Methods and apparatus for determining the presence or absence of a fluid leak

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention feature a method and apparatus for detecting defects, such as, leaks, component failure and adverse performance. One embodiment of the present apparatus for pumping fluid comprises a pumping chamber having an inlet and an outlet powered by a motor. The motor operates in pumping mode upon receiving a pumping signal. The apparatus further comprises at least one inlet valve in fluid communication with the inlet of the pumping chamber. And, the apparatus comprises a switchable valve in fluid communication with the outlet of the pumping chamber. The switchable valve has a closed position and an open position, and assumes the closed position upon receiving a close signal. A pressure measuring device is in fluid communication with the pumping chamber, between said inlet valve and switchable valve. The pressure measuring device determines a minimal pressure and first threshold pressure at a first time and a second threshold pressure at a second time. The control means calculates the slope of a line representing the difference of said first threshold pressure signal and said second threshold pressure signal over time and comparing the slope with a threshold decay value. And, the control means compares the minimal pressure to a minimal acceptable value. Deviations from such values represent a defect in the pump.