GB2248469A

GB2248469A - Automatic water flow cut-off device

Info

Publication number: GB2248469A
Application number: GB9017677A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Brian Robert Gillis
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 1990-08-11
Filing date: 1990-08-11
Publication date: 1992-04-08
Also published as: GB9017677D0

Abstract

An automatic water flow cut-off device for preventing the flow of water from any item to which it is connected in the absence of any personnel includes an electric solenoid valve (C) in the water supply pipe line, which is controlled by a relay (R). The relay is switched on only when an infra-red sensor (S), suitably situated, detects the presence of a person close enough to the controlled water outlet to be actually using it. If for any reason, i.e. power cut, short term requirement, etc., a constant water supply without control should be required, a manually operated by-pass valve (B) is provided. Complete closure of the supply of water through the device and its by-pass valve is affected by closing stop-cock (A). Should removal of solenoid valve (C) be necessary, isolation valves (D) and (E) should be left closed, stop-cock (A), by-pass valve (B) opened, and water supply thus restored without fear of water loss, until replacement of solenoid valve (C) returns the device to normal function. <IMAGE>

Description

AUTOMATIC WATER FLOW CUT-OFF DEVICE The invention relates to a device to be known as an 'automatic water flow cut-off device".

BACKGROUND.

Due to an ever increasing need for economy in the use of water and the possibility of the privatization of the water industry in the future, the fear of the loss, wastage or abuse of this precious resource both in the home and industry is becoming acute.

In the home for example, it is very easy for a tap to be turned on and for one reason or another left unattended for a long time whilst the water pours straight down the drain Further to this and as an additional consideration, even a leaking tap washer or seal can result in quite heavy water loss, as can any water-fed appliances not properly maintained.

In industry this kind of wastage could be limitless, and the causes too many to contemplate, especially in the hotel and catering sectors.

The automatic water flow cut-off device prevents the flow of water from any item to which it is connected in the absence of any personnel. This is achieved with the fitment of an electric solenoid valve 'C' in the water supply pipe line, being controlled by a relay 'R' which is switched on only when an infra-red sensor 'S', suitably situated, detects the presence of a person close enough to the controlled water outlet to be actually using it. If for any reason, i.e.

power cut, short term requirement, etc., a constant water supply without control should be required, a manually operated by-pass valve 'B' is provided. Complete closure of the supply of water through the device and its by-pass valve is affected by closing stop-cock 'A'. Should removal of solenoid valve 'C' be necessary, isolation valves 'D' and 'E' should be left closed, stop-cock 'A', by-pass valve 'B' opened, and water supply thus restored without fear of water loss, until replacement of solenoid valve 'C' returns the device to normal function.

Claims

1) That the device is capable of preventing both the involuntary and unnecessary wastage and misuse of water.

2) That as a direct result of Claim 1) the user would possibly make considerable savings in expense when water is metered by private enterprise.

3) That if properly installed as necessary the device would not be accidentally turned on by the presence of animals, small children or anybody not standing close enough to the controlled water outlet to be actually using it.

4) That when the property in which the device is installed unattended, any flow of water through the items protected by the device is impossible, thus giving added protection against accidental flooding and the damage usually associated with this.

5) That Claim 4) is still effective if and when the main stop-cock controlling the supply of water to the premises or property concerned is left turned on.

CLAIMS 6) That the device, its controls and components are at all times to be fully adjustable to accommodate the requirements of installation in any situation.

7) That the device and its components be capable of use on either 'hot' or 'cold' water supplies, by changing items A, B, C and D as required by demand, to 'hot' or 'cold' suitability.

8) That the device will automatically leave the water supply to the outlets it controls totally isolated in the event of the loss of electrical supply, or power cut, when valve 'B' is closed.

9) That in the event of electrical failure or malfunction of solenoid valve 'C', the by-pass valve 'B' when opened manually, will allow normal water flow without any other control than the items to which it flows provides, i.e. taps, etc.

10j That should the removal of solenoid valve 'C' be necessary for more than a short time, the isolation valves 'D' and 'E' will be closed and stop-cock 'A' and by-pass valve 'B' opened, thus allowing uncontrolled use of the outlet normally controlled by the device.