
of 5 years. According to the Insurance Services Office, between
2008 and 2012, the average cost of a water damage claim was $7,195
per claim, with an estimated loss of $11 billion annually in the
U.S. alone. In 2012, the frequency of water-damage and freezing
claims accounted for 1.79 claims per 100 house years (policies).
Furthermore, according to the ACE Private Risk Services study
(published by ACE Group, Apr. 4, 2011), up to 93% of the cost of
water damage could have been prevented or minimized if an automatic
water leak detection and shut-off system has been present at
home.
[0012] Common sources of leaks related to piping systems, and
specifically in water supply system or sewage systems, are related
to junctions, which can include connections, hoses, pipes,
fittings, and/or valves and junctions with washing machines,
refrigerators, icemakers, water heaters, water mains, dishwashers,
restaurant equipment, toilets, sinks, and industrial distribution
applications. To prevent such leaks, it is advised that persons
regularly inspect these piping systems and related components, and
replace any of such systems or components on a regular basis or
when damage or leaks are detected. However, it is not always the
case that inspections and replacements are performed regularly, and
the problem of potentially damaging sources of leaks is thus still
present. Problems related to such water leaks include slow leaks
that can cause significant damage to framing, flooring, walls, and
other nearby property before the leak is detected. In some cases, a
piping system may be hidden or out of view, and leaks may occur
without a person's knowledge, potentially leading to substantial
damage to property before the leak is detected. Additionally, there
is a risk for mold development and other unwanted biological
growth, which often requires additional steps of remediation and
cost.
[0013] Leaks, and particularly slow leaks are typically not
avoidable. The materials that comprise piping systems are
susceptible to damage and wear over the course of time. Various
sources of stress can exist for a piping system, and the sources of
stress can create a leak in which the liquid substance flowing
through said piping system could escape. A common source of leaks
is at and near fittings. Typical fittings join two pieces of pipe
or hoses together. However, stress on a fitting can weaken seals
and regions associated with such joining, and result in a leak of a
liquid substance. Another common example of a source of leaks is at
and near valves. In certain cases, the moving elements of valves
can weaken or become damaged from stress. In one example, some
valves have elastomers that prevent the flow of unwanted fluid flow
through the components of the valve. In these cases, the elastomers
can break, corrode, or may not properly fit, leading to a leak.
However, it is known to persons having skill in the art that the
source of leaks and slow leaks are not limited to these examples
and locations related to a piping system.
[0014] Japanese Patent No. JP10292893A (Ohigata, 1997) discloses a
doughnut-shaped pan with a detector that may attach to the exterior
of a pipe. The doughnut shaped pan is fitted to the outer
circumference of a distribution pipe, and condensation along the
exterior of a distribution pipe is detected. However, there are
number of shortcomings related to attachment of such detector to a
pipe. For example, junctions and valves of piping systems are a
common source of slow leaks. Therefore, there is a need for a
detector that specifically enables detection of leaks from other
areas of piping systems, including detection from areas of piping
systems that are prone to leaks, such as leaks located at
connection points like fittings, junctions and/or the valves.
[0015] In addition, many common types of fittings and valves change
the direction of flow of a liquid substance, which can also induce
a change in flow rate, or pressure, which can be associated with an
increased rate of failure. For instance, a number of different
types of fittings, commonly used in plumbing, include elbows,
couplings, crosses, caps, and tees. These fittings can have a size
and/or shape different from those of a pipe in their proximity.
Valves can have irregular shapes and sizes. Fittings and valves can
also have an irregular form. One of the problems with JP10292893A
(Ohigata, 1997) is that it cannot be attached to fittings and
valves to detect leaks.
[0016] When slow leaks are not repaired quickly, water or aqueous
substances escaping the piping and plumbing fittings can cause
substantial damage. Because of the slower rate of escape, slow
leaks are not detected easily, and thus can cause substantial
damage prior to detection. Problems associated with a slow leak can
range from economic loss due to unnecessary consumption of the
fluid escaping through a slow leak, or damage to building
structures or foundations. Furthermore, insurance companies
specializing in property insurance may have specific guidelines for
covering certain types of risks to property. In some instances, a
given insurance policy does not protect a payer from certain types
of damage. In many cases, a higher, thus more expensive insurance
premium must be paid to ensure protection against potential damage
caused by leaks relating to piping system, and particularly for
slow leaks. Therefore, there is a need for an early detection of a
leak, particularly for slow leaks as to prevent further damage that
can be derived from such slow leak.
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 5,343,191 (McAtamney, 1993, incorporated by
reference in its entirety) discloses a leak detection system
installed on a pipeline system. An outer compartment encompasses a
piping system and detects leaks from the pipeline system in the
interstitial space. Various sensors placed along the outer
compartment are disclosed. However, this leak detector system
requires that the outer compartment be installed while installing a
piping system, or while modifying a piping system. These
requirements make installation of such leak detectors costly and
labor intensive. Further, a number of leak sensors may be placed
across the outer compartment, and because the outer compartment is
interconnected, it may become difficult to discern specific regions
of the piping system as a source of a leak. Additionally, U.S. Pat.
No. 5,343,191 (McAtamney, 1993) is designed for both underground
and above-ground installations. However, any mechanical problems,
hydraulic problems, structural problems, electrical problems,
leakage, or other problems to a piping system and/or the leak
detector disclosed in McAtamney, 1993 requires that part or a whole
of the piping system and/or the leak detector be disassembled,
fixed, re-assembled. Therefore, there is a need for a retrofit leak
detection means that fits on existing piping systems, and further,
specifically target the detection of leaks from problematic
components of a piping system, including but not limited to
junctions, valves, joints, and fittings. Additionally, there is a
need for a leak detection means that is modular, and that can be
installed more simply, quickly, and efficiently on a number of
different piping system applications.
[0018] Many water detection products exist today to identify water
once it is on the ground or after the water has caused significant
damage. These devices primarily consist of contact based cable-type
or rope-type devices, contact based sensors, and cylinders/towers.
Examples of such existing products include the Leak Alert.TM..
Water Detector by Zircon Corp, and the Water Defense Water Alarm by
Honeywell, Inc. These types of designs rely on water moving across
a floor or flat surface, and then, if the device is placed
correctly, the potential exists for the water to come into contact
and be detected with the probe, sensor, or other types units. If
water contact occurs, these types of devices then trigger an
audible alarm. However, there are a number of limitations with
these types of prior art detectors. For instance, it is sometimes
difficult to predict where to place an existing water detection
product, and an incorrect prediction of placement can greatly
affect whether or not these detectors will detect a leak and how
soon such that much damage may be done prior to detection. For
instance, these existing products rely on water moving towards and
contacting the sensor portion these products. If a floor is uneven,
not level, or there are obstructions that affect the flow of a
fluid, such fluid may not reach a prior art water-detection
product. The path of the pipe can allow the leak to flow into
floors, walls, ceilings, and other environments, etc. away from the
device, and therefore, be undetected by the alarm device or user.
Thus, significant damage from the leak occurs over time, usually
without detection from these types of devices. Additionally, these
designs rely on water being leaked on a surface in significant
quantities before an alarm is generated. In some cases, these
devices or portions of these devices are spatially bulky and may
not fit in certain environments. In a related sense, the design of
these devices or portions of these devices are, subjectively
speaking, not aesthetically pleasing, and may further lead to low
adoption rates. Therefore, there is a need for a form fitting,
inconspicuous and/or aesthetically pleasing detector for leaks that
may lead to greater adoption, and hence, decreased costs associated
with water damage.
SUMMARY
[0019] Embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein relate
to leak detection from fluid conduit systems such as piping
systems. In one aspect, embodiments relate to leak detection of
water supply, sewage system, and plumbing. In another aspect,
embodiments of the invention comprise an apparatus related to
piping and plumbing encapsulation for detecting leaks. In another
aspect, certain embodiments of the invention further comprises an
apparatus that conform to piping and plumbing features, for
example, valves and connectors, for detecting leaks.
[0020] Embodiments of the present invention automatically identify
different levels of water leaks occurring from various types of
business, industrial, and household water applications including
junctions, connections, couplings, valves, hoses, appliances, and
water heaters. These devices are unique in that they mitigate the
water leak and notify the user of an issue prior to the water
contacting the surrounding environments and causing damage.
According to certain embodiments, slow leaks are detected quickly.
The water leaks are contained in a storage container tank, sleeve,
or tub, which prevents water damage to the surrounding areas such
as framing, flooring, walls and other nearby items or structure.
Embodiments of the present invention can be used in retrofitting or
in new piping system builds and installations and can be built
directly into various appliances, fixtures, valves, pumps and the
like. Embodiments where a new build is desired comprise a one-piece
unit that can be installed during new valve/junction installation.
Embodiments where retrofitting is desired comprise one or more
pieces that can be installed on or adjacent to any existing
junction, connection, valve, etc.
[0021] According to certain embodiments of the present invention,
detection of a fluid leak to mitigate damage resulting from an
undetected leak comprises installing a leak detection device,
detecting a leak using said leak detection device, triggering an
alarm after detection of a leak, generating a notification to alert
a user of said leak, whereby damage is mitigated by the early
detection of said leak. Detection of the leak before it reaches
surrounding structures such as walls, floors and the like is
important to mitigating damage. Such early detection could result
in substantial savings to homeowners and insurers. For example, a
homeowner could install the water detection device at his or her
home, the homeowner could inform an insurer about the use of the
water detection device, and the water detection device would alarm
once a slow leak is detected, whereby the damage caused by water
damages is mitigated by the early detection of the slow leak.
[0022] Certain embodiments have an open configuration that can be
used on vertical water valves. These embodiments can be used on
vertical valves and junctions in common bathroom, kitchen, sink,
and toilet applications. The present invention can catch a small
leak from any aspect of the vertical valve (e.g. compression
fitting, valve stem seal, water line junction, and valve stem
junction, etc.) and can present an alarm to the user. Additionally,
these embodiments will catch leaks from any upward
junctions/connections, where the connection leak follows the
direction of the pipe and flows into the storage container
unit.
[0023] Certain embodiments have an enclosed configuration and valve
access. These embodiments can be used on horizontal or vertical
valves and junctions common in, but not limited to bathroom,
kitchen, sink, toilet various other appliances and industrial
applications including gas leaks. The present embodiments can catch
a small leak from any aspect of the horizontal or vertical valve
(e.g. compression fitting, valve stem seal, water line junction,
and valve stem junction, etc.), and can present an alarm to the
user. These embodiments will catch leaks from any upward
junctions/connections, where the connection leak follows the
direction of the pipe and flows into the storage unit.
Additionally, this configuration has various types of openings that
allow the user to have access to the valve via removal of a panel,
door, or seal.
[0024] Other embodiments have an enclosed configuration with a
sleeve junction. These embodiments can be used on horizontal or
vertical valves and junctions common in, but not limited to
bathroom, kitchen, sink, toilet, and various other appliances and
industrial applications. The present invention can catch a small
leak from any aspect of the horizontal or vertical valve (e.g.
compression fitting, valve stem seal, water line junction, and
valve stem junction, etc.), and can present an alarm to the user.
These embodiments can comprise a sleeve that connects between the
top of the storage unit and the top-most line junction above the
storage unit. This ensures that all leaks from any above junctions
will follow the path of the sleeve and flow into the storage tank.
Additionally, these embodiments have various types of openings that
allow the user to have access to the valve via removal of a panel,
door, or seal.
[0025] Certain embodiments have an open configuration and can used
on horizontal valves and junctions common in, but not limited to,
bathroom, kitchen, sink, and toilet applications. The present
invention can catch a small leak from any aspect of the horizontal
valve (e.g. compression fitting, valve stem seal, water line
junction, and valve stem junction, etc.), and can present an alarm
to the user. Additionally, these embodiments will catch leaks from
any upward junctions/connections, where the connection leak follows
the direction of the pipe and flows into the storage unit.
[0026] Other embodiments have an open design that can be used with
washing machines. These embodiments can be used on horizontal hose
junctions on washing machines and water valve connections. The open
configuration will affix to the existing horizontal hose
connection(s), catch a small leak from any aspect of the horizontal
junction (e.g. water line inlet and Water hose connection), and can
present an alarm to the user. Embodiments can function on a single
hose connection or double hose connection (hot/cold).
[0027] Certain embodiments have an enclosed configuration with
valve access. These embodiments can be used on horizontal hose
junctions on washing machines and water valve connections. The
enclosed design will affix to the existing horizontal hose
connection(s), catch a small leak from any aspect of the horizontal
junction (e.g. water line inlet and water hose connection), and can
present an alarm to the user. Embodiments can function on a single
or double hose connection (hot/cold). Certain embodiments can
encapsulate the entire junction/connection of single or double hose
while still allowing the user access to the hose junctions for
inspection, removal, and new installation. Certain embodiments
include a single unit with multiple sleeves to encapsulate multiple
hoses in one unit. Certain embodiments have an enclosed
configuration with sleeve junction. These embodiments can be placed
on horizontal hose junctions on washing machines and water valve
connections. Certain embodiments comprise an encompassing sleeve,
which is a flexible, expandable sleeve that has rubber junction
encasements at each end of the sleeve. In yet another embodiment, a
configuration fits around multiple valves such as in an automatic
washer appliance such that leaks from both the hot and cold on/off
valves are caught at the source and a notification such as an alarm
can alert a user. The leak point could be from a number of
potential sources such as the valve to hose junction or the crimp
that connects the hose.
[0028] Other embodiments comprise an encompassing sleeve that
connects to enclosed storage units. Both of these enclosed
embodiments ensure the washing machine hose and related
junctions/connections are fully enclosed. Using this approach, any
type of leak from any aspect of the hose will be collected in the
storage tanks or sleeve and an alarm will sound accordingly.
Embodiments can function on a single or double hose connection
(hot/cold). These embodiments encapsulate the entire
junction/connection of single or double hose while still allowing
the user access to the hose junctions for inspection, removal, and
new installation.
[0029] In yet another embodiment, the present invention can be used
on horizontal and vertical water feed line junctions on
refrigerators, freezers, and icemakers. In these embodiments, the
enclosed storage unit configuration can catch and identify a small
leak from any aspect of the horizontal or vertical connection
including the water connection joint and point of entry into the
appliance.
[0030] Certain embodiments have an enclosed design with sleeve
junction. These embodiments can be used on horizontal and vertical
valves, junctions, and connections that are common on most
refrigerators, freezers, and icemakers. The present invention can
catch and identify a small leak from any aspect of the horizontal
or vertical connection including the water connection joint and
point of entry into the appliance. These embodiments also comprise
a sleeve that connects between the top of the storage unit and the
top-most connection point above the storage unit. This ensures that
all leaks from any above junctions will follow the path of the
sleeve and flow into the storage tank.
[0031] In yet another embodiment, the present invention can be used
on vertical valves and junctions that are commonly used above most
water heaters. The present invention can catch a small leak from
any aspect of the vertical valve (e.g. compression fitting, valve
stem seal, water line junction, and valve stem junction), and can
present an alarm to the user. Additionally, these embodiments can
catch leaks from any upward junctions/connections, where the
connection leak follows the direction of the pipe and flows into
the storage unit.
[0032] Other embodiments have an enclosed configuration with valve
access and can be used on vertical valves and junctions that are
commonly utilized above most water heaters. The present invention
can catch a small leak from any aspect of the vertical valve (e.g.
compression fitting, valve stem seal, water line junction, and
valve stem junction), and can present an alarm to the user. This
design will catch leaks from any upward junctions/connections,
where the connection leak follows the direction of the pipe and
flows into the storage unit. Additionally, these embodiments have
various types of openings that allow the user to have access to the
valve via removal of a panel, door, or seal.
[0033] Certain embodiments have an enclosed design with a sleeve
junction and can be used on vertical valves and junctions that are
commonly utilized above most water heaters. The present invention
can catch a small leak from any aspect of the vertical valve (e.g.
compression Fitting, Valve stem seal, water line junction, and
valve stem junction), and present an alarm to the user. These
embodiments comprise a sleeve that connects between the top of the
storage unit and the top-most line junction above the storage unit.
This ensures that all leaks from any above junctions will follow
the path of the sleeve and flow into the storage tank.
Additionally, these embodiments have various types of openings that
allow the user to have access to the valve via removal of a panel,
door, or seal.
[0034] In yet another embodiment, the present invention has an
enclosed design with valve access can be used on vertical and/or
horizontal valves and junctions that are commonly utilized for most
dishwashers. The present invention can catch a small leak from any
aspect of the valve (e.g. compression fitting, valve stem seal,
water line junction, and valve stem junction), and can present an
alarm to the user. This design will catch leaks from any upward
junctions/connections, where the connection leak follows the
direction of the pipe and flows into the storage unit.
Additionally, these embodiments have various types of openings that
allow the user to have access to the valve via removal of a panel,
door, or seal.
[0035] the embodiments have an enclosed design with sleeve
junction. Dishwasher feed hoses, valves, and junctions can follow
various upward or looping paths. Therefore, these embodiments use a
combination of a sleeve and a unit having an enclosed
configuration. The present invention can catch a small leak from
any aspect of the dishwasher feed valve (e.g. compression fitting,
valve stem seal, water line junction, and valve stem junction), and
can present an alarm to the user. These embodiments also have a
sleeve similar to embodiments used with washing machines,
comprising a sleeve that is installed over the dishwasher feed
line. This ensures that all leaks from any above junctions will
follow the path of the sleeve and flow into the storage tank.
[0036] In yet another embodiment, the present invention can be used
with water main valves and sprinkler system valves. As those
skilled in the art can appreciate, the embodiments described above
are not limited to the specific environment used in the examples
above and certain embodiments are configured to work with other
systems such as water main valves and sprinkler system valves.
Moreover, as can be appreciated, the present invention can be used
in numerous settings and benefit multiple industries and is not
limited to leak detection in residential homes. Certain embodiments
of the present invention are directed to commercial buildings.
Other embodiments can be used in the oil and gas industry and
water/sanitation, where similar systems, methods and apparatuses
can be used to detect the slow leak of a fluid, whether the fluid
is oil or water, or a combination of any material that can flow.
For example, those in the oil and gas industry could install a leak
detection device on the junctions of pipes, valves, pumps such that
the leak detection device would alarm once a slow leak is detected,
and action could be taken in response to the alarm, whereby the
loss of oil resulting from a slow leak is mitigated. As those
skilled in the art can appreciate, early detection of a slow leak
in the oil and gas industry could also prevent damage caused by
leaks, such as damage to the surrounding environment, or damage to
the equipment. The leak detection device could also be built
directly into or onto pipes, valves and pumps by a
manufacturer.
[0037] In certain embodiments, the present invention comprises a
system to determine the presence of a fluid leak to mitigate damage
resulting from an undetected leak comprising a container adapted to
hold fluid attached to a piping system, an alarm located within
said container, said alarm comprising a sensor adapted to determine
the presence of a fluid within said container, a device configured
to receive said alarm, and notification interface to notify a user
of said alarm.
[0038] Embodiments of the present invention comprise an alarm to
notify the detection of a leak. The alarm can utilize various types
of sensors, switches, and/or circuits to identify the presence of
water within one of the storage tanks or sleeves. Once the switch
has been tripped, an alarm will occur, which can be any singular or
combination of; an audible alarm, visual alarm, scent alarm, and/or
alarm via a wireless system. In one embodiment, the alarm system
comprises an on-board alarm circuit and a remote alarm
notification. The on-board alarm system can have a speaker that
would sound once the alarm is triggered. The on-board alarm system
comprises a power source, which can be battery or an AC power
source. In certain embodiments, the circuit can be on-board a tank
or sleeve. The circuit can be placed in various locations to
maximize leak detection. In certain embodiments, the system further
comprises a switch to turn off any alarm, a low-voltage/battery
warning, a reset option or process, and a water sensor probe or
float level switch. Certain embodiments comprise a monitoring
system, which can be wired or wireless. Certain embodiments also
can be monitored using applications, including portable electronic
devices such as computer applications, web-based cloud
notifications, or smart phone applications (e.g. Android, iOS,
etc.). The system can be configured to avoid false alarms of leaks,
such as condensation prematurely triggering the alarm. For example,
the sensors can be positioned a small distance from the fluid
capture area of the containment device to allow a pre-determined
amount of condensation or fluid accumulation to occur without
triggering the alarm.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0039] FIG. 1A. Perspective view of an open design vertical valve
application embodiment for new plumbing installations.
[0040] FIG. 1B. Perspective view of an open design vertical valve
application embodiment for existing plumbing installations.
[0041] FIG. 1C. Perspective view of an open design vertical valve
application embodiment for existing plumbing installations, showing
one container-half piece with respect to a cross-sectional view of
a pipe and vertical valve.
[0042] FIG. 1D. Bottom view of a vertical valve application
embodiment.
[0043] FIG. 2A. Perspective view of an open design angle valve
application embodiment with associated piping system.
[0044] FIG. 2B. Side view of an open design angle valve application
embodiment.
[0045] FIG. 2C. Side view of an open design angle valve application
embodiment.
[0046] FIG. 2D. Frontal view of an open design angle valve
application embodiment associated with a piping system.
[0047] FIG. 2E. Perspective view of an open design angle valve
application embodiment.
[0048] FIG. 3A. A schematic of a sensor unit embodiment.
[0049] FIG. 3B. Perspective view of the sensor unit in an
embodiment.
[0050] FIG. 3C. Back perspective view of the sensor unit in an
embodiment.
[0051] FIG. 3D. Front view of a sensor unit embodiment.
[0052] FIG. 3E. Embodiments of sensor probes.
[0053] FIG. 3F. Embodiments of sensor probes with a bridging
material.
[0054] FIG. 4A. Perspective view of a sensor unit affixing to a
container for a horizontal valve application.
[0055] FIG. 4B. Perspective view of a sensor unit affixing to a
container for a vertical valve application.
[0056] FIG. 4C. Top-down view of a sensor unit affixing to a
container wall, in one embodiment of the invention.
[0057] FIG. 5A. An embodiment of open design angle valve
application in relation with a fixture.
[0058] FIG. 5B. An embodiment of open design vertical valve
application in relation with a fixture.
[0059] FIG. 6A. Front perspective view of a sensor unit with a
container attachment.
[0060] FIG. 6B. Rear perspective view of a sensor unit with a
container attachment.
[0061] FIG. 6C. Embodiment of a sensor unit incorporated into a
container.
[0062] FIG. 7A. Perspective view of a closed design vertical valve
application for new plumbing installation in an embodiment with
features of a piping system.
[0063] FIG. 7B. Perspective view of a cross section of a closed
design vertical valve application for new plumbing installation in
an embodiment, with features of a piping system.
[0064] FIG. 7C. Back view of a closed design vertical valve
application for new plumbing installations in an embodiment of the
invention.
[0065] FIG. 7D. Side view of a closed design vertical valve
application embodiment for new plumbing installations.
[0066] FIG. 8A. Perspective view of an enclosed container vertical
valve application embodiment for existing plumbing
installations.
[0067] FIG. 8B. Perspective view of a portion of an enclosed
container vertical valve application container piece for
retrofitting existing plumbing existing plumbing in an
embodiment.
[0068] FIG. 8C. An enclosed container vertical valve application
embodiment for installations on existing plumbing viewed in the
front view, side view, and top views.
[0069] FIG. 8D. Perspective view of an enclosed container vertical
valve application for retrofitting existing plumbing embodiment,
shown with features of a piping system.
[0070] FIG. 8E. Perspective view of an enclosed container vertical
valve application partial container piece for retrofitting existing
plumbing embodiment, shown with features of a piping system.
[0071] FIG. 8F. Perspective close-up view of an embodiment of a
fastening feature.
[0072] FIG. 8G. Cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a
fastening feature.
[0073] FIG. 9A. Perspective view of a closed design vertical valve
application with an operating handle container, shown with features
of a piping system.
[0074] FIG. 9B. Perspective view of a closed design vertical valve
application with an operating handle container, where a portion of
the operating handle container is cut out, shown with features of a
piping system.
[0075] FIG. 9C. Side view and front view of a closed design
vertical valve application with an operating handle container,
shown with features of a piping system.
[0076] FIG. 10A. Exploded perspective view of an enclosed straight
container embodiment and an enclosed straight cap embodiment
attached to a straight valve in a horizontal orientation.
[0077] FIG. 10B. Perspective view of a fastening feature for an
enclosed straight container embodiment and an enclosed straight cap
embodiment.
[0078] FIG. 10C. Perspective view of an enclosed straight container
embodiment and an enclosed straight cap attachment embodiment with
a sensor unit embodiment.
[0079] FIG. 10D. Perspective view of an open container embodiment
with pipe attachment.
[0080] FIG. 10E. Perspective view of open container of 10D attached
to pipe.
[0081] FIG. 11A. Exploded perspective view of an enclosed straight
container embodiment and an enclosed straight cap embodiment
attached to a straight valve in a vertical orientation, further
showing an access port and access panel.
[0082] FIG. 11B. Perspective view of an enclosed straight container
embodiment and an enclosed straight cap embodiment attached to a
straight valve in the vertical orientation, further showing an
access panel.
[0083] FIG. 12A. Perspective view of a closed design vertical
fitting application embodiment.
[0084] FIG. 12B. Perspective partial sectional view of a closed
design vertical fitting application embodiment with fitting and
pipes.
[0085] FIG. 12C. Side cross-sectional view of a closed design
vertical fitting application embodiment with fitting and pipes.
[0086] FIG. 12D. Exploded view of a closed design vertical fitting
application embodiment.
[0087] FIG. 13A. Perspective view of a flexible encapsulation
assembly embodiment.
[0088] FIG. 13B. Side cross-sectional view of a flexible
encapsulation assembly embodiment around a straight valve.
[0089] FIG. 13C. A user's hand in relation to a flexible
encapsulation assembly embodiment.
[0090] FIG. 14A. Perspective view of a dual horizontal connector
application embodiment without a lid.
[0091] FIG. 14B. Perspective view of a dual horizontal connector
application embodiment with a lid.
[0092] FIG. 14C. Exploded perspective view of a dual horizontal
connector application embodiment with a stabilization lid.
[0093] FIG. 15A. Perspective view of a contracted sleeve with a
ring plate embodiment.
[0094] FIG. 15B. Perspective view of a contracted sleeve with a
ring plate embodiment on a pipe.
[0095] FIG. 15C. Side view of a contracted sleeve with a ring plate
embodiment.
[0096] FIG. 15D. Side view of a sleeve with a ring plate embodiment
contracted on a pipe.
[0097] FIG. 15E. Perspective view of a sleeve with a ring plate
embodiment expanded on a pipe.
[0098] FIG. 16A. Perspective view of a contracted sleeve with a
two-opening plate.
[0099] FIG. 16B. Front view of a sleeve with a two-opening plate
embodiment.
[0100] FIG. 16C. Perspective view of a sleeve with a two-opening
plate embodiment expanded on a pipe, a pipe connecting a
wall-mounted assembly and an appliance.
[0101] FIG. 16D. Perspective view of a sleeve with a two-opening
plate embodiment contracted on a pipe.
[0102] FIG. 16E. Perspective view of a sleeve with a two-opening
plate embodiment expanded on a pipe.
[0103] FIG. 17A. Perspective view of a closed design vertical
container embodiment.
[0104] FIG. 17B. Front, top, bottom, and side views of a closed
design vertical container embodiment.
[0105] FIG. 17C. Bottom perspective view of a closed design
vertical container embodiment.
[0106] FIG. 17D. Sectional perspective view of a closed design
vertical container embodiment.
[0107] FIG. 17E. Perspective view of a closed design vertical
container embodiment with a sensor unit.
[0108] FIG. 18A. Perspective view of a flexible encapsulation
assembly embodiment containing a slit on a pipe and valve.
[0109] FIG. 18B. Top view of a flexible encapsulation assembly
embodiment containing a slit on a pipe and valve.
[0110] FIG. 19A. Cross-sectional side view of an enclosed straight
container access panel and access port and an enclosed straight
cap.
[0111] FIG. 19B. Close-up cross-sectional view of an access panel
and access port.
[0112] FIG. 19C. Close-up cross-sectional view of an access panel
press fit to an access port.
[0113] FIG. 19D. Perspective cross-sectional view of an enclosed
straight container and enclosed straight cap, with an access panel
attached to an access port.
[0114] FIG. 20A. Perspective view of a contracted sleeve with ring
plates embodiment.
[0115] FIG. 20B. Perspective view of a contracted sleeve with
two-opening plates embodiment.
[0116] FIG. 20C. Side sectional view of an expanded sleeve
embodiment on a portion of a piping system, where a ring plate is
one piece.
[0117] FIG. 20D. Side sectional view of an expanded sleeve
embodiment on a portion of a piping system, where a ring plate
includes a partial ring plate piece and a membrane.
[0118] FIG. 20E. Exploded view of a ring plate embodiment
comprising a partial ring plate piece and membrane.
[0119] FIG. 21A. Side-view of a sleeve with a slit embodiment
attaching to a portion of a piping system.
[0120] FIG. 21B. Perspective view of a sleeve with a slit
embodiment on a portion of a piping system.
[0121] FIG. 22A. Perspective view of an appliance with a sleeve and
container assembly embodiment.
[0122] FIG. 22B. Close-up perspective view of an appliance with a
sleeve and container assembly embodiment.
[0123] FIG. 23A. Perspective view of a sleeve and container
assembly embodiment installed on a piping system, where a sleeve is
contracted.
[0124] FIG. 23B. Perspective view of a sleeve and container
assembly embodiment is installed on a piping system, where a sleeve
is expanded.
[0125] FIG. 23C. Close-up sectional view of an embodiment of a
sleeve attaching to a junction.
[0126] FIG. 23D. Close-up sectional view of an embodiment of a
sleeve attaching to a closed design vertical container.
[0127] FIG. 24A. Perspective view of a sleeve and container
assembly embodiment with a contracted sleeve, installed on a curved
piping system.
[0128] FIG. 24B. Perspective view of a sleeve and container
assembly embodiment with an expanded sleeve, installed on a curved
piping system.
[0129] FIG. 24C. Partial cutaway view of an embodiment of a sleeve
attaching to a junction and closed design vertical container.
[0130] FIG. 24D. Perspective view of a sleeve and container
assembly embodiment with an expanded sleeve, installed on a
horizontal piping system.
[0131] FIG. 25. Box diagram depicting an embodiment of a leak
detection and an alarm system.
[0132] FIG. 26A. Front perspective view, rear perspective view, and
side view of an open design vertical valve application.
[0133] FIG. 26B. Top view, and bottom view, of an open design
vertical valve application embodiment further including partial
container piece embodiments for existing plumbing.
[0134] FIG. 26C. Perspective view of a two-piece container. FIG.
26D. Exploded view of an open design vertical valve application
embodiment further including partial container piece
embodiments.
[0135] FIG. 26E. Close-up view of a fastening feature for an open
design vertical valve application embodiment further including
partial container piece embodiments.
[0136] FIG. 27A. Perspective view of an appliance with a lever
valve container embodiment.
[0137] FIG. 27B. Perspective view of a lever valve container
embodiment with an access port removed.
[0138] FIG. 27C. Perspective view of a lever valve container
embodiment with an access port removed.
[0139] FIG. 27D. Top-view, front-view, side-view, and back-view of
an embodiment of a lever valve container embodiment on a portion of
a piping system.
[0140] FIG. 27E. Top-view of lever valve container embodiment.
[0141] FIG. 28A. Exploded perspective view of a lever valve
container embodiment on a valve.
[0142] FIG. 28B. Partial cutaway view of a lever valve container
embodiment on a valve.
[0143] FIG. 28C. Close-up view of a fastening feature for a lever
valve container embodiment.
[0144] FIG. 28D. Close-up partial sectional view of an access port
attaching on a lever valve container embodiment shown in FIG.
28B.
[0145] FIG. 29A. Perspective view of an industrial application
embodiment on a portion of a piping system.
[0146] FIG. 29B. Exploded view of an industrial application
embodiment on a portion of a piping system.
[0147] FIG. 29C. Perspective view of an industrial application
embodiment on a portion of a piping system, where an industrial
application partial container piece is removed.
[0148] FIG. 30A. Perspective view of an industrial application
embodiment.
[0149] FIG. 30B. Exploded view of an industrial application
embodiment.
[0150] FIG. 30C. Side-view, front-view, and bottom view of an
industrial application embodiment.
[0151] FIG. 30D. Close-up view of joining edges of industrial
application partial container piece embodiments.
[0152] FIG. 31A. Perspective view of sleeve.
[0153] FIG. 31B. Perspective view of sleeve and container.
[0154] FIG. 31C. Perspective view of sleeve and container installed
on pipe.
[0155] FIG. 31D. Side view of sleeve and container installed on
pipe.
[0156] FIG. 32A. Perspective view of flexible container for
retrofit.
[0157] FIG. 32B. Perspective view of flexible container for
retrofit being installed on pipe.
[0158] FIG. 32C. Perspective view of flexible container for
retrofit after installation on pipe.
[0159] FIG. 33A. Perspective view of trim ring cup container on
pipe.
[0160] FIG. 33B. Perspective view of trim ring cup container being
installed on pipe.
[0161] FIG. 33C. Bottom view of trim ring cup container installed
on pipe.
[0162] FIG. 33D. Bottom view of trim ring cup container installed
on pipe showing overlapping portions.
[0163] FIG. 34A. Perspective view of wall mount container for
multiple valves.
[0164] FIG. 34B. Perspective view of box portion of wall mount
container.
[0165] FIG. 34C. Enlarged view of sensor mount area of wall mount
container.
[0166] FIG. 35A. A perspective view of a tray container.
[0167] FIG. 35B. A perspective view of a tray container with front
portion closed.
[0168] FIG. 35C. A perspective view of a tray container with front
portion open.
[0169] FIG. 35D. A perspective view of the underside of a tray
container showing texturing.
[0170] FIG. 36A. A rear perspective view of a fixture on a tray
container.
[0171] FIG. 36B. A front perspective view of a fixture on a tray
container.
[0172] FIG. 37A. A rear perspective view of a fixture with sensor
and container attached.
[0173] FIG. 37B. An enlarged view of a partially cutaway container
showing the container-pipe interface.
[0174] FIG. 37C. An enlarged view of a partially cutaway container
with an alternate container-pipe interface including a gasket.
[0175] FIG. 37D. A front perspective view of a sensor unit.
[0176] FIG. 38. A Flow chart illustrating a method for leak
detection and notification.
LISTING OF ITEMS WITH REFERENCE NUMBERS
[0177] Container 1 [0178] Sensor unit 2 [0179] Pipe 3 [0180]
Straight valve 4 [0181] Shaped region 5 [0182] Joining edge 6
[0183] Operating handle 7 [0184] Partial container piece 8 [0185]
Gasket 9 [0186] Container bottom 10 [0187] Opening 11 [0188] Angle
valve 12 [0189] Piping attachment 13 [0190] Battery 14 [0191]
Speaker 15 [0192] Switch 16 [0193] Sensor unit mount 17 [0194]
Microprocessor 18 [0195] Sensor probe 19 [0196] Alarm 20 [0197]
Power source 21 [0198] Sensor opening 22 [0199] Container wall 23
[0200] Container inner aspect 24 [0201] Sloped aspect 25 [0202]
Container bottom exterior 26 [0203] Upper region 27 [0204] Lower
region 28 [0205] Fixture 29 [0206] Open design vertical embodiment
30 [0207] Open design angle embodiment 31 [0208] Closed design
vertical container 32 [0209] Probe mount 33 [0210] Container
attachment 34 [0211] Probe wire 35 [0212] Enclosed container 36
[0213] Fastening feature 37 [0214] Wedge 38 [0215] Operating handle
container 39 [0216] Operating handle container waist 40 [0217]
Coupling 41 [0218] Enclosed straight container 42 [0219] Enclosed
straight cap 43 [0220] Flexible tab 44 [0221] Depression 45 [0222]
Access panel 46 [0223] Access port 47 [0224] Flexible encapsulation
assembly 48 [0225] User's hand 49 [0226] Compression nut 50 [0227]
Piping matching contour 51 [0228] Protruding aspect 52 [0229]
Enclosed vertical fitting cover 53 [0230] Vertical fitting base 54
[0231] Space 55 [0232] Dual horizontal connector container 56
[0233] Dual horizontal connector lid 57 [0234] Dual horizontal
connector lid with stabilizers 58 [0235] Stabilizer 59 [0236] Hose
protector 60 [0237] Horizontal fitting 61 [0238] Ring plate 62
[0239] Bellows 63 [0240] Sleeve 64 [0241] Pleats 65 [0242] Bellows
end 66 [0243] Two-opening plate 67 [0244] Shut-off valve 68 [0245]
Wall-mounted assembly 69 [0246] Flat aspect 70 [0247] Slit 71
[0248] Face seal 72 [0249] Removable piece 73 [0250] Lid gasket 74
[0251] Access port interface 75 [0252] Close-up view of an access
panel/access port assembly 76 [0253] Tab 77 [0254] Inner edge 78
[0255] Female adapter 79 [0256] Male adapter 80 [0257] Threaded
region 81 [0258] Membrane ring plate 82 [0259] Membrane 83 [0260]
Membrane housing 84 [0261] Partial ring plate piece 85 [0262]
Ridge-engaging tooth 86 [0263] Groove 87 [0264] Sleeve and
container assembly 88 [0265] Closed design vertical container neck
89 [0266] Closed design vertical container body 90 [0267] Opening
gap 91 [0268] Detection 92 [0269] Alarm 93 [0270] Notification 94
[0271] Notification Recipient 95 [0272] Bridging material 96 [0273]
Lever valve container 97 [0274] Lining 98 [0275] Lever valve
partial container piece 99 [0276] Handle 100 [0277] Enclosed
container for industrial or other applications 101. [0278]
Industrial application partial container piece 102 [0279] Nut 103
[0280] Threaded fastener 104 [0281] Tabbed feature with aperture
105 [0282] Valve assembly 106 [0283] Tongue 107 [0284] Operating
handle stem 108 [0285] Adjustable face 109 [0286] Gasket slit 110
[0287] Sleeve funnel 111 [0288] Pipe bend area 112 [0289]
Connecting arm 113 [0290] Fixture connection 114 [0291] Probe wires
115 [0292] LED lights 116 [0293] Controller 117 [0294] Directions
118/119 [0295] Opening 120 [0296] Trim ring cup 121 [0297] Flexible
portions 122/123 [0298] Trim ring 124 [0299] Seam 125 [0300] Leak
detection wall unit 126 [0301] Enclosure 127 [0302] Box 128 [0303]
Area 129 [0304] Drain 130 [0305] Tray 131 [0306] Tray bottom 132
[0307] Tray side 133 [0308] Tray rear 134 [0309] Tray front 135
[0310] Tray floor 136 [0311] Fitting coupling 137 [0312] Battery
backup 138 [0313] Elastomeric seal 139 [0314] Texturing 140 [0315]
Grommet holes 141 [0316] Display 144
DESCRIPTION
[0317] The present invention is directed to solving numerous
problems associated with leak detection, particularly slow leak
detection. Embodiments of the present invention include
installation of methods, systems, and apparatuses that detect leaks
on pipes and piping systems. Embodiments of the invention
encapsulate or partially encapsulate and detect leaks related to
piping systems, the piping systems typically include components
such as pipes, hoses, pipe fittings, pipe connections, pumps and
valves that carry a fluid from one location to another. Embodiments
of the present invention encapsulate or partially encapsulate an
area relating to pipes, hoses pipe connections, pumps, and valves,
and a sensor to capture fluids on the interior and/or exterior of
the encapsulated area.
[0318] In certain embodiments, a fluid being carried by a piping
system has a higher density characteristic relative to the
surrounding medium, for instance, water through a room at
atmospheric pressure. In such cases, gravity acts upon the fluid
and the addition of a sloped aspect in the container enables the
fluid to flow and accumulate toward lower regions of certain
embodiments of the invention. This enables the targeted placement
of a sensor unit to support the detection of slow and fast leaks
alike. In other embodiments, placement of a sensor unit, sensor
probe, or sensor opening, may be in other regions of the various
embodiments of the invention, as to detect the presence of a fluid.
In the case of a fluid carried through a piping system having a
lower density characteristic relative to the surrounding medium,
such as fluid substances which are typically at a gaseous state at
atmospheric pressure, a sensor unit, sensor probe, or sensor
opening may be placed in a different region of other embodiments of
the invention as to better detect leaking of such fluid. For
example, in the instance that the fluid carried exists at a gaseous
state and exhibits a density less than ambient atmosphere, the
sensing feature may be located at an elevated region of a container
as the flow of such a fluid would typically flow upward opposing
gravitational force.
[0319] In one aspect, embodiments of the invention solve the
problem of preventing leaks that may have direct effects, such as
substantial damage to property or loss of a fluid, and indirect
effects, such as monetary loss, by detecting a leak in features of
a piping system before substantial damage occurs. In one aspect,
embodiments of the invention solve the problem of potentially great
damage from water leaks, by detecting leaks related to specific
features of a piping system, such as the connection related to
piping systems. However, persons having skill in the art will
understand that embodiments of the invention are not limited to
applications for water leak detection, but also include, and are
not limited to uses for piping systems carrying fluids such as oil,
crude oil, hydrocarbons, natural gas, steam, and other substances
existing in a fluid, liquid or gaseous state.
[0320] Examples of connections in fluid conduit systems such as
piping systems include fasteners, threads, soldering, compression
fittings, flange fittings, and welding, which can be seen in piping
system junctions. Such connections typically allow the attachment
of pipes, fittings, valves, fixtures, drains, and other components
related to piping systems. Further, the components related to fluid
conduit systems, such as pipes, fittings, valves, fixtures, drains,
and other components, themselves have the potential for leaking. In
one aspect, embodiments of the invention solve the problem of
expensive and labor-intensive processes associated with previous
leak detection means, by including features that allow installation
of such embodiments of the invention on existing piping related to
piping systems, known commonly as retrofitting. In one aspect,
embodiments of the invention are installed on newly installed (new
build) connections. In another aspect the embodiments may be
installed after the connection or other fixture or feature is
installed (retrofit). In another aspect, the embodiments may be
installed by a manufacturer of the pump, pipe, fitting, fixture,
valve or the like at the time of manufacture. In another aspect,
embodiments of the present invention solves the problem of delayed
detection of slow leaks associated with known devices, by being
directly associated with potential sources of the slow leaks, thus
avoiding potentially damaging fluid leakage. Further, embodiments
of the invention further comprise container features that can
collect leaked fluid, as to prevent further escape of such
fluid.
[0321] In an embodiment, a container fitting the form of piping
systems is disclosed. In an embodiment, a container 1 fits over a
fluid conduit system such as a pipe 3 and/or straight valve 4, as
shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B. In this embodiment, container 1 is
one piece for an original installation application but in some
embodiments, container 1 may be more than one piece to fit over
pipe 3 in retrofit applications. In general, a pipe 3, as referred
to herein, may include pipes, hoses, tubes, and other materials
used to convey a fluid. There are a number of sources of leaks
associated with valves, for example, at the compression fitting,
valve stem seal, line junction, and valve stem junction.
Embodiments related to a straight valve further comprise a sensor
unit 2 affixed to the container 1. In certain embodiments, the
container 1 comprises a plurality of container parts 8, seen in
FIG. 1B. Certain embodiments of the container 1 as shown in FIG.
1A, FIG. 1B, FIG. 1C, and FIG. 1D comprises a shaped region 5. The
shaped region 5 has a form that allows certain features of a piping
system to fit when a container 1 is placed in the vicinity of a
piping system. For instance, as shown in FIG. 1A, FIG. 1B, FIG. 1C,
FIG. 2A, FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and FIG. 26A, the shaped region 5
accommodates the form of an operating handle 7 of a valve, the
operating handle and valve having shapes that are known to those
having skill in the art. Embodiments of the invention further
comprise a container bottom 10. Embodiments of the container bottom
10 allow certain embodiments of the container 1 to retain a fluid
so that sensor unit 2 detects the fluid in and around the area
encapsulated or partially encapsulated by a container 1. Certain
embodiments of the invention may be placed in new plumbing
installations, as illustrated in FIG. 1A. Certain embodiments
comprise an opening 11, as shown FIG. 1D of a bottom view of a
container 1 further showing a container bottom exterior 26, where a
piping system component, such as a pipe or valve, can be placed
through said opening 11 during assembly of the piping system.
Further, a gasket 9 placed between an opening 11 and a pipe 3 or
valve prevents the flow of a fluid through the interface between a
container 1 and features of a piping system. It will be appreciated
that gaskets may comprise of one or more materials including but
not limited to materials polymeric, metallic, and/or organic in
nature. Some examples of materials used in the manufacture of
gaskets include but are not limited to rubber, nitrile, buna,
neoprene, foam, silicone, metal or a plastic polymer such as
polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyether ether ketone (PEEK),
urethane, or ethylene propylene. A gasket 9, in certain embodiments
of the invention, is comprised of a material such as rubber or
silicone, or other materials having sealing properties known to
persons having skill in the art.
[0322] In other embodiments, a container is retrofitted to existing
piping systems, as exemplified in FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C. A plurality
of container pieces 8 can be joined, to further comprise a
container 1, as shown in FIG. 1C, showing a cross-sectional
perspective view. A container 1 affixes to existing piping systems
by joining of at least two container pieces, typically two halves.
A container piece 8 has a plurality of joining edges 6, wherein a
joining edge 6 of one container piece 8 affixes to a joining edge 6
of another container piece. In certain embodiments of the
invention, union of such joining edges is achieved by an
interference fit, including ridges, bumps or latches to allow the
two pieces to join at joining edge 6. In an embodiment, placing a
sealing material or coating between the faces of the joining edges
may be accomplished with or without the interference fit.
[0323] It will be appreciated to those skilled in the art that
container pieces may be separate non-attached pieces or exist
attached to at least one other container piece through the use of
mechanical attachments that allow movement of separate attached
container pieces independent of each other. Such attachments
include but are not limited to hinges and pivot point attachments,
which enable guided assembly of a plurality of container
pieces.
[0324] It will be appreciated that embodiments of the invention,
including but not limited to parts or a whole of certain
embodiments of a container, container piece, enclosed container,
operating handle container, operating handle container waist,
enclosed straight container, enclosed straight cap, enclosed
vertical fitting cover, vertical fitting base, dual horizontal
connector container, dual horizontal connector lid, dual horizontal
connector lid with stabilizers, industrial application enclosed
container and others components of embodiments of the invention,
may comprise of one or more materials, where examples of materials
include but are not limited to materials polymeric, metallic,
and/or organic in nature. Some examples of materials used in the
manufacture of containers and components include but are not
limited to rubber, nitrile, bioplastics, buna, neoprene, foam,
silicone, metal (such as steel, stainless steel, brass, iron,
teflon, among others), or a plastic polymer such as
polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyether ether ketone (PEEK),
urethane, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), ethylene propylene,
high density polyethyelene, or other thermoplastics.
[0325] As shown in FIG. 1C, a container piece 8 may further include
a gasket 9, wherein gasket 9 retrofits the invention to an existing
pipe 3 or a pipe fitting. Moreover, gasket 9 prevents the flow of a
fluid across the interface between a container 1 and features of a
piping system 3. In embodiments of the invention, the gasket is
made of material that includes rubber, silicone, elastomer, and
other materials that prevents or decreases the flow of a fluid
between an interface, wherein gasket 9 generally acts as a seal.
Gasket 9 may be used in an embodiment intended for the retrofitting
of existing plumbing which comprises at least one segment of
gasketing material which, when the distal ends interface, a gasket
or seal forms around the exterior surface of existing pipe 3 or
pipe fitting to prevent the flow of fluid between the interface of
the existing pipe, the container piece 8 and the mating container
piece. It will be appreciated that the gasket material may comprise
of a singular segment of flexible or semi-rigid gasket material, a
plurality of flexible gasket material, a plurality of semi-rigid
gasket material or a plurality of rigid gasket material to form a
full gasket around the perimeter an existing pipe 3 or valve.
Gasket 9 may also comprise a split seam gasket with a slit 110 in
the gasket to allow it to be retrofitted around a pipe 3. Gasket 9
may be built into container 1 or may be applied around pipe 3 in a
separate operation from the attachment of container 1 or container
pieces 8. Gasket 9 may also be utilized in original installations
to fit over pipe 3 prior to its connection with another pipe or
fitting.
[0326] In an embodiment, a container 1 attaches to a pipe 3 and/or
an angle valve 12, as shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B. Embodiments of
a piping attachment 13 allow attachment of a container 1 to a pipe
or a valve or other aspects of a piping system, where the piping
attachment 13 exhibits a form that fastens to a feature of a piping
system. In certain embodiments, the piping attachment is made of a
material that includes plastic, rubber, metal, among others. For
instance, as shown in FIG. 2D and FIG. 2E, a piping attachment 13
has a piping matching contour 51 with a protruding aspect 52. An
aspect of a piping system, such as a pipe 3, fits within the piping
matching contour 51, and the protruding aspects 52, such that the
container 1 associated with the piping attachment 13 is affixed to
said certain aspect of a piping system, such as a pipe 3. It will
be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the affixation of
said container 1 exhibiting said piping matching contour 51 and
said protruding aspect 52 may use one or more of a plurality of
fastening mechanisms including but limited to hardware, saddle
clamps, strap type attachment devices or the use of a semi-rigid
protruding aspects 52 which enable the snapping of said container 1
onto said pipe without the use of additional attachment devices. As
shown in FIGS. 2C and 2E, in either original or retrofit
applications, gasket 9 may be included to provide a liquid seal
between pipe 3 and container 1.
[0327] As illustrated in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2E, an embodiment of the
container bottom 10 allow embodiments of the container 1 to retain
a fluid if the piping system associated with the container has a
leak. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 2B and FIG. 2C, the bottom of the
container further has features to more effectively collect and
detect a fluid. In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2C, the
bottom of a container has a sloped aspect 25 to enable a liquid
substance within a container 1 to move from an upper region 27 to a
lower region 28 by force of gravity. In other embodiments, the
bottom of a container has a sloped aspect throughout, a flat region
throughout, or various combinations of sloping or flat regions.
[0328] In certain embodiments, the collection of a fluid in
specific portion of the container enables quicker detection of a
fluid leaking from a piping system, as compared to prior art fluid
detection apparatuses. A container 1 in certain embodiments of the
invention, and moreover, a sloped aspect 25 of said container 1,
allows a leaking fluid to collect within a certain portion of an
encapsulated area or partially encapsulated area of said container
1, thus allowing a sensor unit 2 to detect a leak of a fluid from
an aspect of a piping system as said leak occurs. It will be
appreciated that the bottom surface 10 of said container 1 may
exhibit features such as but not limited to channeling, raised
features and/or slope intended to direct the flow of fluid to a
localized area proximal to fluid detection device. It will be
appreciated that features relating to the bottom surface 10 is
further applicable to other embodiments of the invention.
Additionally, as shown in FIG. 2B and FIG. 2E, in certain
embodiments, the placement of a sensor opening 22 or a sensor unit
in the proximity of the lower region 28 of a sloped aspect 25
enables a sensor unit to detect a fluid accumulating near the lower
region of a sloped aspect 25.
[0329] In certain embodiments, a fluid carried by a piping system
has a higher density characteristic relative to the surrounding
medium, for instance, water carried in a pipe through an
environment of air at atmospheric pressure. In such cases, gravity
may act upon the type of fluid and a sloped aspect enables the
fluid to accumulate towards a certain region of certain embodiments
of the invention. In such an embodiment, the placement of a sensor
unit, sensor probe, or sensor opening is located proximal to the
region of fluid accumulation, typically at the lowest region within
a container. In other embodiments, the placement of a sensor unit,
sensor probe, or sensor opening may be in other regions of the
various embodiments of the invention as to detect the presence of a
fluid dependent on characteristics of said fluid.
[0330] In an embodiment in which a fluid carried through a piping
system in which said fluid exhibits a lower density relative to the
surrounding medium, such as hydrogen carried in piping through an
air filled environment at atmospheric pressure, a sensor unit,
sensor probe, or sensor opening may be placed in a different
region, such as proximal to the regions of fluid accumulation such
as the highest region within a container as to better detect
leaking of such fluid.
[0331] A "sensor unit," as referred to herein, are those used to
detect the presence of a fluid in a surrounding environment of
differing composition. Embodiments of a sensor unit comprise an
apparatus with a probe, circuitry associated with a probe, and a
signaler. As illustrated in a certain embodiment in FIG. 3A and
FIG. 3C, a sensor unit 2 comprises a sensor probe 19. In certain
embodiments, the sensor probe 19 is comprised of a conductivity
sensor, which may be used to detect the presence of fluids of
liquid form such as oils, water and other aqueous solutions. It
will be appreciated to those skilled in the art that a sensor probe
19 type may include, but is not limited to, a conductivity based
probe, a sampling device, palladium based sensor, optical fiber
sensor, electrochemical sensor, microelectromechanical sensor, film
sensor or photoelectric sensor, hydrometer.
[0332] In certain embodiments of the invention used for
substantially liquid form sensing with electrically conductive
characteristics, at least two electrodes comprising the sensor
probe utilize an open circuit. This open circuit provides sensing
enablement in that, when such a fluid bridges the gap between said
electrodes the circuit is closed, which provides signal to the
sensor unit to activate the alarm and/or notify the user. In some
embodiments, such electrodes may exhibit form of simple bare
conductive materials, such as two sensor probes 19 as shown in FIG.
3E. In other embodiments, such electrodes embody fine conductive
material or filament, embedded into a non-conductive substrate
wherein if moisture contacts the substrate, the electrodes are
bridged thereby providing signal to activate the alarm and/or
notify the user. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3F, there
is a bridging material 96 having a nonconductive property between
such electrodes or sensor probes 19, where a fluid absorbed by a
bridging material 96 the electrodes are bridged thereby providing
signal to activate the alarm and/or notify the user. In such case,
such bridging material increases the absorption, retention, and
transfer of a fluid by capillary action, and increases potential
detection of such fluid between sensor probes 19. It will be
appreciated that such embedded conductive material or filament
provides increased sensing surface area and increased flexibility
of sensing surface area to adapt to a variety of embodiments. It
will be further appreciated to those skilled in the art that the
orientation of electrodes having an embedded filament or conductive
material is immaterial provided that electrodes do not come in
contact or proximity sufficient to close the open circuit in the
absence of a leak.
[0333] In certain embodiments of the sensor unit, the sensor unit
affixes to a container 1 by securing an aspect of a sensor unit,
such as a sensor probe 19, through a sensor opening 22 as shown in
FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B and FIG. 4C, the sensor probe 19 being located
within or near the encapsulated area or partially encapsulated area
of a container 1. The placement of a sensor probe 19 within or near
an encapsulated area or partially encapsulated area of a container
enables embodiments of the sensor probe 19 to detect fluids that
are collected within or near a container 1. In certain embodiments
of the invention, the sensor unit 2 contains a probe mount 33, as
shown in FIG. 3D, where a sensor probe or a sensor probe connected
to a wire affixes to the probe mount.
[0334] In an embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4A, the
sensor unit 2 affixes to the container 1 intended for angled valves
referred to as an open design angle embodiment 31, and as shown in
FIG. 4B, the sensor unit 2 affixes to the container 1 intended for
vertical valves referred to as an open design vertical embodiment
30. The sensor unit 2 affixes to any form of container, such as the
containers disclosed herein, as to detect the level of the water
within or near the container. In such container or plurality of
containers, the sensor unit affixes in any number of ways. In one
embodiment, a part of or a whole of a sensor unit 2 fits within a
sensor opening 22 as shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B. In an
embodiment, a sensor probe 19 or plurality of such probes passes
across the thickness of a container wall 23 through sensor opening
22, such that a portion of the sensor probe is located within an
inner aspect 24 of a container, as shown in FIG. 4C.
[0335] In another embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 6A,
the sensor unit 2 affixes to a container 1 with a container
attachment 34. A container attachment 34, enables a sensor unit to
affix to certain aspects of a container 1, for example, with a
hook-like feature to the side of a container 1, as shown in an
embodiment in FIG. 6B. In certain embodiments of the invention, the
sensor unit 2 detects the fluid within the container 1 using at
least one probe wire 35, a probe wire 35 links a probe mount 33 to
a sensor probe, and such sensor probe is placed within a sensor
opening 22, as shown in FIG. 6B.
[0336] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6C, sensor unit 2 is
incorporated as part of container 1. Sensor unit 2 includes speaker
15, microprocessor unit 18, power source 21 and sensor probe 19
which may include wires 115 connected to or acting as probe 19. One
or more LED lights 116 may also be included to provide visual
notification to a user of fluid detected by sensor unit 2. Wires
115 can be soldered to the circuit board of sensor 2 and routed
over container 1 as shown in FIG. 6C or probes 19 may be routed
through a wall 23 of container 1 with wires 119 connecting them to
sensor unit 2. Probes 19 could also be rigid probes that extend
through a wall 23 of container 1 and are directly connected to
sensor 2. Probes 19 could be molded into container 1 during
fabrication thus reducing the potential for leaks where probes 19
pass through wall 23. Probes 19 could be hard mounted through the
sensor unit mount 17 and to sensor 2 eliminating the need for
soldering wires 115. In some embodiments, wires 115 can be routed
to additional containers to provide one sensor 2 for multiple
containers 1. For example, where there are multiple lines such as
hot/cold for a washing machine or other fixture, a single sensor
may be used with wires 115 connected to multiple containers and
sensors. In another embodiment, wires 115 may be routed to a
secondary sensor on the same container. This enables the detection
of a leak in various locations in the container in the event that
the container becomes re-oriented or dislodged such that the sloped
aspect 25 is altered with respect to the ground surface and the
fluid is routed to different portions of the container.
[0337] As illustrated in a certain embodiment as shown in FIG. 3A,
the sensor unit 2 further comprises of a microprocessor 18. A
microprocessor 18 is communicatively linked to other features such
as an alarm 20, the sensor probe 19, power source 21, and switch
16. By linking to such other features, the microprocessor 18
communicates water detected by a sensor probe 19 sensing a fluid to
signal fluid detection via an alarm 20. In certain embodiments, an
example of alarm 20 comprises an output to signal a user of the
presence of a fluid, for example, a speaker 15, as shown in FIG.
3B, FIG. 3C, FIG. 3D, and FIG. 6C. In certain embodiments, the
presence of a fluid by the sensor probe 19, results in the
microprocessor relaying information to a speaker to sound an
audible alarm. In other embodiments of the invention, detection of
a fluid by the sensor probe 19 relays a sensing event to other
examples of an alarm 20, for example, an LED that displays a visual
alarm, or a colorimetric indicator. LED could include a light pipe
taking light to a lens and the light could be directed into the
container 1 or at the pipe 3 or externally, to allow for the
easiest viewing by a user. Other examples of ways to alert a user
include wireless signals communicated through protocols such as
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, or radiofrequency, that may be further
associated with software or hardware that alert a user, for
example, smart-phone apps and web interfaces. Furthermore,
embodiments of the sensor unit are powered with a power source 21,
as shown in FIG. 3A, such as a battery 14 or battery backup 138 as
shown in FIG. 3B, FIG. 3C, FIG. 3D and FIG. 6C. In yet other
embodiments of the invention, the power source is provided from
external means such as, but not limited to alternating current
(AC), direct current (DC) or AC converted to DC power provided from
a power source such as a household outlet. In yet other embodiments
of the invention, the power source includes solar power provided by
a solar panel or an array of solar panels. Additionally, certain
embodiments of the invention further comprises a switch 16 to turn
on the sensor unit 2, as shown in FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B, FIG. 3C, and
FIG. 3D. The switch enables power and power consumption control
over the functioning of the sensor unit 2. In yet another
embodiment, the sensor unit has a setting to detect low-voltage or
low-battery from the power source 21 and provides an alert a user
that the sensor unit 2 may not function properly in the case of an
insufficient amount of electrical power going to the sensor unit 2.
In one embodiment, power source 21 may be a micro USB plug which
may be supplemented by a battery backup 138 such that the alarm may
activate in the event of a power disruption or if the communication
network goes offline.
[0338] In certain embodiments, the features of the sensor unit 2
are placed in or on a sensor unit mount 17, as shown in FIG. 3B,
FIG. 3C, and FIG. 3D. Features of the sensor unit 2 may affix to
said sensor unit mount 17 such that features related to a sensor
unit 2 are, as a whole, or in part, replaced with ease in relation
to the container in embodiments of the invention. In certain
embodiments, said sensor unit mount 17 comprises a printed circuit
board (PCB), wherein the features of sensor unit 2 are
electronically linked by the circuit board. Further, the
embodiments of the sensor unit 2 shown in FIG. 3B, FIG. 3C, FIG. 3D
and FIG. 6C are merely embodiments, and different sizes, shapes and
arrangements of the features comprising a sensor unit 2 may be
available. In some cases, such different sizes, shapes, and
arrangements of the sensor unit, sensor unit mount, or related
component may be necessary as to affix to certain embodiments of a
container. In yet another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5A, an open
design vertical embodiment 30 may be placed in relation to a piping
system in association with a fixture 29. In certain embodiments, as
shown in FIG. 5B, an open design angle embodiment 31 may be placed
in relation to a piping system in association with a fixture 29. In
such embodiments, a leak from the piping system or fixture located
above an embodiment may follow the path of a piping system, and
collect within the encapsulated region or partially encapsulated
region of container 1. In yet other embodiments, certain aspects of
said embodiments are closed for purposes including, but not limited
to aesthetics, fluid containment and fluid damage mitigation. As
shown in FIG. 7A through FIG. 7D, said certain embodiment of the
invention features an enclosed container 36, where an enclosed
container encapsulates or partially encapsulates features of a
piping system, such as a pipe 3 and a straight valve 4 in a
vertical orientation. In such embodiments, installation of an
enclosed container 36 to a piping system for retrofitting further
involves a union of at least two container pieces 8 by joining said
container pieces 8 at a joining edge 6 or a plurality of joining
edges 6, as shown in FIG. 7B. In certain embodiments, a sensor unit
affixes to an enclosed container 36 and senses fluid within or near
an enclosed container 36 through a sensor opening 22 as shown in
FIG. 7A, FIG. 7C and FIG. 7D. An enclosed container 36, in certain
embodiments of the invention, and moreover, a sloped aspect 25 of
an enclosed container 36, allows a leaking fluid to collect within
a certain portion of an encapsulated area or partially encapsulated
area of an enclosed container 36, thus allowing a sensor unit to
detect a leak of a fluid from an aspect of a piping system as said
leak occurs. Further, a gasket 9 placed between an enclosed
container 36 and a pipe 3 or valve prevents the flow of a fluid
through the interface between an enclosed container 36 and features
of a piping system.
[0339] In a certain embodiment of an open design vertical valve
retrofit application, at least one partial container piece fits
together to fit on an aspect of a piping system that includes
vertical valve, as shown in FIG. 26A. As shown in embodiments in
FIG. 26B and FIG. 26C, two partial container pieces 8 are matingly
joined at joining edges 6, where a partial container piece further
includes a piping matching contour 51. Joining of partial container
pieces 8 further creates an opening 11, as shown in an embodiment
in FIG. 26B. In an embodiment as shown in FIG. 26D, a pipe-matching
contour 51 of each partial container pieces 8 accommodates the
shape of a gasket 9, where such gasket further surrounds a portion
of a piping system such as a pipe 3, so that such gasket prevents
flow of a fluid between partial container pieces 8 and a pipe 3. As
further shown in FIG. 26B and FIG. 26E, embodiments of partial
container pieces 8 are attached together with a fastening feature
37. In embodiments, a fastening feature 37 allows assembly of a
plurality of container pieces in combination with one another, and
may include a clasp, hook, latch, hose clamp, clip, magnets, and/or
other fastening features as appreciated by those skilled in the
art. Further, in some embodiments union of such joining edges 6 of
partial container pieces 8 is achieved by an interference fit,
and/or further placing a sealing material or coating between the
faces of the joining edges.
[0340] In a certain embodiment of the invention, an enclosed
container 36 is retrofitted to the form of existing piping system
features, as further shown in FIG. 8A. An embodiment of an enclosed
container 36 shown in FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B may include at least one
container piece 8, wherein said container pieces 8 are attached
together with a fastening feature 37. In embodiments of the
invention, a fastening feature 37 allows assembly of a plurality of
container pieces in combination with one another, and may include a
clasp, hook, hose clamp, latch, clip, magnets, and/or other
fastening features as appreciated by those skilled in the art. An
embodiment of a fastening feature, such as a snap fit, as shown in
FIG. 8F and FIG. 8G embodiment, engages more than one container
piece together. An example of a snap fit has a flexible tab 44 of
one partial container piece 8, such flexible tab being pliant, such
flexible tab further containing a ridge-engaging tooth 86, engages
when placed in a depression 45 of another partial container pieces
8.
[0341] As shown in FIG. 8A and FIG. 8C, two or more container
pieces 8 joined together at the joining edges 6 can create the form
of an enclosed container 36 embodiment. Further, an enclosed
container 36 embodiment has openings 11, as shown in FIG. 8A and
FIG. 8C, to accommodate some features of a piping system. As shown
in FIG. 8D and FIG. 8E, the enclosed container 36 further
accommodates features of a piping system, such as a pipe 3 or
straight valve 4, or portions of an operating handle 7 enabling
fluid sensing without limiting or encumbering the operation or
actuation of said operation handle 7. As shown in FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B,
and FIG. 8C, a certain embodiment of an enclosed container 36 has
an adjustable face 109, where a portion or a whole of such
adjustable face 109 may be removed to accommodate an operating
handle stem 108 of different sizes and shapes. In other
embodiments, an adjustable face 109 may be flexible and have the
ability to stretch and accommodate different sized operating handle
stems 108. As shown in FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B, a gasket 9 ensures that
a fluid encapsulated by or partially encapsulated by an enclosed
container 36 does not leak to the exterior of said container while
accommodating the features of a piping system. In certain
embodiments, a sensor unit or a sensor probe attached to a sensor
opening 22 detects the fluid accumulating in the area encapsulated
by or partially encapsulated by an enclosed container 36, notifying
a user if a leak has occurred in the area associated with such
enclosed container 36. In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 8D,
and FIG. 8E, an enclosed container 36 encloses portions of a pipe 3
and a straight valve 4, and further keeps an operating handle 7
exposed. In such embodiments, a user can still control the flow of
a fluid through a valve by turning said operating handle, without
the need to remove the enclosed container 36. In certain
embodiments, a sensor unit affixes to an enclosed container 36 and
senses fluid within or near an enclosed container 36 through a
sensor opening 22 as shown in FIG. 8A, FIG. 8C and FIG. 8D.
[0342] In yet another embodiment of the invention, features of a
piping system, including an operating handle of a valve, are
encapsulated. As shown in FIG. 9A, an operating handle container 39
further encapsulates an operating handle 7 associated with a valve.
In some embodiments, one or more operating handle container waists
40 of an operating handle container 39, as shown in FIG. 9A, FIG.
9B, and FIG. 9C, enables a user to turn the operating handle that
is enclosed by said operating handle container 39 while retaining
the ability to collect a fluid within the area enclosed by such
assembly. In such embodiment, an operating handle container 39 is
coaxial with the axis of rotation of said operating handle 7 and an
aperture of said enclosed container 36. In an embodiment of the
invention, when a user turns an operating handle container 39 along
a rotational axis, an operating handle container waist 40
interfaces with features of operating handle 7. For example, an
elongated portion of said operating handle 7 interfaces with the
operating handle container waist 40, such that a user can turn the
operating handle container 39 thereby turning and actuation the
operating handle 7 in order to control the flow of a fluid through
a valve. In such embodiments, an operating handle container 39 is
made of a rigid or semi-rigid material having the form capable of
catching and turning an operating handle of a valve. Examples of a
rigid material include any variety of plastics, polymers, rubber,
and metal. In certain embodiments, a sensor unit affixes to an
enclosed container 36 and senses fluid within or near an enclosed
container 36 or an operating handle container 39 through a sensor
opening 22 as shown in FIG. 9A, and FIG. 9B.
[0343] In another certain embodiment of the invention, an
encapsulating assembly may be made of a flexible material such that
a user can turn a valve that is encapsulated by or partially
encapsulated by such assembly. An embodiment of a flexible
encapsulation assembly 48 fits the general form of a straight valve
4, as shown in FIG. 13A, FIG. 13B, FIG. 13C, FIG. 18A, and FIG.
18B. In other embodiments, a flexible encapsulation assembly may be
used for other types of valves, such as an angled valve, or
fitting, or other connections associated with a piping system. An
embodiment of a flexible encapsulation assembly 48 may be made of a
material that has elastic characteristics that a user's hand 49 can
squeeze, and grip a portion of a piping system such as an operating
handle 7, as to allow turning of an operating handle, as shown in
FIG. 13B and FIG. 13C. Materials that embodiments of the invention
may be made of include, but are not limited to rubber, silicone,
elastomers, or a combination of such materials. In certain
embodiments, a portion of a flexible encapsulation assembly may be
comprised of one material, for example, a portion that covers the
operating handle, while another portion of a flexible encapsulation
assembly is comprised of another material, for example, a portion
that covers a valve. In such cases, the portions of a flexible
encapsulation assembly may be two distinct pieces assembled
together, or dual injection molded. In an embodiment, a flexible
encapsulation assembly 48 has a slit 71 that allows a flexible
encapsulation assembly to fit over existing plumbing, such as a
vertical valve 4 and pipe 3, as shown in FIG. 18A and FIG. 18B.
Certain embodiments of a flexible encapsulation assembly 48 include
a sensor opening 22 such that a sensor unit may be placed through a
sensor opening 22 and detect a fluid encapsulated by or partially
encapsulated by a flexible encapsulation assembly 48, as shown in
FIG. 13A, FIG. 13C, and FIG. 18A.
[0344] Embodiments of the invention include implementation for
horizontally orientated piping system features. A straight valve in
the horizontal orientation, as shown in FIG. 10A can be
encapsulated by or partially encapsulated by partial container
parts in a certain embodiment including an enclosed straight
container 42 or an enclosed straight container 42 and an enclosed
straight cap 43. The joining edges 6 of an enclosed straight
container 42 and an enclosed straight cap 43 are joined and secured
with a fastening feature, such as a flexible tab 44 further
containing a ridge-engaging tooth and depression 45, as shown in
the exploded view of a certain embodiment in FIG. 10A comprising a
potential snap-fit assembly feature. As further shown in an
embodiment in FIG. 10B, a portion of a flexible tab 44, having a
ridge-engaging tooth, fits in a depression 45, and a plurality of
such fastening features secures an enclosed straight container 42
and an enclosed straight cap 43. It will be appreciated that such
snap-fit assembly features enable ease of repetitive assembly and
disassembly to enable installation, maintenance and quick access to
the operating lever 7 as desired by the user. Further, as shown in
FIG. 10A, FIG. 10B, FIG. 10C, FIG. 11A, and FIG. 11B, embodiments
of partial container parts such as an enclosed straight container
42 and/or an enclosed straight cap 43 has a face seal 72 or more
than one face seal along a joining edge 6 so that the interface
between joining edges is sealed. It will be appreciated that
embodiments of a face seal may comprise of one or more materials
including but not limited to materials polymeric, metallic, and/or
organic in nature. Some examples of materials used in the
manufacture of face seals include but are not limited to rubber,
nitrile, buna, neoprene, silicone, metal or a plastic polymer such
as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyether ether ketone (PEEK),
urethane, or ethylene propylene. In certain embodiments of the
invention, a face seal is a material such as rubber or silicone or
a combination of such materials or other materials having sealing
properties known to persons having skill in the art. Further,
embodiments of a joining edge may be further sealed with a sealant,
where a sealant is a substance blocking a passage of a fluid
including on a surface or between edges or in openings, generally
known to those having skill in the art. Examples of sealants
include, but are not limited to silicone sealant, rubber sealant,
polyurethane sealant, latex sealant, sealcoat, foam, adhesive
sealant, or polytetrafluoroethylene, among others.
[0345] As shown in FIG. 10A, FIG. 11A, and FIG. 11B, a gasket 9
embodiment is placed on a piping system feature, such that when an
enclosed straight container 42 and an enclosed straight cap 43 are
fastened together around a pipe 3, the gasket seals a piping
matching contour 51 of an enclosed straight container 42, piping
matching contour 51 of an enclosed straight cap 43 and the pipe 3
as shown in an embodiment in FIG. 10A. Those skilled in the art can
appreciate that embodiments of the invention may be implemented on
valves in a number of different ways. For instance, the operating
handle of a straight valve in the horizontal orientation may be
found or installed at any angle of rotation, relative to the
longitudinal axis of a piping system. In such case, embodiments of
the enclosed straight container and enclosed straight cap, and
other features of other embodiments may be oriented in a way to
accommodate various angles of rotations of piping features. For
instance, as shown in FIG. 10C, an embodiment of an enclosed
straight container and an enclosed straight cap are placed at an
angle. Further, while FIG. 10C provides an embodiment where a
sensor unit 2 is placed on an enclosed straight cap 43, those
skilled in the art would appreciate that a sensor unit 2 may be
placed in a number of different locations of an enclosed straight
container or an enclosed straight cap, as to accommodate the
various angles and orientations that an enclosed straight container
and an enclosed straight cap are set.
[0346] As shown in FIG. 10A, FIG. 10B, FIG. 10C, FIG. 11A, and FIG.
11B, certain embodiments of an enclosed straight container 42
and/or an enclosed straight cap 43 have a removable piece 73 or a
plurality of removable pieces. In some cases, for new plumbing
installations, removable piece 73 may be removed from enclosed
straight container 42 and/or an enclosed straight cap 43, and
features of a piping system may be placed through an aperture that
is left behind by such removal of removable piece 73. Having a
removable piece has a number of added benefits to embodiments of
the invention, such as being able to create one particular design
of an embodiment of the invention that can fit any number of piping
system configurations, such as junctions that are angled. Further,
such removable piece, when removed from an enclosed straight
container 42 and/or an enclosed straight cap 43, may serve as an
additional opening for an additional pipe, hose, sensor unit or
other objects to access an area encapsulated by an enclosed
straight container 42 and/or an enclosed straight cap 43. It will
be appreciated that other embodiments of the invention, including
but not limited to an enclosed straight container 42 and/or an
enclosed straight cap 43, may include a removable piece 73 or a
plurality of removable pieces 73.
[0347] In another embodiment, referring to FIGS. 10D and 10E,
container 1 may include gasket 9 and/or elastomeric seal 139 to
allow container 1 to be attached to pipe 3 beneath valve 4. Gasket
9 has slit 110 to allow the gasket to be slipped around pipe 3 to
sealingly attach container 1 to pipe 3 in retrofit applications.
Elastomeric seal 139 may also be included alone or with gasket 9 to
snap onto pipe 3 and allow container 1 to be attached thereto as
shown in FIG. 10E. Fluid leaks from valve 4 may drip into container
1 and be detected by sensor unit 2.
[0348] As further shown in FIG. 11B, embodiments of the enclosed
straight container and enclosed straight cap may be used for
straight valves in the vertical orientation. In certain
embodiments, an enclosed straight container includes a partial
container part comprising an access port 47 that enables a user to
access an operating handle 7 or other aspects of a straight valve 4
by removing an access panel 46, rather than requiring the
disassembly of the container, as shown in FIG. 11A. As shown in the
embodiments in FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B, the access port 47 and access
panel 46 are located on aspects of the enclosed straight container
42. It will be appreciated that other embodiments of the invention,
including, but not limited to an enclosed straight container 42
and/or an enclosed straight cap 43, may include an access port and
access panel or a plurality of access ports and access panels. By
including an access port, users are able to, for instance, shut off
or open valves that may be enclosed by certain aspects of the
invention. Further, by enclosing aspects of a piping system, any
leaks of a fluid may be captured within the encapsulated area or
partially encapsulated area of such assembly as to quickly detect
leaks from a piping system.
[0349] In various embodiments of the invention, an access panel
covers an access port in different ways. As shown in FIG. 19A, FIG.
19B, and FIG. 19C, showing a certain embodiment in a cross
sectional view, an access panel 46 fits within the opening of an
access port 47. In a certain embodiment of the invention, an access
panel and access port come together in a press-fit assembly,
allowing repetitive assembly and disassembly for quick access to an
operating lever 7 as desired by the user. As shown in FIG. 19A,
FIG. 19B and FIG. 19C, placing an access panel 46 to cover access
port 47 includes locating a portion of an access panel 46,
comprising a lid gasket 74, on access port 47. A lid gasket 74,
having similarity with other gaskets known to those skilled in the
art, comprises a flexible material. In certain embodiments of the
invention, an access panel, and related components such as a lid
gasket and an access port interface is of the same material.
However, it can be appreciated that an access panel and/or an
access port interface is an inflexible material such as certain
plastics, certain recycled or recyclable plastic, metal, wood,
polymers, among others, and a lid gasket comprises a flexible
material. It will be appreciated that embodiments of a lid gasket
is made of one or more materials including but not limited to
materials polymeric, metallic, and/or organic in nature. Some
examples of materials used in the manufacture of a lid gasket
include but are not limited to rubber, nitrile, buna, neoprene,
silicone, metal or a plastic polymer such as
polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyether ether ketone (PEEK),
urethane, or ethylene propylene. In certain embodiments of the
invention, a lid gasket is a material such as rubber or silicone or
a combination of such materials or other materials having sealing
properties known to persons having skill in the art.
[0350] As shown in a close-up view of an access panel/access port
assembly 76 of an access panel attachment site embodiment in FIG.
19A, FIG. 19B and FIG. 19C, an access panel 46 further includes an
access port interface 75 having a perimeter with a shape and size
similar to an access port. As shown in FIG. 19B, an access port
interface 75 fits inside an access port, and a lid gasket 74
protrudes and follows the contour of an access port interface 75,
thus a lid gasket seals the interface between an access panel and
access port, as further shown in FIG. 19C. In certain embodiments
of the invention, an access panel includes a tab 77, as shown in
FIG. 19A, FIG. 19B, FIG. 19C, and FIG. 19D so that there is a
gripping and/or leverage feature for removal of an access panel
from an access port. In certain embodiments, an access panel
includes a plurality of tabs, or a tab that spans the perimeter of
an access panel.
[0351] In other aspects, connections are associated with a number
of other types of piping systems that carry other types of fluids.
Certain embodiments of the invention detect leaks from other
aspects of a piping system, such as a pipe connection. As shown in
FIG. 12A, FIG. 12B, and FIG. 12C, an embodiment of a closed design
vertical fitting application encapsulates or partially encapsulates
a certain type of pipe connection, and detects leaks associated
with a certain type of pipe connection. As shown in FIG. 12B, and
FIG. 12C, an exemplary fitting such as a compression fitting
further includes components such as a coupling 41, compression
ring, compression seat, pipe 3 and compression nut 50. As shown in
FIG. 12D, an enclosed vertical fitting cover 53 further fits over a
fitting, and affixes to a vertical fitting container base 54
embodiment to encapsulate or partially encapsulate a fitting. As
shown in FIG. 12D, an enclosed vertical fitting cover 53 embodiment
affixes to a vertical fitting container base 54 embodiment by an
interference fit, such as a tapered interference fit. In an
embodiment of the invention, a vertical fitting base 54 that
includes a wedge 38 forms a tapered interference fit with a inner
edge 78 of an enclosed vertical fitting cover 53, as shown in FIG.
12C. Embodiments of a vertical fitting container base 54 include a
hole 11 that accommodates gasket 9, as shown in FIG. 12C, wherein a
central opening of a gasket 9 further accommodates a pipe 3 or
other features of a piping system. An embodiment of an enclosed
vertical fitting cover 53 includes an opening in which a pipe 3 or
other features of a piping system fits. An embodiment of an
enclosed vertical fitting cover 53 also includes a sensor opening
22, to which a sensor unit 2 can attach, as shown in FIG. 12D and
FIG. 12A. The three-dimensional shape of an enclosed vertical
fitting cover 53 and a vertical fitting container base 54 together
create a space 55 surrounding a fitting. Leaks of a fluid from a
fitting or a pipe in the area of a space 55 are collected within a
space 55 and detected by a sensor unit 2.
[0352] In a certain embodiment of the invention, leaks from more
than one connection may be detected. In an exemplary embodiment
shown in FIG. 14A, FIG. 14B, and FIG. 14C, a dual horizontal
connector container 56 accommodates a plurality of connectors, such
as a plurality of horizontal fittings 61. As shown in FIG. 14C, a
horizontal fitting 61 passes through an opening 11 found on a
container wall 23 of an embodiment of a dual horizontal connector
container 56. A pipe 3 extending from a horizontal fitting 61
further rests on a hose protector 60 of a dual horizontal connector
container 56 embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14A, FIG. 14B, and FIG.
14C A certain embodiment features a dual horizontal connector lid
57, as shown in FIG. 14B that is placed on the top portion of a
dual horizontal connector container 56 embodiment. In another
embodiment, a dual horizontal connector lid with stabilizers 58 has
stabilizers 59, and such stabilizer further contains a piping
matching contour 51, as shown in FIG. 14C, as to fit around pipe 3.
A dual horizontal connector container 56 embodiment has a sensor
opening 22 that a sensor unit 2 can attach, as shown in FIG. 14A,
FIG. 14B, and FIG. 14C. The three-dimensional shape of a dual
horizontal connector container 56 embodiment and a dual horizontal
connector lid 57 or a dual horizontal connector lid with
stabilizers 58 together create a space 55 surrounding a fitting, as
exemplified in FIG. 14C. Leaks of a fluid from a fitting or a pipe
in the area of a space 55 is collected within a space 55 and
detected by a sensor unit 2, in certain embodiment of the
invention.
[0353] In certain cases, a leak from a piping system component can
travel along another piping system component. For instance, in one
example, a leak in a one piping system component, such as a
connector, valve, or junction, or within a pipe or hose itself, can
travel along an associated pipe or hose. In a certain embodiment of
the invention, a leak of a fluid that travels along an associated
pipe or hose is further collected with a sleeve 64. In certain
embodiments, as shown in FIG. 15A, FIG. 15B, FIG. 15C, FIG. 15D,
and FIG. 15E, a sleeve 64 allows the expansion and contraction of
the span of plumbing monitored by the invention. Certain
embodiments include one or more ring plates 62 and a bellows 63
enabling the expansion and contraction along the axis of the
opening 11 while allowing articulation along multiple axes. As
shown in FIG. 15A, a sleeve 64 is assembled with a ring plate 62
attached to a both ends of a bellows 63. As shown in FIG. 15D and
FIG. 15E, an embodiment of a bellows 63 has a tubular form having
an opening larger than the piping system component that a bellows
63 encapsulates or partially encapsulates. In a certain embodiment,
a bellows 63 has pleats 65, as shown in FIG. 15C, as to compact a
bellows 63. In embodiments of the invention, a bellows 63 is made
of a material such as plastic, recycled or recyclable plastic,
silicone, foam, metal, and/or rubber, among others. In a certain
embodiment, a bellows 63 is made of a non-rigid material
impermeable to a fluid. Further, a bellows end 66 is affixed to a
ring plate 62, as shown in FIG. 15E, for example, with an adhesive.
In another embodiment, a bellows end is grasped using features of a
ring plate 62, such as a bellows end inserted between two or more
partial ring plate pieces and such partial ring plate pieces
secured to one another. In a certain embodiment, a bellows 63 has a
slit 71, where such embodiment of a sleeve 64 can be installed on
existing piping systems or existing plumbing, as shown in FIGS.
16A, 16B 21A and 21B. In such certain embodiment, a bellows 63 is
made of a material such as silicone, rubber, foam, plastics,
recycled materials, metal, and other materials. In a certain
embodiment, a slit 71 in bellows 63, as shown in FIGS. 16A, 16B,
21A and 21B is closed by a self-clinging material such as silicone,
or an adhesive such as tape, self-adhesive coating, caulk, glue, or
a fastening mechanism for two sides of such slit such as buttons,
zippers, snap fasteners, hook-and-loop, may be used to collect and
detect a fluid potentially leaking from a piping system. Further,
in certain embodiments as shown in FIGS. 16A, 16B, 21A and 21B, a
ring plate 62 further includes a slit 71, where the entire sleeve
assembly 64 is able to fit over an existing piping system or
existing plumbing, as shown in FIG. 21A.
[0354] Certain embodiments of a ring plate 62 or two-opening plate
67 has a membrane 83, as shown in FIG. 20A, FIG. 20B, and FIG. 20C.
Embodiments of a membrane is made of a flexible material, where a
membrane has one or more materials including but not limited to
materials polymeric, metallic, and/or organic in nature. Some
examples of materials used in the manufacture of a membrane include
but are not limited to rubber, nitrile, buna, neoprene, silicone,
metal or a plastic polymer such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE),
polyether ether ketone (PEEK), urethane, or ethylene propylene. In
certain embodiments of the invention, a membrane is a material such
as rubber or silicone or a combination of such materials or other
materials having flexible properties. As shown in FIG. 20A, an
embodiment of a ring plate 62 includes a membrane 83, where a
membrane 83 has an opening to accommodate features of a piping
system. As shown in a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a
ring plate 62 in FIG. 20D, a ring plate 62 includes a membrane
housing 84 on the interior region of such ring plate. A membrane 83
placed within a membrane housing 84 keeps a membrane 83 in place
while a user installs a sleeve over aspects of a piping system. In
an embodiment of the invention, a ring plate further comprises a
partial ring plate piece 85. As illustrated in FIG. 20E, a membrane
83 is contained between two partial ring plate pieces 85. In
certain embodiments, a bellow may also be placed between such
partial ring plate pieces as to secure a ring plate assembly to a
bellow. In some embodiments, a ring plate, or a two opening plate
lacks a membrane. In some embodiments, a ring plate 62, or a two
opening plate 67 has a functional characteristic of a membrane. As
shown in FIG. 20C, a membrane ring plate 82 may serve the function
similar as a ring plate, attaching to bellows and having an opening
11 to accommodate features of a piping system, such as the threaded
region 81 of a male adapter 80.
[0355] Pulling two ring plates 62 apart, hence pulling a bellows
along its longitudinal axis, as shown in an embodiment in FIG. 15D,
expands the region of a piping system that a sleeve 64 encapsulates
or partially encapsulates, as shown in FIG. 15E. In certain
embodiments, a sleeve 64 is secured to features of a piping system
by fastening a ring plate between a female adapter 79 and male
adapter 80, as shown in FIG. 20C and FIG. 20D. An opening 11 of a
ring plate 62 or a two-opening plate 67 accommodates a threaded
region 81 of a male adapter 80, and such ring plate 62 or a
two-opening plate 67 is secured by screwing a male adapter 80 to a
female adapter 79 where such female adapter 79 has threading
corresponding to a threaded region 81 of a male adapter 80. It is
appreciated that a female adapter, as known in the art, can
accommodate a male adapter, where an example of a female adapter
can include a threaded nut. In another certain embodiment, a caulk,
sealant, cement, glue, tape, or other adhesive is placed on a
surface of a ring plate 62 or a two-opening plate 67, and such ring
plate 62 or a two-opening plate 67 is pressed against a surface to
seal the interface between such ring plate 62 or a two-opening
plate 67 and such surface.
[0356] In certain embodiments, a ring plate comprises an opening.
Embodiments of a ring plate are not limited to a form resembling a
circle or toroid, as other shapes, such as an ellipse, polygon,
arbelos, superelipse, oval, ovoid, asteroid, and others comprising
an opening may be used. In a certain embodiment, a sleeve 64 or a
portion of a sleeve 64 includes more than one opening to
accommodate more than one piping system component or more than one
piping system line, as shown in FIG. 16A, FIG. 16B, FIG. 16C, FIG.
16D, and FIG. 16E. For instance, as shown in FIG. 16A, FIG. 16B,
FIG. 16C, FIG. 16D, and FIG. 16E, a sleeve embodiment 64 has a
double-opening plate 67 located at each distal end of a bellows 63,
where such double-opening plate has two openings. In other
embodiments, a ring plate may include one or more piping matching
contours. In exemplary drawings FIG. 16C and FIG. 16D, an appliance
29 has two pipes 3 connected to two respective shut-off valves 68,
further shown with a wall-mounted assembly 69, where one pipe 3 may
be located adjacent to another pipe 3. A sleeve 64 embodiment, as
shown in FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B may further have one or more
two-opening plates 67, where such two-opening plate contains two
openings 11. In a certain embodiment of a sleeve 64, adjacently
located pipes 3 are fitted through each of the openings 11 of the
sleeve 64 assembly, as shown in FIG. 16D during installation of
such pipes or appliance. Because embodiments of the bellows 63 is
collapsed, a user may pull each two-opening plate 67, and expand
the region of a piping system that a sleeve 64 encapsulates or
partially encapsulates, as shown in FIG. 16E. In some embodiments a
slit 71 as shown in FIG. 16A may be included in sleeve 64,
including plates 67 and bellows 63, to allow sleeve 64 to be
retrofit onto two pipes 3. That is, slit 71 allows plate 67 and
bellows 63 to be opened to allow pipes 3 to slide through slit 71
into opening 11 such that sleeve 64 and could then be expanded over
the length of pipes 3.
[0357] In embodiments of the invention, a sensor unit 2 may be
placed on a sleeve 64, as shown in FIG. 15E. In one example, a
sensor opening may be created along a bellows 63 and accommodate a
sensor feature or part of a sensor feature, as to detect leaks
along a pipe. In such case, such sensor opening receives a portion
of a sensor unit, such as sensor probes, to detect fluid in an area
encapsulated by a sleeve. In another example, a sensor unit may be
water-resistant for applications where a fluid is water or
water-based, such that such sensor unit may be placed within an
area encapsulated by a sleeve, and still function when a fluid
comes in contact with such sensor unit. In such embodiment, a
leaking fluid along a piping system captured by a sleeve, may be
detected by a sensor unit and a notification sent to a user.
[0358] FIG. 31 illustrates an alternate embodiment. Referring to
FIG. 31A, a sleeve 64 is shown in an expanded state with bellows 63
including pleats 65. In this embodiment, a slit 71 extending along
the entire length of sleeve 64 permits easy retrofitting of sleeve
64 over existing fluid conduit systems such as a piping system.
Slit 71 extends along a sleeve funnel 111 at the upper end of
sleeve 64 and a ring cup 62 at lower end of sleeve 64. Sleeve 64
may be made of an elastomeric material such that sleeve 64 may be
separated along slit 71 to allow sleeve 64 to fit around the
existing piping system without disconnecting the piping system to
allow easy retrofit installation on existing systems.
[0359] Referring to FIG. 31B, sleeve 64 is shown in combination
with container 1. In this embodiment, sleeve 64 may be separated
along slit 71 to fit over an existing piping system and container 1
may be assembled below ring plate 62 in two pieces as previously
described or may be a deformable container to fit around piping
system as will also be described herein. Container 1 may be
connected to, or otherwise releasably associated with, ring plate
62 by connecting arm 113 such that container 1 and sleeve 64 may or
may not be installed together and function as a single unit or they
may function separately with separate sensors 2.
[0360] As shown in FIG. 31C, the combination of sleeve 64 and
container 1 may be assembled over pipe 3 such that slit 71 faces
away from the expected path of any leaking water or other fluid.
For example, slit 71 is kept above pipe bend area 112 to allow any
leaking fluid from funnel 111 to be transported by gravity into
container 1. Similarly, any leaking fluid from straight valve 4
would also be deposited in container 1. Sleeve funnel 111 at the
upper portion of sleeve 64 allows leaking fluid from the fixture
connection 114 in piping system 3 (for example to the fixture 29 in
FIG. 5) to be caught by funnel 111 and transported by gravity into
sleeve 64 and thence to container 1.
[0361] FIG. 31D is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 31C.
Sleeve 64 and container 1 are shown installed adjacent pipe 3.
Container 1 is located under valve 4 and sleeve 64 such that water
or other fluid from pipe 3 or other fixture connections 114 may be
transported into container 1 and detected as described herein.
Container 1 includes gasket 9 to ensure a seal of container 1
around pipe 3. Gasket 9 may be a split seam gasket so as to be
snapped around pipe 3 separately or it may be in two portions which
are each built into a portion of container 1 and seal when
container 1 is assembled onto pipe 3. For new builds or
installations, gasket 9 may be slipped over piping 3 along with, or
as part of, container 1, prior to connection of the piping.
[0362] In other embodiments of the invention, a fluid from a piping
system is detected in combination with a sleeve as shown in FIG.
22A and FIG. 22B. A sleeve and container assembly 88 includes the
features of a sleeve, which expands to encapsulate features of a
piping system, and a closed design vertical container, which
further includes an encapsulated area that retains fluid leaked
from such piping system. A sensor unit 2 detects and alarms a leak
of a fluid from such piping system. In certain embodiments such as
shown in FIGS. 22A and 22B, a sleeve and container assembly 88
(including 32 as shown in FIGS. 17 A-E) is associated with a
fixture 29 by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of the
fixture. By associating with fixture 29, a sleeve and container
assembly 88 is able to detect leakage of a fluid going into or
going out of a fixture, for example, through an associated pipe,
junction, connection, hose, valve and other components related to a
piping system. It should be expressly understood that all
embodiments described herein may be built into a fixture 29 by the
manufacturer. For example, manufacturers of refrigerators, washing
machines, dish washers, water fountains, coffee makers, ice makers,
and industrial pumps and valves may build the embodiments described
herein into the fixture as part of the manufacturing process. As
also described herein, various embodiments may also be retrofitted
after manufacture.
[0363] A closed design vertical container 32, in certain
embodiments of the invention, is shown in FIG. 17A, FIG. 17C, FIG.
17D, and FIG. 17E. As shown in FIG. 17A and FIG. 17E, a sensor unit
2 can attach and detect fluid leakage within an area encapsulated
by a closed design vertical container 32 by placement of a sensor
probe through a sensor opening 22, where a sensor opening 22 is
located within a flat aspect 70 of such closed design vertical
container 32. A closed design vertical container 32 includes an
opening 11 located at the bottom, as shown in FIG. 17B and FIG.
17C, and an opening at the top, as shown in FIG. 17A, FIG. 17B, and
FIG. 17E. Therefore, in certain embodiments of the invention, a
passage is created through the closed design vertical container 32
as shown in a cross-sectional view of an embodiment shown in FIG.
17D, such that a feature of a piping system, such as a pipe, pipe,
junction, connection, hose, valve and other components related to a
piping system passes through such passage associated with a closed
design vertical container 32. In certain embodiments, a gasket 9
may be placed on one or more openings 11 adjacent piping 3. In
other embodiments, a closed design vertical container 32 comprises
a flexible material having sealing properties when pressed against
features of a piping system. In certain embodiments, an unsealed
region between an opening and a feature of a piping allows water to
pass from one region to another region. In one example, an opening
gap 91 allows fluid from a bellows 63 region of a sleeve to pass
into a closed design vertical container 32, as shown in FIG. 23D,
so that such fluid can be detected by a sensor unit 2 shown in FIG.
23D, associated with closed design vertical container 32. It is
appreciated that in embodiments of the invention, a fluid
accumulates within the area encapsulated by a container assembly 88
including a closed design vertical container 32 and a sleeve 64, as
shown in an embodiment in FIG. 23B, and it is advantageous having a
gasket or seal 9 at some openings 11, and having an unsealed region
at some openings as to regulate the flow of a fluid through certain
embodiments of the invention.
[0364] In certain embodiments of the invention, a closed design
vertical container 32 further includes a closed design vertical
container neck 89 and a closed design vertical container body 90,
as shown in FIG. 17A. In such embodiments, a closed design vertical
container neck 89 and a closed design vertical container body 90
are made of a same material. In other embodiments, a closed design
vertical container neck 89 and a closed design vertical container
body 90 are made of different materials. A closed design vertical
container neck 89 may be fixed, attached, fit, or otherwise adhered
reversibly or irreversibly to a closed design vertical container
body 90 or dual-injection molded. In other embodiments, a closed
design vertical container neck 89 and a closed design vertical
container body 90 is a single piece.
[0365] A groove 87 is located near the top of a closed design
vertical container 32, as shown in certain embodiments in FIG. 17A,
FIG. 17B, FIG. 17C, FIG. 17D, and FIG. 17E. In certain embodiments,
a groove is located on a closed design vertical container neck 89.
In embodiments of the invention, a groove being able to accommodate
a mating portion having a shape and size that fits such groove, may
be found on a number of interfaces, such as between a closed design
vertical container 32 and a sleeve, or between two joining edges,
among other interfaces that join two pieces. In embodiments of the
invention, such groove and mating portion may form a gasketing
interface as to prevent fluid flowing through such interface.
[0366] As shown in FIG. 23A, FIG. 23B, FIG. 23C, FIG. 23D, FIG.
24A, FIG. 24B, FIG. 24C, and FIG. 24D, an embodiment of a sleeve 64
attaches to a closed design vertical container 32. For example,
during a new plumbing installation, a closed design vertical
container 32 and a sleeve 64 are placed over a pipe 3, as shown in
FIG. 23A and FIG. 24A. In such example of a plumbing installation,
a pipe junction may further include components of a fitting that
can be disassembled from a pipe, for example, female adapters, male
adapters, nuts, ferrules, o-rings, compression fittings and others
known by those skilled in the art. By disassembly such components,
a closed design vertical container 32 can slide over a pipe. A ring
plate 62 further comprising a membrane 83, which may be flexible,
as shown in FIG. 20A, may be slipped over existing features of a
piping system such as a female adapter 79 or male adapter 80 shown
in FIG. 23B and FIG. 24B. It can be appreciated that a membrane 83
having flexibility enables a user to fit over and further create a
seal or a partial seal as to encapsulate a portion of a piping
system with certain embodiments of the invention. Further, a sleeve
64 which is contracted, as shown in FIG. 23A and FIG. 24B, can be
expanded over a portion of a piping system, as shown in FIG. 23B
and FIG. 24B. In certain embodiments of the invention, a ring plate
62, as shown in FIG. 23C, is fitted between features of a piping
system, such as between a male adapter 80 and a female adapter 79,
where for example, a male adapter may screw into a female adapter.
It will be appreciated that the orientation of such adapters is not
necessarily of importance, and such junction may further include,
but are not limited to components such as couplings, compression
nuts, o-rings, crimp-rings, and others. It will also be appreciated
that other features of a piping system, including but not limited
to compression fittings, valve stems, nuts, and other components
may be used to affix a sleeve 64 or a portion of a sleeve 64
embodiment to such piping system.
[0367] Further, a sleeve affixes to a closed design vertical
container 32, as shown in FIG. 23D, where a ring plate 62
embodiment fits with a groove 87 embodiment of a closed design
vertical container 32. Together, a sleeve and container assembly
88, as shown in an embodiment in FIG. 23B or FIG. 24B, encapsulates
an area related to a piping system, and detects fluid leaking from
such piping system. Thus, certain embodiments of a sleeve 64
affixing to a closed design vertical container 32, increases the
potential encapsulating area that a sensor unit, associated with
such closed design vertical container 32, detects.
[0368] In certain embodiments of a sleeve and container assembly
88, such sleeve and container assembly may be arranged in a number
of different orientations. As shown in FIG. 24A, FIG. 24B, and FIG.
24C, a piping system may include a pipe 3 attached to a junction,
where a portion of a pipe is curved. In certain embodiments of the
invention, a sleeve and container assembly 88 includes a sleeve 64
having a flexible bellows 63 that can follow the path of a pipe 3.
Further, in certain embodiments a sleeve and container assembly 88
seals and encapsulates such junction and a portion of a piping
system. In such a case, as shown in FIG. 24B, A possible fluid
leaking from an adapter travels within an encapsulated area of a
bellows to a closed design vertical container 32, where a sensor
unit 2 detects the presence of a fluid. In embodiments of the
invention, such sleeve and container assembly 88 allows detection
of a fluid from a piping system oriented in different ways, such as
in a horizontal orientation, as shown in FIG. 24D, vertical
orientation, as shown in FIG. 23A, FIG. 23B, FIG. 23C, and FIG.
23D, as well as any other multitude of directions and orientations
in space.
[0369] In certain embodiments, a fluid from a piping system is
detected from a valve having a lever-type operating handle. As
shown in FIG. 27C, a lever valve container 97 embodiment
encapsulates or partially encapsulates a lever-type operating
handle 7. In some cases, as shown in FIG. 27A and FIG. 27B, a lever
valve container 97 embodiment may be associated with a lever-type
operating handle further associated with a fixture 29. In a certain
embodiment, a lever valve container 97 further contains more than
one lever valve partial container piece 99, as shown in FIG. 27C
and FIG. 28A. Such lever valve partial container pieces 99 are
joined at a joined edge 6, as shown in FIG. 27C, FIG. 27D, FIG.
28A, FIG. 28B, FIG. 28C, and FIG. 28D. In other embodiments such as
for new builds, lever valve container 97 may be one-piece
construction. In certain embodiments, union of such joining edges
is achieved by an interference fit, and/or further placing a
sealing material or coating between the faces of such joining
edges. Such sealing materials may include a face seal, or a
flexible material having gasketing properties, such as a singular
segment of flexible or semi-rigid gasket material, a plurality of
flexible gasket material, a plurality of semi-rigid gasket material
or a plurality of rigid gasket material to form a full gasket
around the perimeter or segment of a perimeter of a joining edge.
Such materials include, but are not limited to nitrile, buna,
neoprene, foam, silicone, metal or a plastic polymer such as
polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyether ether ketone (PEEK),
urethane, or ethylene propylene. Such sealing materials may also
include a sealant.
[0370] As shown in FIG. 28A, one or more partial container pieces
99 are joined at a joining edge 6 and further secured with one or
more fastening features 37, as shown in embodiments in FIG. 27D and
FIG. 28C. An embodiment of such fastening feature, such as a snap
fit, as shown in FIG. 28C, shows one embodiment where a flexible
tab 44 of one partial container piece 99, such flexible tab being
pliant, such flexible tab further containing a ridge-engaging tooth
86, engages when placed in a depression 45 of another partial
container pieces 99. Further, in a certain embodiment, a lever
valve container 97 or a lever valve partial container piece 99, has
a shaped region 5 that accommodates the movement of a operating
handle 7 as shown in FIG. 27C, FIG. 28A, and FIG. 28B.
[0371] A lever valve partial container piece 99 accommodates
portions of a piping system, such as a pipe 3, through an opening
11 shown in FIG. 27E. Such opening 11 further accommodates a gasket
9, as shown in FIG. 27D, FIG. 28A, and FIG. 28B. In this manner,
portions of a piping system, such as pipes 3 a valve 4 and an
operating handle 7 are encapsulated by a lever valve container 97
or a lever valve container 97 further comprising a lever valve
partial container piece 99 and an access panel 46, as shown in FIG.
27C and FIG. 28A.
[0372] As shown in FIG. 27C, in an embodiment of the invention,
fitting of more than one lever valve partial container piece 99
together creates an access port 47. In an embodiment, an access
panel 46 is secured to an access port 47 of a lever valve container
97 or an access port created by more than one lever valve partial
container piece 99 by an interference fit, as shown in FIG. 28D. In
certain embodiments of the invention, union of such access panel
and access port is achieved by an interference fit, and/or further
placing a sealing material or coating between the faces of an
access port and access panel. For instance, in an embodiment of the
invention shown in FIG. 28D, a wedge 38 of an access panel 46 forms
an interference fit with an inner edge 78 of a lever valve partial
container piece 99. In an embodiment of the invention, such wedge
38 is made of a flexible material having gasketing properties, such
as a singular segment of flexible or semi-rigid gasket material, a
plurality of flexible gasket material, a plurality of semi-rigid
gasket material or a plurality of rigid gasket material to form a
full gasket around the perimeter of an access port or perimeter of
an access panel. Such materials include, but are not limited to
nitrile, buna, neoprene, foam, silicone, metal or a plastic polymer
such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyether ether ketone
(PEEK), urethane, or ethylene propylene. In certain embodiments, an
access panel 46 includes a handle 100, as shown in FIG. 27D, FIG.
27E, FIG. 28A, and FIG. 28C, so that such access panel 46 may be
removed by pulling such handle 100. A handle, commonly known, aids
in movement of an object. A handle embodiment may be a portion of
an access panel, such as a protruding aspect of an access panel,
attached to an access panel, for example, by fasteners such as
screws, rivets, or bolts, or attached by welding or soldering, or
otherwise be part of an access panel. In an embodiment, a handle
may be an aperture located on an aspect of an access panel that
allows a user's hand, finger, or another material to grab onto such
access panel to allow access to an area encapsulated or partially
encapsulated by certain embodiments of the invention.
[0373] In certain embodiments, a sensor unit for a lever valve
container 97 embodiment may be placed on a number of different
locations, for example, within an encapsulated area, or outside of
an encapsulated area by such lever valve container 97. In such
cases, a portion of a sensor unit, such as a sensor probe, placed
within an encapsulated area by a lever valve container 97
embodiment allows a sensor unit to detect leaks of a fluid from
components of a piping system encapsulated by such lever valve
container 97 embodiment. A sensor opening may be located on a lever
valve partial container piece 99, access port, access panel, or
other features relating to a lever valve container 97
embodiment
[0374] Certain embodiments may be used for industrial, commercial,
residential, and other distribution applications. A certain
embodiment of an industrial application is shown in FIG. 29A, FIG.
29B, FIG. 29C, FIG. 30A, FIG. 30B, FIG. 30C, and FIG. 30D. Certain
embodiments of an industrial application includes an enclosed
container 101 as shown in FIG. 29A. An enclosed container 101
embodiment encloses components of a piping system, where such
components including pipes 3 or a valve may be associated with an
oil or gas supply, and such valve regulates the flow of such fluid.
As shown in FIG. 29B, an enclosed container 101 embodiment further
includes more than one partial container piece 102 embodiment. As
shown in FIG. 29B and FIG. 29C, such partial container piece 102
embodiments are fastened by a fastening feature, such as a
plurality of threaded fasteners 104 and nuts 103, where a nut 103
may include an internal screw thread to mate with a thread of a
threaded fastener. In such embodiment, further shown in FIG. 29C,
FIG. 30B and FIG. 30C, a partial container piece 102 embodiments
further includes a tabbed feature with aperture 105 embodiment or a
plurality of such tabbed features with apertures. In an embodiment,
a tabbed feature with aperture, located around an edge of one
industrial application partial container piece 102, aligns with a
tabbed feature with aperture around an edge of another partial
container piece 102, as shown in FIG. 30A and FIG. 30C. A tabbed
feature with aperture 105 further comprises an aperture in which a
threaded fastener 104 may pass through. In such manner, as shown in
FIG. 29B, a plurality of threaded fasteners 104 and nuts 103
secures two industrial application partial container piece 102 at a
plurality of tabbed features with apertures 105.
[0375] In certain embodiments, joining edge 6 of two partial
container piece 102 embodiments have a seal, such as a face seal,
on one or both sides of a joining edge as to prevent fluid flow
outside of such joined edges. As shown in FIG. 30D, joining edges 6
of two partial container piece 102 embodiments may be fitted, where
one joining edge 6 has a tongue 107 and another joining edge 6 has
a groove 87. Such tongue 107 and groove 87 portions may be made of
a gasketing material, such gasketing material comprising of a
singular segment of flexible or semi-rigid gasket material, a
plurality of flexible gasket material, a plurality of semi-rigid
gasket material or a plurality of rigid gasket material. It will be
appreciated that gasketing material may comprise of one or more
materials including but not limited to materials polymeric,
metallic, and/or organic in nature. Some examples of materials used
in the manufacture of gaskets include but are not limited to
rubber, nitrile, buna, neoprene, foam, silicone, metal or a plastic
polymer such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyether ether
ketone (PEEK), urethane, or ethylene propylene. In certain
embodiments of the invention, a materials of a tongue 107 and
groove 87 interface is comprised of a material or a plurality of
materials such as rubber or silicone, or other materials having
sealing properties known to persons having skill in the art.
Compression of partial container piece 102 embodiments by
fasteners, such as a plurality of threaded fasteners 104 and nuts
103 shown in FIG. 29B, may further compress such materials of a
tongue 107 and groove 87 interface shown in FIG. 30D, sealing the
encapsulated region of an enclosed container 101 embodiment. In
certain embodiments, partial container pieces open up in a clam
shell type manner, where such partial container pieces have a hinge
or a plurality of hinges.
[0376] As shown in FIG. 30B and FIG. 30D partial container piece
102 embodiments have a piping matching contour 51 that fits
components of a piping system, such as a pipe. The surface or
surfaces of a piping matching contour 51 may contain a lining 98,
where such lining may form a seal comparable to that of a gasket,
between a piping matching contour 51 and a component of a piping
system. Further, as shown in FIG. 29B, FIG. 29C, and FIG. 30D, a
piping matching contour 51 may accommodate features of an operating
handle, such as an operating handle stem 108. In this manner,
aspects of a piping system, such as a pipe 3, straight valve 4, and
valve assembly 106 may be encapsulated by an enclosed container 101
embodiment or more than one partial container piece 102
embodiments, as shown in FIG. 29B and FIG. 29C. Certain embodiments
of an enclosed container 101 embodiment may have a material
resisting corrosion. In some cases, the material for an enclosed
container 101 depends on the properties of a fluid that a piping
system carries, where such fluid may be organic compounds,
petroleum, crude oil, gasoline, natural gas, fracking fluid,
emulsifiers, proppants including sand, hydrochloric acid, among
others.
[0377] In certain embodiments, a sensor unit for an enclosed
container 101 embodiment may be placed on a number of different
locations, for example, within an encapsulated area, or outside of
an encapsulated area. In such cases, a portion of a sensor unit,
such as a sensor probe or a plurality of sensor probes, placed
within an area encapsulated by such enclosed container 101
embodiment allows a sensor unit to detect leaks of a fluid from
components of a piping system encapsulated by such enclosed
container 101 embodiment. In other embodiments, a portion of a
sensor unit, such as a sensor probe, or a plurality of sensor
probes, may be placed outside of an area an area encapsulated by
such enclosed container 101, allowing detection of a fluid in an
area surrounding a enclosed container 101. In an exemplary case of
a fluid carried through a piping system having a lower density
characteristic relative to the surrounding medium, such as fluid
substances which are typically at a gaseous state at atmospheric
pressure, a sensor unit, sensor probe, or sensor opening may be
placed in a different region of other embodiments of the invention
as to better detect leaking of such fluid. For example, in the
instance that the fluid carried exists at a gaseous state and
exhibits a density less than ambient atmosphere, the sensing
feature may be located at an elevated region of a container as the
flow of such a fluid would typically flow upward. It is appreciated
that more than one sensor unit, sensor probe, or other parts of a
sensor unit or a sensor opening may be placed in various
embodiments of the invention.
[0378] In embodiments of the invention, the opening 11 may come in
any number of sizes and shapes to fit many number of different
sized portions and shapes of a piping system. For instance, a pipe,
hose, valve, junction, connection, and/or other features of a
piping system may have components, parts, or features that range in
size and shape, and an opening has features to fit such size and
shape of such component, part, or feature through an opening. In
embodiments of the invention, a pipe, hose, valve, junction,
connection, and/or other piping system component carries any
different type of fluid or fluids. A pipe, hose, valve, junction,
connection, and/or other piping system components, for example, may
be specifically designed to carry water or aqueous substances, gas,
and hydrocarbons.
[0379] As seen in FIG. 25, certain embodiments comprise a system to
detect leaks. A container 1 is attached to piping system. If a leak
is present, the leak is detected by a sensor unit 2, the detection
depicted by Element 92. An alarm creates a notification, which can
be audible, visual, olfactory, Element 93. The notification can
also be applications, such as computer applications, web-based
cloud notifications, or smart phone applications (e.g. Android,
iOS, etc.), Element 94. The notification can be sent to a
homeowner, a gas company, a property management company, an
insurance company, and/or a maintenance company, Element 95. Once
notified, appropriate action can be taken to fix the leak, thus
mitigating the potential damage and loss should the leak have gone
unnoticed for longer periods of time. Element 92 may include a
control device 117 that may execute instructions and carry out
operations associated with sensor device 2 and computer
applications, web-based cloud notifications, or smart phone
applications as are described herein.
[0380] Using instructions from device memory, controller 117 may
regulate the reception and manipulation of input and output data in
sensor unit 2 and various electronic devices. Controller 117 may be
implemented in a computer chip or chips. Various architectures can
be used for controller 117 such as microprocessors, application
specific integrated circuits (ASIC's) and so forth. Controller 117
together with an operating system may execute computer code and
manipulate data. The operating system may be a well-known system
such as iOS, Windows, Unix or a special purpose operating system or
other systems as are known in the art. Control device 117 may
include memory capability to store the operating system and data.
Control device 117 may also include application software to
implement various functions associated with sensor unit 2.
[0381] Referring to FIG. 32, in one embodiment container 1 may be
made from a flexible elastomeric material to allow it to be fit
over new or existing piping 3. FIG. 32A shows container 1 with
gasket 9 surrounding pipe 3. Gasket 9 may be placed over pipe 3
prior to installation of container 1 or gasket 9 may be included as
part of container 1 as described herein. As shown in FIG. 32B,
container 1 may be flexed in opposite directions 118/119 to create
an opening 120 in container 1 to allow it to fit around pipe 3.
Container 1 may be made from a flexible elastomeric material such
as flexible plastic such as PVC or other such materials as
described herein. Gasket 9 provides a seal between pipe 3 and
container 1. Gasket 9 could be a split seam gasket to fit around
pipe 3 with opening 120 fitting around gasket 9 or gasket 9 could
be attached to container 1 to allow it to fit onto pipe 3. For new
builds, gasket 9 could be slipped over pipe 3 prior to the
attachment of container 1 on pipe 3 around gasket 9. FIG. 32C shows
container 1 on pipe 3 below valve 4 and sensor unit 2 to detect
leaks from pipe 3 or valve 4 which are deposited in container 1.
Opening 120 has been closed such that a seam 125 in container 1 is
sealingly closed to prevent fluid leakage from container 1. In some
embodiments, gasket 9 may be replaced or supplemented by an
elastomeric seal 139 incorporated around opening 120 as shown in
FIG. 32A.
[0382] Referring to FIGS. 33A and B, in another embodiment a trim
cup container 121 may be used. Container 121 includes flexible
portions 122/123 that may be moved in opposite directions 118/119
away from one another to allow a pipe 3 to fit into opening 120. A
gasket 9 may be included as part of, or separate from, cup 121 to
seal cup 121 to pipe 3. For new builds, gasket 9 could be slipped
over pipe 3 prior to connection of pipe 3 with other elements and
container 121 may be a one piece construction with an opening 120
to slide over pipe 3. In some embodiments, gasket 9 may be replaced
or supplemented by elastomeric seal 139 incorporated into and
around opening 120. Portions 122/123 may include passive interface
sealing or positive engagement to allow for a liquid proof seam
after portions 122/123 are engaged. A strip of liquid proof
adhesive could be used or a positive interlock with ridges, bumps
or latches could be used to allow portions 122/123 to attach to one
another after container 121 is placed around pipe 3. In one
embodiment, trim cup container 121 may be placed over the trim ring
124 shown in FIGS. 33B and 5A. Gasket 9 may be included as part of
cup 121 in the form of elastomeric seal 139 or gasket 9 may be
placed separately on pipe 3 as described herein, either before a
new installation or as a split gasket 110 in a retrofit
application.
[0383] Referring to FIG. 33C, the underside of trim cup container
121 is shown placed around pipe 3. Portion 122 overlaps portion 123
to provide a liquid seal at seam 125. Liquid leaking from pipe 3 or
valve 12 is caught in cup 121 and sensed by sensor unit 2 as
described herein. Referring to FIG. 33D, trim cup 121 is shown in a
top view with portion 122 overlapping portion 123 to provide the
liquid seal. Trim cup container 121 encloses pipe 3 and gasket 9
provides a liquid seal between container 121 and pipe 3.
[0384] Referring to FIGS. 34 A-C, in another embodiment, container
1 could take the form of an integrated unit 126 replacing, for
example, wall mounted assembly 69. For example, referring to FIG.
34A, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 16C/D/E, wall mounted
assembly 69 is replaced by unit 126. Unit 126 may include an
enclosure 127 and a box 128 as one or as separate portions. FIG.
34B is a perspective view of box 128 without enclosure 127. It
should be expressly understood that enclosure 127 is optional. Box
128 may be installed around shut off valves 68 with or without
enclosure 127 such that water leaking from valves 68, hose
connections, hose breakage, or other leaks is channeled into area
129 adjacent sensor probes 19 (FIG. 34C) by sloped aspect 25 in
area 129. In this embodiment, the use of sleeve 64 may be
eliminated as sensor unit 2 will detect fluid leakage from valves
68 as the fluid is channeled to area 129 and contacts probes 19 and
is then conducted to drain 130. In addition, sensor unit 2 may
detect fluid that backs up from drain 130 into areas 129 resulting
in early detection of such blockage and overflows. Integrated unit
126 could also be built into pumps, appliances such as a
dishwasher, clothes washer, coffee maker and the like by the
manufacturer of those devices.
[0385] Referring to FIGS. 35A-D, in another embodiment, a tray 131
may be used to capture and sense fluid leakage. Referring to FIG.
35A, tray 131 includes a bottom portion 132, side portions 133, a
rear portion 134 and a front portion 135. Front portion 135 is
sealingly attached to bottom portion 132 which may include sloped
aspect 25 and may be hingedly attachable to side portions 133. That
is, front portion 135 may be moved from an open to a closed
position. FIG. 35B shows front portion 135 in a substantially
closed position while FIG. 35C shows front portion 135 in an open
position. In the open position, front portion 135 is approximately
parallel to, and preferably in contact with, a surface such as a
floor 136. In the open position, a fixture 29 such as that shown in
FIGS. 22A/B may be rolled (if on wheels) or otherwise placed from
floor 136 onto bottom surface 132. By opening front portion 135,
rolling and placing is facilitated. Referring to FIG. 35D,
texturing 140 could be added to the underside of tray 132 so as to
raise tray 132 above floor 136 in order to reduce moisture buildup
from condensation or spills. Texturing 140 allows ambient air to
circulate beneath tray 132. In some embodiments, front portion 135
is not hingedly attached but is rather fixedly attached and fixture
29 may be placed onto tray 132 and the entire fixture 29 and tray
132 slid into place. In some embodiments, tray 132 may be attached
to fixture 29 by the manufacturer and provided as a single unit.
Tray 132 may catch and detect internal leaks from pumps, valves and
internal lines in the fixture 29.
[0386] Referring to FIG. 36A, a rear view of tray 131 with fixture
29 placed thereon is shown. Rear portion 134 of tray 131 includes a
sensor unit 2 to detect fluid leakage from pipe 3 or fitting 137
which drips onto tray 131. In some embodiments, grommet holes 141
may be included in tray 131 to allow piping 3 to pass through tray
131. Grommet holes 141 may be elastomeric to provide a fluid seal
between piping 3 and tray 131. Referring to FIG. 36B, a perspective
view of fixture 29 in tray 131 is shown with front portion 135 of
tray 131 in a closed position after fixture 29 has been rolled or
otherwise placed onto tray 131. Front portion 135 provides a fluid
seal with side portions 133 such that fluid leaking from pipe 3 or
fitting coupling 137 is captured inside tray 131 and detected by
sensor unit 2. While sensor unit 2 has been shown on the back
portion 134 of tray 131, is should be understood that sensor 2
could be placed on side portions 133 or front portion 135 of tray
131.
[0387] Referring to FIG. 37A, a fixture 29 such as a dishwasher,
refrigerator with icemaker, coffee maker or the like may include
one or more containers 1 adjacent piping 3 and compression or other
junctions 50 or fitting couplings 137. The container 1 in FIG. 37A
catches and detects leakage from that connection on the back of the
fixture 29. Container 1 may be attached by the manufacturer or may
be adhesively or otherwise attached (hook and loop strips, screws
etc.) after manufacture. In one embodiment as shown in FIG. 37B,
container 1 may be snapped onto piping 3 by a friction pressure fit
of elastomeric seal 139. Sensor 2 in container 1 could be connected
to the circuitry of the fixture 29 such as a refrigerator or coffee
maker and the fixture itself could generate an alarm or visual
notification on a display 144 (FIG. 36B). In other embodiments,
fixture 29 could be a valve for industrial applications or a
self-detecting furnace with sensor 2 detecting carbon monoxide or
other gases or combustion materials.
[0388] As shown in FIG. 37C, in another embodiment, a gasket 9 may
be included to provide a fluid seal where container 1 connects to
pipe 3. Gasket 9 could include slit 110 to allow it to be slipped
around pipe 3 in a retrofit application In another embodiment,
gasket 9 may be replaced by the elastomeric seal 139 as described
in FIG. 37B. In some embodiments, both gasket 9 and seal 139 may be
included. In the embodiment where container(s) 1 are included with
an original equipment manufacture of fixture 29, gasket 9 or seal
139 could be included during the manufacturing process. Referring
to FIG. 37D, in a partial cutaway view, the container 1 in FIG. 37A
is shown with sensor unit 2 included as part thereof with probes 19
extending into container 1 through container wall 23.
[0389] Referring to FIG. 38, a flow chart illustrating a method for
detecting leaking fluid prior to the fluid contacting surrounding
structures such as walls, floors and the like is shown. Operation
142 includes installing a leak detection device which sealingly
attached to fluid conduit systems adjacent an area which a user
desires leak monitoring. This installation may include installing
the device on a new build such as in a new home or other structure.
For example, the device may be slipped onto a pipe, tube or other
conduit prior to connection with an adjacent fitting, pipe or
conduit. Installation may also include installing the device on an
existing structure (retrofit). In some embodiments, installation
may be accomplished by an equipment manufacturer. For example, in
the case of a refrigerator, clothes washer, or other such fixture
or appliance, the manufacturer may install the device during
manufacture. The installation is made to optimize the effect of
gravity. For example, in the case of a fluid such as water which is
heavier than air, the container is installed with a capture and
sensor below the area in which a leak may occur. In the event of a
fluid lighter than air, such as a gas, the container is installed
such that the capture and sensing area is above the area in which a
leak may occur. In some embodiments, the container may enclose part
or all of the entire potential leaking area. The container is
installed so as to seal with the fluid conduit system to prevent
leaking fluid from escaping from the container.
[0390] Referring again to FIG. 38, operation 143 includes capturing
leaking fluid from a fluid conduit system adjacent the device. The
leaking fluid is captured prior to contacting adjacent structure
such as wall or floors or, in the case of a leaking gas, prior to
its escape into surrounding ambient air. By capturing the fluid
prior to contacting a surrounding structure, and notification to a
user, substantial damage to the structure may be avoided or
mitigated. In the case of a leaking gas, substantial damage to the
environment, or possibly an explosive event, may be avoided by
early capture and notification of the leaking fluid.
[0391] Referring again to FIG. 38, operation 145 includes detecting
the captured fluid from operation 143 using the leak detection
device. As discussed herein, detecting may include the use of
sensor probes 19 or other leak detection devices. The operation of
detecting may also include moving the leaking fluid toward the
sensor probes 19 by using a sloped aspect 25 or fluid accumulation
area in the lower portion of the container for heavier than air
fluids or a sloped aspect in the upper portion of the container for
lighter than air fluids such as gases. Other devices such as fans
could also be used to move the leaking fluid.
[0392] Referring again to FIG. 38, operation 146 includes
triggering an alarm after detection of a leak. This alarm may be
visual, olfactory, audible or other sensory notification such as
touch (vibration) as discussed herein. One or more of these types
of alarms may be used individually or collectively. For example,
sensor 2 in container 1 could be connected to the circuitry of
fixture 29 such as a refrigerator or coffee maker and the fixture
itself could generate an alarm or visual notification on a display
144 (FIG. 36B).
[0393] Referring again to FIG. 38, the method may include optional
operation 147 of generating a notification to alert a user of the
leaking fluid in addition to or in lieu of operation 146. For
example, the sensor unit 2 could include wireless or other
electromagnetic signal notification to a user on his or her mobile
telephone, computer or other electronic device. For example,
smart-phone apps and web interfaces that may be further associated
with software or hardware may be used to alert a user to leaking
fluid.
[0394] While various embodiments have been described in detail, it
is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments
will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be
expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are
within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Further, the
embodiments described herein are capable of being practiced or of
being carried out in various ways. Various embodiments have been
described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and
alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the
art. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology and
terminology used herein is for the purposes of description and
should not be regarded as limiting.
* * * * *