Capstone Design

For this class I worked with three fellow ME students to develop a powerless leak detection and shutoff system for tank based water heaters with Rheem, a manufacturer of water heaters. The project was highly involved and the solution very innovative; I cannot share details publicly just yet, but watch this space! The project requirements were to develop a system capable of detecting errant leak water from gas or electric water heaters and shutting off the cold-water supply. The device had to be optimized for extremely efficient, low cost manufacture up to a volume of 180,000 units a week. In addition, the device does not draw on any external power supply and uses purely chemical/mechanical means to operate in a wide range of temperature and humidity conditions.