Integrated local or remote control liquid gas leak detection and shut-off system

A novel system for detecting liquid and/or gas leaks and automatically shutting off the source of the liquid and/or gas leak. The system includes electronically detecting undesirable liquid and/or gas leaks, electronically transmitting signal about such undesirable liquid and/or gas leak, electronically receiving the signal, and electronically activating a mechanism which shuts off a liquid and/or gas valve thereby stopping the liquid or gas leak.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
This invention relates to a novel integrated local or remotely operated 
system for detecting liquid and/or gas leaks and automatically by local or 
remote control shutting off the source of the liquid or gas leak. More 
particularly, this invention pertains to a novel integrated local or 
remotely operated single or network system for electronically detecting 
undesirable liquid and/or gas leaks, electronically transmitting by 
hardwire or remote transmission an alarm signalling such undesirable 
liquid and/or gas leak to a local or remote control source, electronically 
receiving the alarm at the local or remote control source, and 
electronically activating by hardwire or radio or infrared system a 
mechanism which shuts off a liquid or gas valve to the leak source thereby 
stopping the undesirable liquid and/or gas leak. 
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
Most residential buildings, hotels, office buildings, and the like, in the 
industrialized areas of the world, are serviced by water and/or natural 
gas, oil or propane. These services involve pipes, valves, and other 
mechanized devices for conveying the liquids and/or gases and require 
periodic maintenance. Not infrequently, there is a malfunction and 
undesirable water or gas leaks into the building, thereby causing costly 
unwanted damage and creating a safety hazard. In buildings which are 
heated, there is a constant danger that lethal carbon monoxide will be 
generated from improper combustion of the fuel source. Insurance companies 
insuring buildings or occupants which are affected by unwanted water or 
gas leaks annually pay out large compensation for such unwanted water or 
gas damage. 
There is a strong need for an automatic locally or remotely operated system 
which can be installed in single or multiple residential buildings or 
commercial buildings and can automatically detect undesirable water or gas 
leakage, and automatically shut off the source of such unwanted liquid or 
gas leakage, until the source of the leakage can be repaired. Insurance 
rates would be reduced if the risk of potential damage was minimized. 
Building owners would be more comfortable with the reduced risk of 
accidental liquid or gas damage, and in the case of leaking or noxious 
gases, alerted as to their safety. 
The following patents disclose apparatus or systems which may be pertinent 
to the subject matter of this application. 
______________________________________ 
U.S. Pat. No. Owner 
______________________________________ 
3,757,317 U.S. Dynasty Corp. 
4,024,887 Vought Corp. 
4,134,022 Honeywell U.S.A. 
4,248,087 Haliburton Company 
4,437,497 Enander 
4,715,398 Co Be La B's Inc. 
4,736,763 Britton 
5,240,022 Franklin 
______________________________________ 
U.S. Pat. No. 4,134,022, Honeywell, U.S.A., discloses a liquid level 
sensing apparatus that has a source for supplying a signal of a 
predetermined frequency. A level sensor is connected to the source and has 
an output for signalling an output signal which has the predetermined 
frequency, so long as the level of the material being sensed is not at a 
predetermined level. The apparatus includes a frequency sensitive circuit 
for receiving the output signal from the level sensor and for providing an 
output whenever the frequency of the signal is above or below the 
predetermined frequency. A load which is responsive to the output from the 
frequency sensitive circuit is connected to the circuit. This patent does 
not disclose an integrated local or remotely operated system for detecting 
liquid and gas leaks and automatically shutting off the source of the 
liquid or gas leak. 
U.S. Pat. No. 5,240,022, Franklin, discloses an automatic shut-off valve 
system for installation, for instance, in the water supply line to a hot 
water heater and includes a sensor to detect leakage electrically by 
sensing moisture, and then shutting off the supply line in response. The 
valve mechanism includes a spring loaded ball valve normally latched in 
the open position which is unlatched and hence closes by the contraction 
of a BioMetal (trade-mark) wire which activates a torsion spring to rotate 
the ball valve. The valve is controlled by a microprocessor which includes 
self test features, and the valve system may operate for a year or more on 
battery power. This patent does not disclose gas sensors or application of 
the system to multiple unit buildings or networked systems. 
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
The apparatus and system of the invention is a locally operated, or 
remotely operated single, multiple, or networked system which can detect 
unwanted liquid and/or gas leaks and by local or remote communication shut 
off the liquid and/or gas valve that is the source of the liquid or gas 
leak. The apparatus and system of the invention has the capability of 
changing or stopping the flow rate and/or flow direction and/or pressure 
of liquids and/or gases by detecting the presence or absence of liquids 
and/or gases, for example, in residential buildings, apartment buildings, 
hotels, office buildings, and the like. The apparatus and system of the 
invention can be installed in a single dwelling, a multiple residency-type 
building, a commercial building or a small or large group of buildings of 
various types such as towns or cities. The apparatus and method of the 
invention apply to liquids such as water or fuel oil, and gases, for 
example, natural gas, carbon monoxide, propane or other gases. 
The invention is directed to a liquid or gas detection and control 
apparatus comprising: (a) a liquid or gas detector (sensor) for detecting 
liquid or gas; (b) a means of transmitting an output signal from the 
liquid or gas detector, said transmission, when activated by the liquid or 
gas detector detecting liquid or gas, transmitting audio, radio, 
electronic or electrical signals to a receiver; (c) a receiver and control 
for receiving and acting on audio, radio, electronic or electrical signals 
transmitted by the transmitter; (d) a mechanism associated with the 
receiver and control, the mechanism when commanded by the receiver and 
control being activated to change the flow rate and/or flow direction 
and/or pressure by means of an electro-mechanical device placed at the 
source of the liquid and/or gas; and (e) a power supply for electrically 
powering the detector, transmitter, receiver and mechanism. 
The invention in another embodiment is directed to a liquid and gas leak 
detection and control apparatus comprising: (a) a liquid detector for 
detecting liquid; (b) a gas detector for detecting gas; (c) at least one 
transmitter electronically associated with the liquid and gas detectors; 
said transmitter, when activated by an electronic signal by the liquid or 
gas detector detecting liquid or gas, transmitting audio, radio or 
electrical signals to a receiver; (d) at least one receiver for receiving 
audio, radio or electronic signals transmitted by the transmitter and 
activating a control mechanism; (d) a control mechanism associated with 
the receiver, the control mechanism, when activated by an electronic 
signal from the receiver activating a shut off a valve which controls a 
source of the liquid or gas; and (e) a power supply for electrically 
powering the detector, transmitter, receiver and control mechanism. 
The liquid detector can be an electrical water detector, which generates an 
electrical signal to the transmitter when water contacts the detector. The 
gas detector can generate an electrical signal to the transmitter when a 
specified gas contacts the gas detector. The transmitter can be 
electrically connected to the water detector and when the water detector 
is contacted by water, the transmitter can be electrically activated and 
transmit a high frequency radio signal to the receiver. 
The control mechanism can be an electric motor and the receiver, which 
receives a radio signal from the transmitter, can electrically activate 
the electric motor which is connected to and shuts off a water valve which 
controls the source of the water. The transmitter and the receiver can be 
electrically powered by low voltage electrical current. The low voltage 
electrical current can be provided by a low voltage transformer which can 
be connected to a source of high voltage alternating electrical current. 
The gas detector can be a natural gas detector, a carbon monoxide detector, 
or a propane detector and can be programmed to be activated by natural 
gas, carbon monoxide or propane above a predetermined threshold level. The 
control mechanism can be an electric motor and the receiver, when 
receiving a signal from the gas detector activated transmitter, can 
deliver an electrical signal to the motor, which is connected to and shuts 
off a valve which controls the source of the detected gas. 
The detector in another form can be a water detector and can comprise an 
electrical wire, enclosed in electrical insulation, with one or more ports 
in the insulation which enable water to penetrate the insulation and 
contact the electrical wire. The liquid detector can include a second 
electrical wire enclosed in the insulation, with one or more ports in the 
insulation, which enable water to penetrate the electrical insulation and 
contact the electrical wire. 
The motor can be a rotary electrical motor which is connected to the water 
valve by a series of gears and shafts which translate motor rotational 
force to valve closing or opening rotational force. The apparatus can 
include a maximum motor rotation limiting switch. 
The transmitter can transmit radio signals of a specified frequency, and 
the receiver can receive and be activated by radio signals of the same 
specified frequency. 
In one specific embodiment, the apparatus can include at least one water 
detector, at least one transmitter associated with the detector, at least 
one receiver associated with the water detector transmitter, at least one 
control mechanism which can be an electrically activated motor connected 
to a water shut-off valve, at least one gas detector, at least transmitter 
associated with the gas detector, at least one receiver associated with 
the gas detector transmitter and at least one mechanism which can be an 
electrical motor connected to a valve controlling a gas source. 
In another version, the apparatus can include a plurality of water 
detectors and a plurality of gas detectors located in separate locations 
and including a central control station which can electronically 
communicate with the water detectors, transmitters and receivers and 
control valves that regulate the sources of the water and the gas. 
The apparatus can also include a plurality of water detectors deployed 
throughout a building, and a plurality of connecting transmitters deployed 
throughout the building, the transmitters communicating with respective 
receivers and motors, which can be connected to a plurality of respective 
water valves which respectively can be the source of water which may 
contact the respective water detectors, the respective motors shutting off 
applicable water valves. 
The apparatus can include a plurality of gas detectors deployed throughout 
a building, and a plurality of connecting transmitters deployed throughout 
the building, the transmitters communicating with respective receivers and 
motors, which can be connected to a plurality of respective water valves 
which respectively can be the source of gas which may contact the 
respective gas detectors, the respective motors shutting off applicable 
gas valves.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of a 
residential building 2 equipped with various water and gas appliances and 
automatic water and gas shut-off systems according to the invention. The 
invention disclosed and claimed herein provides an automatic electronic 
means for automatically shutting off a leaking gas line or the main water 
supply to the house 2 in case a gas leak is detected from the stove 3, or 
a water leak is detected from any one of the appliances, and indeed from 
and any other source, if required. Specifically, FIG. 1 illustrates in 
isometric view a two storey residential house 2, equipped with a natural 
gas stove 3 and a dishwasher 4 on the second floor, and a clothes washer 6 
and a hot water tank 8 on the first floor. The natural gas stove 3 is 
serviced by natural gas through gas line 5 and controlled by on-off valve 
7. A potentially dangerous gas leak will be detected by natural gas sensor 
9, which will then command an electric motor 11 to shut off valve 7. 
Likewise, a carbon monoxide sensor 13 is located proximate the stove 3 so 
if the natural gas is not burning efficiently in the stove, and carbon 
monoxide is generated, the sensor 13 will transmit an appropriate signal 
and shut off valve 7 will be closed. 
Since each of the water consuming appliances 4, 6 and 8 is serviced by 
water, a break in the water line or a valve or a burst water seal, or some 
other defect or malfunction, in any one of the appliances can result in 
unwanted water damage, since the water being supplied to these appliances 
is under pressure, usually in the order of 40 to 60 psi. 
As also seen in FIG. 1, the dishwasher 4 is equipped with a transmitter 10 
and a water detector 12. Likewise, the clothes washer 6 is equipped with a 
transmitter 14 and a water detector 16. Similarly, the hot water tank 8 is 
equipped with a transmitter 18 and a water detector 20. If a water leak 
occurs at any of these three locations, then the respective detectors 12, 
16 or 20, which generally are positioned at floor level, will detect the 
leak and electronically activate the respective transmitters 10, 14 or 18. 
In turn, the respective transmitter, when activated, will transmit a high 
frequency radio signal to receiver 22, which is adjusted to react to the 
high frequency radio signal and is normally located proximate to the main 
water line 31 and water valve 26, delivering water into the house 2. 
As seen in FIG. 1, and for illustration purposes, a water leak from hot 
water tank 8 is shown. The detector 20, which is electronically adapted to 
detect water by closing an electronic circuit, as will be explained below, 
electronically activates the transmitter 18. The transmitter 18 emits high 
frequency radio waves 28, as seen in FIG. 1, which are received by the 
high frequency radio receiver 22. Alternatively, the communication between 
the transmitter 18 and receiver 22 can be hard wire, or optical fibre, or 
some other suitable communication connection. The receiver 22, which is 
electrically connected to an electric motor 24, electronically activates 
the motor 24, which in turn mechanically shuts off the water valve 26. 
Thus, there is no more water leakage, and water damage due to unwanted 
water leakage is minimized. A service man is then called in to repair the 
leak. 
The motor 24 for valve 26 is encased in a housing which includes a gear, 
motor and tap engaging tangs. The housing is securable to the valve 26 and 
the main water intake pipe 31. The housing does not need to be secured to 
adjacent structure of the house 2, and can easily be used in a concrete 
lined basement. The housing has adjustment securing means to accommodate 
water pipes of different diameters. 
The motor 24 is typically regulated so that it will rotate a specified 
number of times in opening or closing the valve 26. There are several 
different ways of limiting the number of rotations that are applied to the 
valve to turn off the water valve 26. The motor 24 will normally be sold 
in the "closed position", so that when the installer installs it on the 
tap of the valve 26, also in the closed position, the motor 24 and 
electronics will be automatically "zeroed". The installer then unscrews 
the tap of the valve 26 to open it. The number of revolutions of the tap 
are then counted by the electronics of the apparatus, using one of several 
methods. A shaft encoder is suitable, but a simple mechanical limit switch 
on a slowly rotating gear is probably be simpler. No complex adjustment is 
required for the installer, so the invention can be installed by an 
average householder, or handyperson. 
The system can be expanded by installing a water detector in all areas of 
the house where water might leak, that is, anywhere where there is a water 
tap. Thus, there could be water detectors in bathrooms, kitchens, 
basements, etc. of the building. Also, gas sensors can be installed 
wherever there is gas being used, for example, the gas stove 3. If the hot 
water tank 8 is gas fired, then a gas detector will be installed in place 
of detector 20. A suitable carbon monoxide sensor (not shown) will be 
included to ensure that combustion of the natural gas is efficient. 
Each water detector, when contacted by leaking water, would emit an 
ultrasonic or radio frequency signal which, for a particular house, would 
all be at the same frequency. To avoid the possibility of interference 
with signals generated by an adjacent neighbour's house, the water 
detectors have adjustable custom set output frequencies. Alternatively, 
hard wiring can be used. 
It will be understood by a person skilled in the art that other types of 
suitable on-off water and/or gas valves can be substituted so long as they 
are approved by the regulatory authorities. 
It will also be understood that apart from electrically powered water 
appliances, the invention is also applicable to natural gas or propane 
powered appliances, for example, gas heated hot water tanks, gas heated 
boilers, and the like. The system in such cases will include gas 
detectors, as well as water detectors, which can be pre-set to detect 
threshold levels of the respective gas. Gas detectors can also be 
installed to detect threshold carbon monoxide levels and activate alarm 
and shut off systems if carbon monoxide levels rise above safe levels. 
FIG. 2 illustrates an enlarged detailed isometric view of various household 
appliances equipped with moisture detectors, detection transmitters, 
detection receivers and automatic water valve shut-off, according to the 
invention. Specifically, FIG. 2 illustrates in isometric view a clothes 
washer 6, which is equipped with a transmitter 14 (shown magnified as 
well) and an external fluid (water) detector 16, which is positioned at 
floor level, where leaking water is likely to be detected. The transmitter 
14 and detector 16 are connected by wire 34. Similarly, hot water tank 8 
is equipped with a transmitter 18 connected by wire 34 to an external 
fluid (water) detector 20, which is positioned at floor level, where 
leaking water is likely to be detected. FIG. 2 also shows a typical 
kitchen sink equipped with an internal water detector 30, positioned below 
the sink inside the cabinet. When a water leak occurs in any one of these 
appliances, the affected water detector 16, 20 or 30, as the case may be, 
will sense the water leak and by being connected by respective connector 
wires 34 to the respective transmitter 14, 17 or 18, emits a high 
frequency radio signal 28 (shown as a jagged line), which is received by 
water detection receiver and control 22. The receiver 22 illustrated in 
FIG. 2 is typically equipped with a power switch, a low battery detection 
light (typically an LED light), a water-off light (LED), a reset 
(water-on) switch and a vacation switch, which is activated when the 
inhabitants of the house go on vacation. Optionally, the receiver 22 can 
include a loudspeaker 29, which transmits an audible alarm sound 
(piezoelectric) or electronic voice, which can be heard by the house 
residents. Typical batteries to power the receiver 22 and transmitters 14, 
17 and 18 are lithium coin cell and Ni--Cd batteries. Alternatively, the 
transmitters 14, 17 and 18 and receiver 22 can be powered by low voltage 
transformers 23 (one of which is shown for receiver 22) which are 
typically plugged into standard 110-120 volt AC outlets 25. Various 
standards associations, such as the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), 
because of potential electrocution problems, do not permit potentially 
lethal 110-120 volt alternating current to be used in environments where 
there might be water present. Accordingly, it is necessary to have a low 
voltage transformer 23, drawing 110-120 volt alternating current power 
from the outlet 25 and converting it to low voltage, such as 12 volts, for 
powering the transmitter 22, and the other electronic devices. The 
transmitter 22 is connected by wiring 27 to an electrically activated 
motor 24 which, upon activation by a signal from transmitter 22, shuts off 
water supply valve 26. 
The transmitters 14, 17 or 18 can be adapted and manufactured to include an 
internal moisture detector, a daily supervisory transmission facility, and 
low battery supervisory transmission facility. Long life lithium batteries 
or Ni--Cd can be used in case of power failure. The transmitters can 
include built in terminals for connection to external moisture detectors 
by connecting cable wire. Alternatively, they can be hard wired to 
existing electricity sources. The transmitters can also include circuitry 
and controls to enhance radio or high frequency audible range. 
The receiver 22 is typically manufactured and adapted to operate on safe, 
low voltage, such as 6 to 12 volts. The receiver 22 can include electronic 
circuitry to monitor supervisory transmissions. It can also include 
outputs to control the water valve 26 and trigger alarm systems if need 
be. The receiver 22 can include power, low battery and water off 
indicators, reset and vacation pushbuttons, and a local alarm sounder. The 
entire system can be sold in kit form. The kit will typically include a 
control and receiver, a plug-in power transformer 23 with electrical cord, 
an electrically operated motor 24 and water valve 27 shut-off capability 
with connections, 30 feet connection wire 27, two moisture detection 
transmitters 14 and 18 with batteries, two external moisture detection 
detectors 16 and 20, and installation operation instructions. Other 
combinations can also be provided. 
While only water appliances and water detectors are shown in FIG. 2, it 
will be understood that the concept can be readily converted in whole, or 
in part, to accommodate or include natural gas or propane type energy 
sources by including or substituting gas detectors in place of the water 
detectors. 
FIG. 3 illustrates a detailed isometric view of a water sensor 12, a 
transmitter 10, a receiver 22, a water shut-off valve 26 and a valve 
shut-off motor 24. Water sensors are readily available in the marketplace. 
As seen in FIG. 3, the sensor 12 is electrically hard-wire connected by 
wire 34 to the transmitter 10. The transmitter 10 communicates with the 
receiver 22 by radio waves. The transmitter 10 can, if desired, be "hard 
wired" to the receiver 22, that is, connected by electrical wire (not 
shown) rather than using radio waves. As shown in FIG. 3, transmitter 10 
is of the design which transmits a high frequency radio signal, or 
alternatively, a high frequency audio signal, to receiver 22. The receiver 
22, when it receives a signal from transmitter 10, transmits an electrical 
signal through wire 27 to electric motor 24, which is then activated and, 
by rotating through a predetermined number of turns via a gear arrangement 
(not shown), shuts off main water valve 26. Thus the water leak is 
stopped. 
It will be understood that the system in whole or in part can be adapted to 
sense gas leaks, such as natural gas, carbon monoxide, or propane leaks, 
as well as water leaks. The detectors 12 are then sensors of a type which 
can sense the presence of methane, propane or carbon monoxide gas above 
predetermined levels. These gas detectors are readily available in the 
marketplace from a number of commercial sources. In the case of gas, the 
valve 26, instead of being a water valve, will be a gas shut-off valve of 
a design approved by compressed and combustible gas regulatory 
authorities. Otherwise, the other components are more or less the same as 
for the water shut-off system, but with different inserts. Of course, 
water and gas sensing systems can be combined as the need arises. 
FIG. 4 illustrates an enlarged isometric view of one design of receiver 
module 22. The receiver 22 illustrated in FIG. 4 can include any number of 
optional operational features, supported by appropriate hardware and 
electronics. Specifically, the receiver 22 illustrated in FIG. 4 includes 
an on-off power switch 32, and a manual dial 33 to enable the operator to 
adjust the sensitivity and frequency of the receiver 22. It will be 
understood that other dials and control systems available in the 
marketplace can be used or included. 
FIG. 5 illustrates an enlarged isometric view of a typical water shut-off 
valve 26 and a valve shut-off motor 24. As seen in FIG. 5, the electric 
motor 24 is connected directly to the main water shut-off valve 26 by a 
pipe which includes the valve shaft gears and tap (not shown but see FIG. 
10). Alternatively, the valve 26 can be a gas shut-off valve for use with 
a natural gas or propane system. The motor 24 is housed in a protective 
casing 21. 
FIG. 6 illustrates an enlarged isometric view of a water sensor 12 and an 
on-off control transmitter 10. Specifically, FIG. 6 illustrates the 
transmitter 10 connected by a low voltage wire 34 to the water sensor 12. 
The water sensor 12 can be of a standard type available in the 
marketplace. For instance, Linear Electronics Inc. of Carlsbad, Calif., 
sells a water detector which, when activated by water, closes (shorts) an 
electronic circuit and commences to transmit an electronic signal to the 
transmitter 10. As seen in FIG. 6, the transmitter 10 is equipped with an 
on-off switch 36 so that it can be manually turned off if desired. 
As mentioned previously, it should be clearly understood that the subject 
invention is very versatile and is not restricted to water detection only. 
If desired, the system can be modified and expanded to accommodate other 
forms of energy fluids such as oil, diesel, or gasoline leaks. It can also 
include gas detectors, such as natural gas or propane, at appropriate 
locations, and in similar manner to those described for the water 
detection system. These can be connected by hard wiring or communicate by 
radio frequency, or some other means, to transmitters which, by having 
different frequencies, send transmission signals to appropriate receivers, 
which then activate corresponding electrical motors which shut off the 
main water or gas supply line (typically natural gas or propane) to the 
building. The two systems, fluid and gas, with separate respective 
detectors, can be used as combined systems to accommodate dwellings which 
are serviced by both water and gas. The system can also be adapted to 
mobile homes, trailers and recreation vehicles serviced by propane 
cylinders. 
FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic front view of a multiple electronic water 
detection system for a multiple unit hotel or apartment, with central 
control panel 38 and for illustration purposes, a single alarm 42 and tape 
strip 40. It will be understood that as many water detectors 40 as are 
required to monitor the number of units in the building are included in 
the overall system. Further, the system can be expanded or modified to 
include gas sensors. As seen in FIG. 7, a main control panel 38 has 
display indicators for each room of the hotel or apartment building. 
According to the schematic diagram illustrated in FIG. 7, and to avoid 
clutter, only one water detector tape strip 40, deployed in one room of 
the building (typically the bathroom), and connected by an alarm 42 and 
hard wire 44 to the control panel 38, is shown. However, as alluded to 
above, it will be recognized that there will be corresponding tape strips 
40, alarms 42 and hard wire 44, connected to respective indicators on the 
main control panel 38, which typically is deployed in either the hotel 
manager's or the apartment manager's office, or in a convenient location 
in the central area of the building, such as the lobby, which is a 
controlled area. In certain cases, the system may be linked by telephone, 
or some other means, to a central control unit. The system illustrated in 
FIG. 7 permits an entire multiple unit building to be monitored for water 
and/or gas leaks by a central control system. 
As seen in FIG. 7, the tape strip 40 is of a type which has a pair of 
electrical low voltage wires running in parallel and encased in a suitable 
plastic, such as polyvinylchloride (PVC). At periodic locations along each 
wire, there are openings 41 in the covering plastic. Normally, the tape 
strips 40 are dry. However, if there is a water leak, and water contacts 
one or more of the openings in the tape 40, a harmless low voltage 
electrical short will occur which, in turn, will be detected by the 
electronics in the main control panel 38. An alarm 42, typically 
piezoelectric, will then sound in the room. Furthermore, an indicator 
light 17 will illuminate on the main control panel 38. The hotel manager 
or apartment manager, or the control centre, can then quickly recognize 
that an unwanted and potentially serious water or gas leak has occurred in 
one of the rooms in the building and take appropriate action. Running 
water taps, toilets, baths, sinks and the like, inadvertently or 
deliberately left on by hotel guests and apartment dwellers, are a common 
problem in the hotel and apartment industries, and cause considerable 
damage and raise insurance rates. The system disclosed herein effectively 
enables with this problem to be dealt with. 
FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic front view of a water detection system for a 
single unit residential building, including main programmable alarm 
console 45, radio transmitter unit 46, water strip tape 40 and motorized 
water shut-off valve 26. The system illustrated schematically in FIG. 8 is 
designed for installation in a residential building. The residential water 
detection system includes a main alarm console receiver 45, which can be 
similar to, or can be coordinated with, or built into a standard security 
alarm control panel. The main alarm console receiver 45 is similar in 
function to the receivers discussed previously and is hard wire connected 
by wire 27 to an electric motor 24, which in turn, when activated, shuts 
off main water valve 26, or a gas valve if applicable. In the latter case, 
the detectors are gas detectors. Of course, a combination system using 
both water and gas detectors can be employed, as the case may require. 
FIG. 8 illustrates the same type of water tape strips 40 as discussed 
previously in association with FIG. 7, including a series of water 
detecting openings 41 in the tape 40. The tape 40 is connected by wire 34 
to a radio transmitter unit 46, which can include an alarm light 48. The 
tape 40 is installed in each area where there may be a water leak. More 
than one tape 40 can be connected to one transmitter 46 if desired. The 
radio transmitter unit 46, when sensor tape 40 detects a water leak, 
transmits a high frequency radio signal to the main alarm console 45, 
which is connected by wire 27 to motor 24, thereby activating the main 
water valve 26 shut-off routine. 
FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic view of a water detection receiver block 
diagram according to the invention. The water detection receiver system 
illustrated in FIG. 9 includes a circuit which resets on power up to avoid 
accidental triggering. The receiver decoder logic operates on a 2-3 second 
pulse. When the receiver 22 is triggered, an alarm will sound through 
speaker 47 for five minutes as determined by a five minute timer and the 
red alarm lamp 48 stays on. A relay 43 signals the motor 24 (not shown) to 
shut off the valve 26 (not shown). The system includes an alarm reset 
switch 49 which shuts off the alarm 47 and the red lamp 48. It is usually 
preferable to use an electric motor 24, rather than a solenoid, to shut 
off the valve. An advantage of this is that the motor 24 draws current 
only when it is operating, such as when it is closing the valve 26. A 
solenoid valve, on the other hand, usually draws current on a steady basis 
in order to stay in a closed position. Solenoids would be suitable for use 
with gas systems, when gas utilities are present and gas sensors used. 
Suitable valves for both water and gas are available in the marketplace 
from Honeywell Inc. (U.S.A.) or Honeywell Limited in Canada. 
FIG. 10 illustrates an isometric partial cut-away view of a second 
embodiment of receiver with a motor and gear arrangement for shutting off 
a water valve. The second embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10 includes a 
motor 24 (shown in dotted lines), which is connected by gears to a shaft 
which can be connected to a valve (such as a main water or gas line valve) 
in order to shut off the valve. Specifically, as seen in FIG. 10, the 
motor and gear arrangement includes a worm gear 50, which is driven by 
motor 24. A four turn maximum limit switch 52, or sensory control, which 
is resettable, limits the number of rotations of the motor 24 so the motor 
24 does not overwind the tap and stem of the valve, and strip the threads 
on the gears. The gear arrangement includes a bushing 58, a spacer 60, a 
solid shaft 62, and a guide shaft 64. A reverse/forward toggle switch 54 
and an indicator light 56 are included. When the motor 24 is activated by 
the receiver 22 receiving an alarm signal from the transmitter (not 
shown), the gear arrangement is driven and controlled by maximum turn 
limit switch 52. This permits the motor 24 to make a predetermined number 
of turns, and by being connected by shaft 62 to the water shut-off valve 
(not shown), turns the attachment of the valve a predetermined number of 
rotations in order to close the valve. The motor 24 can be reversed by 
throwing switch 54. 
FIG. 11 illustrates a front cut-away schematic view of a third embodiment 
of one aspect of the invention, that is, high frequency receiver 22 with 
gear control for automatic water shut-off. FIG. 11 illustrates from a 
different view point many of the same parts as illustrated and discussed 
previously in FIG. 10. However, FIG. 11 also shows a pair of stabilizing 
blocks 66, which hold the gear assembly in position. A gear exchanger 68, 
a collar 70, and a solid gear 72 which is connected to shut-off valve 
shaft 62, are also shown. A power supply 74, and an electrical motor 
connection 76 are also shown. The circuitry for the light 56, the reverse 
toggle switch 54 and the limit switch 52 are also shown. 
FIG. 12 illustrates an isometric view of a connector for a mechanical gear 
drive assembly. Specifically, FIG. 12 illustrates one design of connector 
that can be used to connect the gear drive assembly illustrated in FIGS. 
10 and 11 to an external main valve assembly 26. It will be appreciated 
that other types of connectors are possible or can be used. As illustrated 
in FIG. 12, the solid drive shaft 62 (see also FIGS. 10 and 11) can be 
connected by a connector 77 to a gear stem 78 of a water shut-off valve 
26. Shaft 62, when rotated, rotates connector 77, which in turn rotates 
valve coupler shaft 78. Shaft 78 then either shuts off or opens valve 26, 
depending on the direction of rotation, and gear assembly required for 
valve activation. 
FIG. 13 illustrates an electronic circuit diagram of a receiver and motor 
activation circuit. The circuitry includes a number of resistors (R), 
switches (SW), diodes (D), coils (RY), capacitors (C) and light emitting 
diodes (LED), connected together in a manner which is understood by any 
person skilled in electronics and design of electronic systems, to perform 
the functions of the invention. Other types of electronic circuits can be 
substituted as need be. The alarm is received at "alarm in" (receiver 22) 
and the circuit then closes to activate motor 24. The activator switch 
operates between the three vertical contact points. The circuit can be 
incorporated in a standard silicone chip, which can be easily installed or 
replaced. If required, a computer can be included in the system, or used 
to replace other electrical components. FIG. 14 illustrates a circuit 
diagram of a five volt AC to DC floating control VC actuator. These 
circuits provide greater control by giving in between settings rather than 
straight on-off settings. FIG. 15 illustrates an alternative wiring 
diagram of a five volt AC to DC floating control. The actuator will 
function in a regular 2-position (on/off) mode if the controller does not 
have an off-centre capability. 
FIG. 16 illustrates a schematic diagram of a gas sensor 100 connected to a 
powered receiver control 102 and a motorized gas shut-off valve 106. As 
seen in FIG. 16, a gas sensor 100, which can be of any type available on 
the market, is electronically set to sense detectable limits of natural 
gas, propane and/or carbon dioxide. The sensor 100 is connected, either by 
hard wiring (or if preferred, radio frequency) to a control panel 102. The 
control panel 102 typically has a number of control buttons and lights 
thereon. The control buttons can be for settings such as off, on, alarm, 
reset, vacation, silent, etc., as required to suit the situation. The 
control panel 102 also includes electronic circuitry which springs into 
action when above prescribed levels of gas are detected by sensor 100 and 
conveyed to control panel 102. In that case, the control panel 102, which 
includes transmitter circuitry, issues a command, either by hard wire, or 
radio frequency, to receiver 104, which then prompts valve 106 to close. 
Valve 106 is connected to the input natural gas line or propane line, as 
the case may be. The control panel 102, sensor 100, receiver 104, are 
powered by electricity which is received via plug 108. 
FIG. 17 illustrates a schematic diagram of a liquid sensor 110 connected to 
a powered receiver control 112 and a valve 116. As seen in FIG. 17, a 
water sensor 110, which can be of any type available on the market, is 
electronically set to sense detectable limits of water. The sensor 110 is 
connected, either by hard wiring (or if preferred, radio frequency) to a 
control panel 112. The control panel 112 typically has a number of buttons 
and lights thereon. The buttons can be for settings such as off, on, 
alarm, reset, vacation, silent, etc., as required to suit the situation. 
The control panel 112 also includes electronic circuitry which activates 
when above prescribed limits of water are detected by sensor 110 and 
conveyed to control panel 112. In that case, the control panel 112, which 
includes transmitter circuitry, issues a command, either by hard wire, or 
radio frequency, to receiver 114, which then prompts valve 116 to close. 
Valve 116 is connected to the input water line. The control panel 112, 
sensor 110, receiver 114, are powered by electricity which is received via 
plug 118. 
FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate section views of an alternative type of on-off 
control valve. FIG. 18A illustrates the valve in closed position as 
indicated by the arrows. FIG. 18B illustrates the valve in an open 
position as indicated by the flow through arrow. In FIG. 18A, the valve 
stem is in a raised position which closes the valve. The stem can be 
raised by a suitable motor. In FIG. 18B, the valve stem is in a lowered 
position to open the valve. 
FIG. 19 illustrates a schematic plan of a network of homes, hotel, office 
building and hospital monitored by a central control facility by hardware 
or radio. As seen in FIG. 19, a central control network system can be 
established to accommodate a number of residential homes, office 
buildings, hospitals, hotels, and the like. The system can be installed in 
a community and operated by a company which sells gas and water detection 
and shut-off systems and provides the service for a rental rate. 
Communication between the different buildings and the central control can 
be conducted over hard wire systems, telephone lines, radio frequency 
systems, cellular telephones, or whatever communication system is 
suitable. 
FIG. 20 illustrates an electronic circuit diagram of a relatively simple 
liquid and/or gas leak detection system, suitable for a residential 
building. Thus FIG. 20 can be understood readily by a person skilled in 
the art when reviewed in association with the discussion about the process 
which appears later in this description. 
FIG. 21A and 21B illustrates an electronic circuit diagram of a more 
complex liquid and/or gas leak detection system, suitable for a multiple 
residential building, an office building or some other multiple occupancy 
or multiple use building. Again, these Figures should be considered in 
association with the process discussion which appears later in this 
disclosure. 
PROCESS CAPABILITIES 
As will be evident from the foregoing discussion and the accompanying 
drawings, the invention provides a versatile system with a number of 
valuable capabilities, some of which are repeated below. The invention 
provides an ability to sense the presence or absence of liquids such as 
water, fuel oil or gasoline, and/or gases such as natural gas or carbon 
monoxide, and to cause an associated reaction in the form of a change in 
the flow rate and/or flow direction and/or pressure of the liquids and/or 
gases through the use of appropriate electronic and electro-mechanical 
devices. In addition, the invention has an ability to electronically 
enunciate all conditions and changes in conditions, as detected by the 
detector system. 
The invention also is highly versatile because it includes a capacity to 
transmit the water or gas sensory data with respect to the presence or 
absence of liquids and/or gases by means of hard wired, radio frequency, 
power line carrier, infrared, fibre optics, and ultra sonic devices, as 
the case may be, utilizing varying signals including analog and digital 
formats and protocols and custom generated signal formats and protocols. 
The invention further includes the capability to transmit data regarding 
the condition of the system for the purpose of off-site monitoring and 
enunciating by means of hard wired, radio frequency, power line carrier, 
infrared, fibre optics, and ultra sonic devices, and the like, utilizing 
varying signals including analog and digital formats and protocols. 
The invention is flexible, expandable, versatile and adaptable. For 
example, it includes an ability to electronically and/or electrically 
and/or manually operate the system, to electronically and/or electrically 
and/or manually override and/or reset the system, and to operate utilizing 
alternating or direct current. 
OPERATION OF INVENTION 
This invention provides and apparatus and method of controlling the 
sourcing of directional fluids and gases and has as one advantage, 
monitoring of such fluids and gases. The system also has the capability to 
enunciate, record and control both functions simultaneously with visible 
and audible signals and controls. The electronic controller is designed so 
that it can be operated alone or other modules may be added or deleted as 
required to suit a wide variety of single and multiple use applications. 
The main function of the invention is to control the presence or absence 
of designated fluids or designated types of gases, that is, non-flammable 
fluids as well as flammable and/or a combination of same. The system is 
versatile because it allows one controller to expand up to and/or 
including over 100 responses from various monitor sources, or as few as 
one response. The invention includes the capability of being able to 
report to telephone display and/or security panels with controllable 
outputs up to and including 24 volts. The system can operate on either AC 
or DC power. In multiple use applications, the system is able to control 
three wire and/or 2 wire valve leads. The RF or radio frequency emitted by 
the transmitter, may be adapted to various types of control boards and 
have the versatility of employing a power line carrier, a hard wire 
circuit and a radio frequency, which work together as a unit. A one 
controller panel can be used with valve closures for gases or fluids, and 
can use open or closed switches for safety purposes. 
The detectors used in the invention are available in the marketplace and 
are of a fast response type. An intelligent detector (computer) is not 
required as the central control is microprogrammed to respond to a wide 
variety of conditions and demands. Directional detectors can be used in 
cases where there is not a specific area. In that way, total control of a 
given environment can be achieved. Inputs and outputs with recycling 
control and monitoring action can be achieved by interfacing various 
components with each other. Computer monitoring is available as part of 
the invention. 
The system is relatively simple and hence reliable because there are no 
latching pins or trip arm or counter-clockwise rotations or wire spring of 
Bi-metal (trade-mark) used in valve actuation. Compare, for example, U.S. 
Pat. No. 5,240,022, Franklin. An electronic mechanical valve is used that 
does not require a manual reset. A relay or contact switch can be used for 
that purpose. Power requirements are low because power is not required to 
turn off the valve or to reopen it. There is a manual override for these 
instances. Power is also not required to maintain the valve in a normal 
open position. Power is required only when closing the valve which can 
also be done manually. Power back up (eg. battery) can also be installed. 
However, back up is usually required only in isolated installations where 
access to power is not available. 
The invention in one embodiment uses fail-safe valves from Honeywell Inc. 
These automatically close on power failure and are reopened when power 
supply is re-established. When power supply is terminated, manual 
over-ride can be used. 
Functional Description of a Typical SVC Components Installation 
Some of the various components illustrated in the drawings which were 
discussed previously are listed below. 
Control Inputs 
1. Main Power--24VAC@5A 
2. Three SPST momentary contact switches--Holiday, Silence, Reset 
3. Five water sensor inputs 
4. One override input-fire sensor 
System Outputs 
1. Valve (common) 
2. Valve open--optional 
3. Valve close--optional 
4. Five current loop outputs 
5. One SPDT auxiliary output--Com, NC, NO 
6. Five L.E.D. indicators 
7. One piezo alarm sounder 
Operation 
On power up, the system is designed so that the microprocessor will perform 
an automatic power up reset. This sets the system in a "ready" state. 
FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate typical electronic circuits for performing the 
objectives of the invention. Once the power up reset sequence has been 
completed, the system begins to scan all of its inputs from the various 
sensors, whether there be one or many. Usually, there will be many 
sensors, both fluid and gas. If an input is in an alarm condition, the 
system will automatically close both relays which then close the 
appropriate valve, turn on the "Valve Closed L.E.D." on the control panel 
and switch the auxiliary output. The system will then activate the 
appropriate "Zone L.E.D." and the piezo alarm sounder. This set of 
conditions will persist until the "Reset" button is pressed (with the 
exception of the sounder which can be silenced by pressing the "Silence" 
switch). If one or more of the zones goes into alarm when the override 
input is active, the Zone L.E.D.'s and Piezo alarm sounder will be turned 
on, but the valve will not be closed. 
Product Breakdown 
Controller 
In order to interface the liquid and/or gas sensors to the 
electro-mechanical control with respect to change in the flow rate and/or 
flow direction and/or pressure of the liquids and/or gases, to a specific 
environment, that is, single family residence, multiple use building or 
other variations, controllers are built in various designs and 
configurations. In a basic form, the controller will interpret input 
signals from the sensors (water or gas) and by transmitter cause a 
receiver output signal to control the change in state of the 
electro-mechanical device (motor-valve) regulating the source of the fluid 
or gas. Simultaneous output signals can be transmitted by the controller 
in analog and digital forms for control of additional associated devices 
and to provide output signals to other controllers provided by others. The 
input and output signals to and from the controller can be transmitted in 
simplex or duplex form by a variety of means such as hard wire, radio 
frequency, power line carrier, infrared, fibre optic, or ultra sonic 
mediums, utilizing varying signals including analog and digital formats 
and protocols including public knowledge protocols and custom generated 
signal formats and protocols. 
Sensors 
In order to sense the presence or absence of unwanted liquids and gases, 
various market available sensory devices can be utilized. These sensors 
provide an analog or digital output signal when a stray liquid or gas is 
sensed. This signal is transmitted to the controller. 
Electro-mechanical Device 
To change the flow rate and/or flow direction and/or pressure of the 
liquids and/or gases, or stop them completely, an electro-mechanical flow 
control device which is regulated by a signal from the controller is 
utilized. Such an electro-mechanical device can be of various 
configurations including solenoid and motor controlled valves, gates, 
diaphragms, shutters, nozzles, restrictors, enlargers, and any other 
mechanical device which can be electrically motivated to change or stop 
the flow rate and/or flow direction and/or pressure of the liquids and/or 
gases. 
Description of a Typical Liquid Sensing System 
A liquid sensor in the form of an open circuit is placed near the liquid 
source, typically water. When liquid leaks across the sensor, the circuit 
is closed, thereby allowing electrical current originating from the 
controller to pass freely through the circuit. This causes an associated 
electronic relay to latch close. This in turn causes current to pass to an 
electro-mechanical valve which is designed to close when current is 
applied to it. The closed valve shuts off the sources of the liquid. Once 
the liquid withdraws from the sensor, it returns to an open state but the 
associated relay remains closed until it is manually reset. Resetting 
opens the circuit which removes current from the electro-mechanical valve. 
The valve will then either be automatically and/or manually reopened. 
Description of a Typical Gas System 
A market available gas sensor (natural gas, propane or carbon monoxide) in 
the form of an intelligence device which contains its own logic and 
sensory circuits is placed in the environment where escaped gas may be 
present. An associated output signal from the sensor is in a neutral 
state. When unwanted gas is detected by the sensor, an output signal is 
activated and transmitted to the controller where it is interpreted and 
causes an associated relay to latch close. This causes current to pass to 
an electro-mechanical valve, which regulates the source of the gas, and is 
designed to close when current is applied. Once the gas is dissipated from 
the sensor, it returns its output signal to a neutral state and the 
associated relay remains closed until it is manually reset. Resetting 
opens the circuit which removes current from the electro-mechanical valve. 
The valve will then either be automatically and/or manually reopened. 
Controller Types 
The controller is comprised of various commercially available models with 
expansion capability available to suit a wide variety of applications and 
various liquids or gases. Four typical controller systems are discussed 
below. 
1. A first type of controller (I) is a liquid and/or gas directional 
controller that can simultaneously sense gases, i.e. carbon monoxide and 
fluids, and activate an electro-mechanical valve. At the same time, the 
controller actuates a relay closing valve (24 volt AC), and a second relay 
which on the detection of fluids or gases activates the alarm on the 
control panel (5 volt DC) and simultaneously activates a normally open or 
normally closed contact which then shuts down the source of the gas. 
2. A second type of controller (II) has the same types of controls as (1) 
above, but is expanded to include radio frequency or 2 or 3 wire fail safe 
applications. Further expansion can be made to include electro-mechanical 
valve with manual override consisting of auto recycle ability system check 
and/or unlimited gases and/or fluids with ability to sense gases and/or 
lack of same. 
3. The third type of controller (III) has a capability to handle hardwire, 
radio frequency and power line, infrared, fibre optics and ultra sound 
simultaneously. Expansion is possible to a virtually unlimited number of 
inputs and outputs with proportionate degrees of power application. 
4. The fourth type of controller (IV) is an amalgamation of and has all 
characteristics of controller I, II and III, including microprocessor and 
liquid display crystals. The controller (IV) includes remote radio sensor 
with accessories for both liquid and gas and is adaptable to various power 
sources. 
______________________________________ 
SVC24-4 "SMART VALVE" Control 
("SMART VALVE" is a trade-mark.) 
Number of zones from 1 to 100 
Primary voltage 100 to 130 VAC, 50/60 Hz 
Secondary voltage 
24 VAC, 50/60 Hz or 12 Volt- 
DC 
Current drain Standby, 150 Ma. 
During alarm, 550 Ma. 
Nominal timing Valve opens in 6 seconds 
Auto test cycle Approx. every 21 days - 
programmable 
Temperature operating, 0 to 65.degree. C. (-32 to 
150.degree. F.) 
Distance to sensor 
Unlimited 
Termination Screw type terminals 
SV "SMART VALVE" 
Voltage Low voltage (open range) AC 
or DC 
Power consumption 
6 watts max. 
End switch rating 
2.2 A inductive 
Nominal timing Valve opens in 6 seconds 
Operating pressure 
Max. - 4 Bar (60 psi) 
Pressure rating Static - 20 Bar (360 psi) 
Burst - 100 Bar (1500 psi) 
Valve material Bronze, Ryton and Noryl 
Dimensions/Pipe sizes 
Optional 
______________________________________ 
As will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the light of the 
foregoing disclosure, many alterations and modifications are possible in 
the practice of this invention without departing from the spirit or scope 
thereof. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is to be construed in 
accordance with the substance defined by the following claims.