Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to IoT-Enabled Water Heaters with Built-in Hazard Detection. The present invention relates to the field of smart home technologies and Internet of Things (IoT) systems, specifically to a smart water heater system. More particularly, the invention pertains to an IoT-enabled water heater that integrates traditional heating functions with modern smart technology, allowing for remote monitoring, control, and energy management while enhancing safety and user convenience.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Everyday use of electric water heaters is common, yet there have been cases when people have been fatally shocked by electric shocks when they come into contact with water while the power source is on. To mitigate this significant safety issue, innovative technology is required to avert electric shocks and guarantee user safety. The proposed technology must integrate sophisticated safety mechanisms that identify electrical faults or possible hazards and automatically sever the power supply, guaranteeing the safe operation of electric water heaters in all circumstances.
CN 212619301 U Heater and water heater, published: Feb 26, 2021, Granted: Feb 26, 2021.
CN 219264590 U Heater for water heater, published: Jun 27, 2023, Granted: Jun 27, 2023.
The existing methods decrease local deformation and increase heating efficiency, but they lack real-time safety measures for electrical problem detection. The proposed solution prioritizes user safety by instantly disconnecting power in hazardous circumstances.
In comparison to the proposed Internet of Things water heater, conventional water heaters are extremely inefficient. It has the ability to monitor temperatures in real time, integrate automated safety measures, and operate remotely. This technology allows users to control the heater via a smartphone app and receive notifications about safety and temperature issues, as opposed to previous models that required manual operation and lacked cognitive features. IoT solutions are efficient and easy to use with automated overheating cutoffs and cloud-based energy usage measurements.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention.
This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.
The invention provides an IoT-enabled water heater system designed to enhance efficiency, convenience, and safety in modern homes. The system incorporates a temperature sensor to continuously monitor the water temperature, with the data being processed by a microcontroller. Based on the temperature readings, the microcontroller activates or deactivates the water heater through a relay module to maintain the user-specified temperature. The system is powered by a standard 230V AC supply, which is converted to 5V DC for operation of the system's components.
A built-in Wi-Fi module enables the water heater to connect to the internet, allowing users to remotely control and monitor the system through a mobile application. The app allows users to adjust the water temperature, turn the heater on or off, and receive notifications regarding issues such as overheating and energy consumption. The system also features safety protocols that automatically shut off the heater if the temperature exceeds a predefined threshold, and it cuts power to the heater in the event of a power outage via the relay module. This IoT-enabled water heater system provides a smarter, safer, and more efficient solution for managing home water heating needs, while offering enhanced user control and energy savings.
To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
The suggested technique's block diagram is shown in Figure 1. To increase efficiency, convenience, and user-friendliness, the Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled water heater system blends conventional heating capabilities with contemporary smart technology. The temperature sensor at the system's interior is responsible for the continuous monitoring of water temperature. An embedded Wi-Fi module in the microcontroller receives temperature readings from this sensor. If the water needs heating, the microcontroller will determine that by analyzing the data. A signal is sent from the microcontroller to the relay module, which acts as a switch, to turn on the water heater if the temperature drops below the user-specified threshold. The heater keeps running until the water reaches the desired temperature, at that point the microprocessor sends a signal to the relay to turn the heater off. The entire system is powered by a standard 230V AC source that is converted into a steady 5V DC to power the relay, sensor, and microcontroller.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The illustrated embodiments of the subject matter will be understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. The following description is intended only by way of example, and simply illustrates certain selected embodiments of devices, systems, and methods that are consistent with the subject matter as claimed herein, wherein:
Figure 1. IoT-Enabled Water Heaters with Built-in Hazard Detection
The figures depict embodiments of the present subject matter for the purposes of illustration only. A person skilled in the art will easily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments are described herein in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of details provided herein is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
It is also to be understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as specific examples, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a",” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes” and/or “including,” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.
It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions/acts noted may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may, in fact, be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.
In addition, the descriptions of "first", "second", “third”, and the like in the present invention are used for the purpose of description only, and are not to be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, features defining "first" and "second" may include at least one of the features, either explicitly or implicitly.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, e.g., those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
The suggested technique's block diagram is shown in Figure 1. To increase efficiency, convenience, and user-friendliness, the Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled water heater system blends conventional heating capabilities with contemporary smart technology. The temperature sensor at the system's interior is responsible for the continuous monitoring of water temperature. An embedded Wi-Fi module in the microcontroller receives temperature readings from this sensor. If the water needs heating, the microcontroller will determine that by analyzing the data. A signal is sent from the microcontroller to the relay module, which acts as a switch, to turn on the water heater if the temperature drops below the user-specified threshold. The heater keeps running until the water reaches the desired temperature, at that point the microprocessor sends a signal to the relay to turn the heater off. The entire system is powered by a standard 230V AC source that is converted into a steady 5V DC to power the relay, sensor, and microcontroller.
The Wi-Fi module enables the water heater system to connect to the internet through a home Wi-Fi network, enabling cloud-based capabilities. Access and control from afar through the cloud are made possible by this interface. With a specialized mobile app, users may see the current temperature, turn the heater on or off, and set their preferred temperature or heating programs from anywhere with their smartphone. The application provides users with real-time notifications to alert them of issues, such as overheating, as well as energy consumption data. To prevent any potential harm, the system's safety measures ensure that the microcontroller may automatically turn off the heater if the temperature rises above a certain point. As an extra layer of protection, the relay module cuts power to the heater directly from the AC mains anytime the power goes out. The IoT water heater is a cutting-edge upgrade for modern smart homes that improves comfort, security, efficiency, and energy management.
The suggested IoT water heater incorporates smart technology to improve safety protocols, offer remote control, and enable real-time monitoring. In contrast to competing technologies, this one allows customers to manage and keep tabs on the heating process from anywhere using a smartphone app. Additionally, they can get the temperature data in real time. When the heater hits a certain temperature, it is turned off automatically by relays to keep it from overheating. Cloud connectivity allows for constant data storage and communication. This technology makes life easier and safer at home while saving energy, making it a great choice for modern houses.
Best Method of Working
An IoT water heating system uses a temperature sensor to constantly monitor the water's temperature and relay that data to a microcontroller. A microcontroller-integrated Wi-Fi module allows wireless access to mobile apps and cloud services. The microprocessor and relay module in the water heater can sense the water heater's temperature and adjust its operation accordingly. The water heater can operate more effectively as a result.
The dedicated mobile application enables the control and monitoring of the water heater from any location. The Wi-Fi module is employed to establish a wireless connection between a mobile device and a router. This is achieved. Incorporate an ac-to-dc converter to transform the 230V AC source into 5V DC, which can then power the low-voltage components such as the microcontroller and sensor. When the water heater's temperature rises over a certain threshold, the microcontroller signals the relay module, which instantly cuts off the water supply to avoid overheating.
The mobile application can evaluate energy consumption and monitor performance by utilizing historical data on heater usage and temperature readings recorded in the cloud. Add a scheduling option that users can set in the app to automatically switch the water heater on and off at certain times.
The security procedures of the relay module have the potential to cut off the water heater's electricity in an unsafe circumstance or malfunction. Instantaneous alerts and notifications about system status are sent by the mobile app. These include information about water temperature, when the heater is turned on, and any safety concerns like overheating or malfunctions.
ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
Remote Control and Monitoring: The IoT-enabled water heater system allows users to control and monitor the water heater remotely through a mobile application. This convenience enables users to adjust the temperature, turn the heater on or off, and check the status of the system from anywhere, enhancing user comfort.
Energy Efficiency: The system helps optimize energy usage by maintaining the water temperature at the desired level only when necessary. The system also provides real-time energy consumption data to users, allowing them to manage and reduce energy costs effectively.
Safety Features: The system includes multiple safety measures such as automatic shutdown if the water temperature exceeds a pre-set threshold, preventing overheating. Additionally, the relay module cuts power to the heater directly from the AC mains during a power outage, ensuring user safety at all times.
Cloud Connectivity: With built-in Wi-Fi, the system connects to the cloud, enabling continuous data storage and remote access. This feature allows for real-time updates, providing users with up-to-date information about the water heater's operation.
User-Friendly Mobile App: The accompanying mobile app offers a user-friendly interface, allowing easy control over the water heater. Users can customize settings such as preferred temperature, heating programs, and receive notifications regarding the system’s status and alerts about potential issues.
Improved Comfort and Convenience: By enabling users to set their preferred temperature or heating schedules remotely, the system offers enhanced comfort and convenience. It ensures that the water is heated to the desired temperature before use, eliminating the need for manual adjustments.
Integration with Smart Homes: The system is compatible with modern smart home environments, making it easy to integrate with other IoT-enabled devices. This enables seamless automation and better control of home appliances, improving overall home efficiency.
Prevention of Overheating: The system's automatic temperature monitoring ensures the heater is turned off once the desired water temperature is reached, preventing overheating and enhancing the lifespan of the water heater.
Customization and Flexibility: Users can customize the heating schedules, temperature thresholds, and receive notifications based on their preferences, providing a highly adaptable system that meets various user needs and lifestyle demands.
Cost-Effective Solution: By enhancing energy efficiency, providing real-time energy consumption data, and minimizing energy waste, the system offers a cost-effective solution for managing water heating in the home. 
, Claims:1. An Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled water heater system, comprising:
• A temperature sensor configured to continuously monitor the water temperature inside the water heater,
• A microcontroller that receives temperature data from the sensor and analyzes it to determine whether the water needs heating,
• A relay module that is controlled by the microcontroller to turn the water heater on or off based on the temperature readings,
• A Wi-Fi module embedded in the microcontroller, enabling the water heater system to connect to the internet and facilitating remote control and monitoring of the system via a mobile application.
2. The IoT-enabled water heater system of claim 1, wherein the system is powered by a standard 230V AC power source, which is converted into a 5V DC supply to power the microcontroller, temperature sensor, and relay module.
3. The IoT-enabled water heater system of claim 1, wherein the mobile application allows the user to: View the current water temperature, Turn the water heater on or off remotely, set a preferred temperature, Set and customize heating programs for the water heater.
4. The IoT-enabled water heater system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mobile application provides real-time notifications to the user regarding issues such as overheating or other system malfunctions, and displays energy consumption data.
5. The IoT-enabled water heater system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microcontroller is configured to automatically turn off the heater when the water temperature exceeds a pre-set safety threshold to prevent overheating.
6. The IoT-enabled water heater system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the relay module is configured to cut power to the water heater directly from the AC mains if the system detects a power outage to ensure safety.
7. The IoT-enabled water heater system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the Wi-Fi module facilitates cloud-based communication, enabling remote access and control of the water heater system and continuous data storage for the system's operation.
8. The IoT-enabled water heater system of claim 1, wherein the temperature sensor is calibrated to detect a pre-set temperature threshold, which triggers the relay to turn the heater on or off to maintain the desired water temperature.
9. The IoT-enabled water heater system of claim 1, wherein the system is designed to be compatible with modern smart home environments, providing increased convenience, energy efficiency, and user safety.
 
10. The IoT-enabled water heater system of claim 1, wherein the mobile application allows users to receive detailed reports on the system's energy consumption, enhancing energy management and conservation for the user.