阅读说明：本技术 水质监测系统 (Water quality monitoring system ) 是由 L·麦凯尔维 于 2020-02-04 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种盖装式水采样系统,适于与水管线流体连接,用于从水管线获取与加压水样本对应的水质参数,并将与所述水质参数相关的信息传输至远程位置,该系统包括：坑盖,适于定位以覆盖坑箱,使得在使用期间坑盖的外表面基本上在地面水平,且适于定位在位于地下的坑箱；坑盖还包括在用的下侧部分,其连接至水采样装置,所述水采样装置适于定位在由坑箱限定的内容积中,水采样装置与水管线流体连接,用于获取与来自水管线的加压水样本对应的水质参数；数据发送器位于所述坑盖附近,与水采样装置进行电子通信,用于将水质参数发送至远程位置。(A lid-mounted water sampling system adapted to be fluidly connected to a water line for obtaining a water quality parameter corresponding to a pressurized water sample from the water line and transmitting information related to the water quality parameter to a remote location, the system comprising: a pit cover adapted to be positioned to cover the pit box such that an outer surface of the pit cover is substantially at ground level during use, and adapted to be positioned in the pit box located underground; the sump cover further comprises an in-use lower portion connected to a water sampling device adapted to be positioned in an interior volume defined by the sump housing, the water sampling device being fluidly connected to the water line for obtaining a water quality parameter corresponding to a pressurized water sample from the water line; a data transmitter is located proximate to the pit cover in electronic communication with the water sampling device for transmitting the water quality parameter to a remote location.)

1. A lid-mounted water sampling system adapted to be fluidly connected to a water line for obtaining a water quality parameter corresponding to a pressurized water sample from the water line and transmitting information related to the water quality parameter to a remote location, the system comprising:

a pit cover adapted to be positioned to cover the pit box such that an outer surface of the pit cover is substantially at ground level during use, and adapted to be positioned on the pit box located underground;

the sump cover further comprises an in-use lower portion connected to a water sampling device adapted to be positioned in an interior volume defined by the sump housing, the water sampling device being fluidly connected to the water line for obtaining a water quality parameter corresponding to a pressurized water sample from the water line; and

a data transmitter located proximate to the pit cover in electronic communication with the water sampling device for transmitting the water quality parameter to a remote location.

2. The lid-mounted water sampling system of claim 1, further comprising: one or more connectors, preferably quick-coupling connectors, are used to connect the water sampling device to the water line, so that the lid-mounted water sampling system is adapted to be easily disconnected from the water line.

3. The lid-mounted water sampling system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the water sampling device is adapted to measure one or more of the following parameters:

(a) transient pressure;

(b) the temperature of the water;

(c) the pH of the water;

(d) oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP);

(e) electrical conductivity (Ec);

(f) free chlorine concentration.

4. The lid-mounted water sampling system of claim 4, further comprising: a first sampling line connected to the water line for allowing water to flow from the water line to a dynamic pressure detector to measure a transient pressure in the water line; and a second sampling line connected to the water line for allowing water to flow from the water line to a plurality of sampling chambers having respective sampling probes adapted to sample water quality parameters of a water sample flowing into the sampling chambers.

5. The lid-mounted water sampling system of claim 4, wherein the dynamic pressure sensor is arranged to perform an initial water sampling step to identify transient pressures in the pipeline and transmit transient pressure related information to the receiver and signal processor; the signal processor is arranged to receive and process the transient pressure related information to determine whether the transient pressure in the pipeline meets a predetermined criterion; the signal processor communicates with the control unit to perform one or more additional water sampling steps when predetermined criteria are met.

6. The lid-mounted water sampling system of claim 5, wherein the control unit is arranged to operate the water sampling system in a low power consumption operating configuration when the predetermined criteria is not met.

7. The lid-mounted water sampling system according to any one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the control unit is programmed or programmable to increase a water sampling rate or a data recording rate if the predetermined criterion is not met.

8. The cap-mounted water sampling system according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the water sampling device further comprises a sampling valve to control the flow of water from the water line into the first and second sampling lines.

9. The cap-mounted water sampling system of claim 8, wherein the sampling valve is in electronic communication with a data transceiver to allow remote actuation of the sampling valve.

10. The cap-mounted water sampling system of claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the sampling valve is in electronic communication with a processor to execute sampling instructions written onto a non-volatile memory device arranged in communication with the processor, the sampling valve being actuated in accordance with the sampling instructions.

11. The cap-mounted water sampling system according to any one of claims 4 to 10, wherein the water sampling device further comprises a pressure relief valve positioned in fluid communication with the second sampling line for reducing the pressure of water flowing from the water line into the plurality of water sampling chambers.

12. The cap-mounted water sampling system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the transmitter further comprises an antenna element fixed relative to the sump cover, wherein a top of the antenna element is positioned adjacent an underside of the sump cover for transmitting information related to the water quality parameter to a remote location.

13. The cap-mounted water sampling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the data transmitter for transmitting the water quality parameter to the remotely located processing unit is configured to: receiving and processing water quality parameters of one or more samples sampled by a sampling device according to one or more water quality parameter processing instructions written onto a remotely located non-volatile memory unit in communication with the remotely located processing unit.

14. The lid mounted water sampling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the data transmitter is adapted for wired or wireless communication with a remote server.

15. The lid-mounted water sampling system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a frame assembly for mounting the water sampling device in an underside portion of the pit cover, the frame assembly being connected to an underside of the pit cover.

16. The cap-mounted water sampling system of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an on-board processing unit in communication with the water sampling device and the data transmitter for processing and transmitting information related to the water quality parameter to a remote location.

17. The lid-mounted water sampling system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a housing for enclosing at least a portion of a water sampling device having a sealing means for forming a seal between the housing and the sump cover and/or the water sampling device.

18. The lid-mounted water sampling system of claim 17, wherein a sealing device is located at an upper portion of the housing in use to form a seal between the housing and the sump cover and/or the water sampling device.

19. The cap-mounted water sampling device of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the housing in combination with the water sampling device and/or the sump cover is negatively buoyant to prevent the combination of the sump cover, the water sampling device and the housing from becoming buoyant when submerged in water.

20. The cap-mounted water sampling device of any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the housing further comprises an outlet opening to allow water from inside the housing to be discharged outside the housing.

21. The cap-mounted water sampling device of claim 20, wherein the outlet is positioned in a lower, active portion of the housing.

22. The lid-mounted water sampling device of claim 20 or 21, wherein the housing comprises a base formed in a lower, in use, portion of the housing, having an upstanding wall extending from the base in a direction towards the sump cover, the outlet being located at the base of the housing.

23. The cap-mounted water sampling device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a sampling pressure regulator to regulate the pressure of water flowing through the water sampling device to above 101kPa, and preferably in the range of 130kPa to 210 kPa.

24. A water sampling system adapted to be fluidly connected to a water line for obtaining a water quality parameter corresponding to a pressurized water sample from the water line and transmitting information related to the water quality parameter to a remote location, the system comprising:

a water sampling device adapted to be positioned below a lower portion of a pit cover within an interior volume defined by a pit box, the pit cover adapted to be positioned to cover the pit box such that an outer surface of the pit cover is substantially at ground level during use and adapted to be positioned on the pit box located underground;

a water sampling device fluidly connected to the water line for obtaining a water quality parameter corresponding to the pressurized water sample from the water line; and

a data transmitter located proximate to the pit cover in electronic communication with the water sampling device for transmitting the water quality parameter to a remote location.

25. The water sampling system of claim 24, further comprising: one or more connectors, preferably quick-coupling connectors, are used to connect the water sampling device to the water line, so that the lid-mounted water sampling system is adapted to be easily disconnected from the water line.

26. A water sampling system according to claim 24 or claim 25, wherein the water sampling device is adapted to measure one or more of the following parameters:

(a) transient pressure;

(b) the temperature of the water;

(c) the pH of the water;

(d) oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP);

(e) electrical conductivity (Ec);

(f) free chlorine concentration.

27. The lid-mounted water sampling system of claim 26, further comprising: a first sampling line connected to the water line for allowing water to flow from the water line to a dynamic pressure detector to measure a transient pressure in the water line; and a second sampling line connected to the water line for allowing water to flow from the water line to a plurality of sampling chambers having respective sampling probes adapted to sample water quality parameters of a water sample flowing into the sampling chambers.

28. A water sampling system according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the dynamic pressure sensor is arranged to perform an initial water sampling step to identify transient pressures in the pipeline and to transmit transient pressure related information to the receiver and signal processor; the signal processor is arranged to receive and process the transient pressure related information to determine whether the transient pressure in the pipeline meets a predetermined criterion; the signal processor communicates with the control unit to perform one or more additional water sampling steps when predetermined criteria are met.

29. A water sampling system according to claim 28, wherein the control unit is arranged to operate the water sampling system in a low power consumption operating configuration when the predetermined criterion is not satisfied.

30. A water sampling system according to any one of claims 28 or 29, wherein the control unit is programmed or programmable to increase a water sampling rate or data recording rate if the predetermined criterion is not satisfied.

31. The water sampling system according to any one of claims 27 to 30, wherein the water sampling device further comprises a sampling valve to control the flow of water from the water line into the first and second sampling lines.

32. The water sampling system of claim 31, wherein the sampling valve is in electronic communication with a data transceiver to allow remote actuation of the sampling valve.

33. The water sampling system according to claim 31 or claim 32, wherein the sampling valve is in electronic communication with the processor to execute sampling instructions written onto a non-volatile memory device arranged in communication with the processor by actuating the sampling valve in accordance with the sampling instructions.

34. A water sampling system according to any one of claims 27 to 33, wherein the water sampling device further comprises a pressure reducing valve positioned in fluid communication with the second sampling line for reducing the pressure of water flowing from the water line into the plurality of water sampling chambers.

35. The water sampling system of any one of claims 24 to 34, wherein the transmitter further comprises an antenna element fixed relative to the sump cover, wherein a top of the antenna element is positioned adjacent an underside of the sump cover for transmitting information relating to the water quality parameter to a remote location.

36. A water sampling system according to any one of claims 24 to 35, wherein the data transmitter for transmitting the water quality parameter to the remotely located processing unit is configured to: receiving and processing water quality parameters of one or more samples sampled by a sampling device according to one or more water quality parameter processing instructions written onto a remotely located non-volatile memory unit in communication with the remotely located processing unit.

37. A water sampling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the data transmitter is adapted for wired or wireless communication with a remote server.

38. The lid-mounted water sampling system according to any one of claims 24 to 37, further comprising a frame assembly for mounting the water sampling device in an underside portion of the pit cover, the frame assembly being connected to an underside of the pit cover.

39. The cap-mounted water sampling system according to any one of claims 24 to 38, further comprising an on-board processing unit in communication with the water sampling device and the data transmitter for processing and transmitting information related to the water quality parameter to a remote location.

40. A method of water sampling, the method comprising the steps of:

placing a water sampling device under an underside portion of a pit cover adapted to be positioned to cover a pit box such that an outer surface of the pit cover is substantially horizontal to the ground and adapted to be positioned on the pit box located underground during use;

fluidly connecting the water sampling device to sample pressurized water from a water line to obtain a water quality parameter corresponding to a sample of pressurized water from the water line;

the water quality parameter is transmitted to a remote location by a data transmitter positioned near the pit cover.

41. The water sampling method according to claim 38, wherein the water sampling device is adapted to measure one or more of the following parameters:

(a) transient pressure;

(b) the temperature of the water;

(c) the pH of the water;

(d) oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP);

(e) electrical conductivity (Ec);

(f) free chlorine concentration.

42. The water sampling method of claim 40 or 41, further comprising:

connecting the first sampling line to a water line, flowing water from the water line to a dynamic pressure detector, and measuring a transient pressure in the water line;

and connecting the second sampling pipeline with the water pipeline, enabling water to flow from the water pipeline to a plurality of sampling chambers with corresponding sampling probes, and sampling the water sample flowing into the sampling chambers to obtain water quality parameters.

43. The method of claim 42, further comprising the step of: activating a sampling valve disposed in fluid communication with the first and second sampling lines; the sampling valve is in electronic communication with the processor to execute sampling instructions written onto the non-volatile memory, the sampling valve being actuated in accordance with the sampling instructions.

44. The method of any one of claims 42 or 43, further comprising the steps of: transmitting the water quality parameter to a remotely located processing unit by using a transmitter; processing, using a processing unit, water quality parameters of one or more samples sampled by a sampling device according to one or more water quality parameter processing instructions written onto a non-volatile storage device in communication with the processing unit.

45. The method of any one of claims 42 to 44, wherein the method comprises: performing an initial water sampling step, identifying a transient pressure in the pipeline by using the dynamic pressure sensor, and transmitting information related to the transient pressure to the receiver and the signal processor; the signal processor is arranged to receive and process information relating to the transient pressure by determining whether the transient pressure in the pipeline meets a predetermined criterion, and, upon reaching the predetermined criterion, to transmit a response signal to the control unit for performing one or more additional water sampling steps.

46. The method of claim 45, further comprising the step of: operating the water sampling system in a low power consumption operating configuration when a predetermined criterion is not satisfied.

47. The method of claim 46, further comprising the step of: when the predetermined criterion is not satisfied, the water sampling rate or the data recording rate is increased.

Technical Field

The invention relates to a water sampling and detecting system for detecting water quality.

Background

Any reference to methods, apparatus or documents of the prior art should not be taken as an acknowledgement or admission that they form or form part of the common general knowledge.

It is important to monitor the quality of water flowing through a water supply line (commonly referred to as a "water line") from time to ensure that the water is suitable for human consumption. One of the conventional methods of monitoring water quality is to assign technicians to specific water quality monitoring locations. Technicians enter the water supply and collect water samples, which are then sent to the laboratory for detailed analysis. Once the results are known, the water supply may need to take specific actions to address any water quality issues. One of the problems with this test method is that real-time testing is not possible and water quality problems typically persist for a long time before any potential problems are resolved.

In some cases, a technician may carry a portable detection device, including a portable sampling device from work to work. Again, portable test devices are only suitable for "one-time" testing and do not allow continuous monitoring of water quality (including changes in water quality) over long periods of days or months.

Installing water quality monitoring equipment that can monitor water quality for long periods of time is challenging because such equipment is relatively expensive; moreover, water quality monitoring equipment is often required to be installed in public places, so that the equipment is easy to damage and even possibly stolen. Furthermore, such devices typically operate in an autonomous manner, and any operational changes typically require a technician to personally visit the installation and site and deploy the changes, which also presents unique operational challenges.

In view of the above, it is desirable to solve some of the problems of the prior art and to provide an improved system for monitoring water quality.

Disclosure of Invention

In one aspect, the present invention provides a lid mounted water sampling system adapted for fluid connection with a water line for obtaining a water quality parameter corresponding to a pressurized water sample from the water line and transmitting information related to the water quality parameter to a remote location, the system comprising:

a pit cover adapted to be positioned to cover the pit box such that an outer surface of the pit cover is substantially at ground level during use, and adapted to be positioned in the pit box located underground;

the sump cover further comprising an in-use lower portion connected to a water sampling device adapted to be positioned in an interior volume defined by the sump housing, the water sampling device being fluidly connected to the water line for obtaining a water quality parameter corresponding to a pressurized water sample from the water line; and

a data transmitter located proximate to the pit cover in electronic communication with the water sampling device for transmitting the water quality parameter to a remote location.

In one embodiment, the lid-mounted water sampling system further comprises: one or more connectors, preferably quick-coupling connectors, are used to connect the water sampling device to the water line, so that the lid-mounted water sampling system is adapted to be conveniently disconnected from the water line.

In one embodiment, the water sampling device is adapted to measure one or more of the following parameters: (a) transient pressure; (b) the temperature of the water; (c) the pH of the water; (d) oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP); (e) electrical conductivity (Ec); (f) free chlorine concentration.

In further embodiments, the system may also measure one or more of the following parameters: the concentration of hypochlorous acid; disinfectant residues; the TC concentration; turbidity; total organic carbon concentration; the total chlorine concentration; (ii) a combined chlorine concentration; the hydrogen peroxide concentration.

In one embodiment, the lid-mounted water sampling system further comprises: a first sampling line connected to the water line for allowing water to flow from the water line to the dynamic pressure detector to measure a transient pressure in the water line; and a second sampling line connected to the water line for allowing water to flow from the water line to a plurality of sampling chambers having respective sampling probes adapted to sample water quality parameters of a water sample flowing into the sampling chambers.

In one embodiment, the dynamic pressure sensor is arranged to perform an initial water sampling step to identify transient pressures in the pipeline and to send transient pressure related information to the receiver and signal processor; the signal processor being arranged to receive and process information relating to transient pressure to determine whether the transient pressure in the pipeline meets a predetermined criterion; the signal processor communicates with the control unit to perform one or more additional water sampling steps when predetermined criteria are met.

In one embodiment, the control unit is arranged to operate the water sampling system in a low power consumption operating configuration when the predetermined criterion is not satisfied.

In one embodiment, the control unit is programmed or programmable to increase the water sampling rate or data recording rate if a predetermined criterion is not met.

In one embodiment, the water sampling device further comprises a sampling valve to control the flow of water from the water line into the first and second sampling lines.

In one embodiment, the sampling valve is in electronic communication with the data transceiver to allow remote actuation of the sampling valve.

In one embodiment, the sampling valve is in electronic communication with the processor to execute sampling instructions written on a non-volatile memory device arranged in communication with the processor, the sampling valve being actuated in accordance with the sampling instructions.

In one embodiment, the water sampling device further comprises a pressure reducing valve positioned in fluid communication with the second sampling line for reducing the pressure of water flowing from the water line into the plurality of water sampling chambers.

In one embodiment, the transmitter further comprises an antenna element fixed relative to the pit cover, wherein a top of the antenna element is located near an underside of the pit cover for transmitting information related to said water quality parameter to a remote location.

In one embodiment, the data transmitter for transmitting the water quality parameter to the remotely located processing unit is configured to: receiving and processing water quality parameters of one or more samples sampled by a sampling device according to one or more water quality parameter processing instructions written to a remotely located non-volatile memory unit in communication with the remotely located processing unit.

In one embodiment, the data transmitter is adapted for wired or wireless communication with a remote server.

In one embodiment, the water sampling system further comprises a frame assembly for mounting the water sampling device in an underside portion of the sump cover, the frame assembly being connected to an underside of the sump cover.

In one embodiment, the water sampling system of any one of the preceding claims further comprising: an onboard processing unit in communication with the water sampling device and the data transmitter for processing information related to the water quality parameter and transmitting to a remote location.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a lid-mounted water sampling system comprising: a housing for enclosing at least a portion of a water sampling device having a sealing means located along or adjacent an underside portion of a sump cover adapted to be positioned to cover the sump tank, the sealing means for forming a seal between the housing and the sump cover and/or the water sampling device.

In one embodiment, the sealing means is located in an upper part of the housing in use, which forms a seal between the housing and the sump cover and/or the water sampling device.

In one embodiment, the housing in combination with the water sampling device and/or the sump cover has a negative buoyancy to prevent the combination of the sump cover, the water sampling device, and the housing from becoming buoyant when immersed in water.

In one embodiment, the housing further comprises an outlet opening to allow water from the interior of the housing to drain to the exterior of the housing.

In one embodiment, the outlet is located in a lower, in-use portion of the housing.

In one embodiment, the housing includes a base formed in an in-use lower portion of the housing, the base having an upstanding wall extending from the base in a direction toward the sump cover, the outlet being positioned at the base of the housing.

In one embodiment, the water sampling system further comprises a sample pressure regulator to regulate the pressure of the water flowing through the water sampling device to above 101kPa, and preferably in the range of 130kPa to 210 kPa.

The present invention is in no way limited to a lid-mounted water sampling system. In another aspect, the present invention provides a water sampling system adapted to be fluidly connected to a water line for obtaining a water quality parameter corresponding to a pressurized water sample from the water line and transmitting information related to the water quality parameter to a remote location, the system comprising:

a water sampling device adapted to be positioned below a lower portion of a pit cover within an interior volume defined by a pit box, the pit cover adapted to be positioned to cover the pit box such that an outer surface of the pit cover is substantially at ground level during use and adapted to be positioned on the pit box located underground;

a water sampling device fluidly connected to the water line for obtaining a water quality parameter corresponding to the pressurized water sample from the water line; and

a data transmitter located proximate to the pit cover in electronic communication with the water sampling device for transmitting the water quality parameter to a remote location.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of sampling water, the method comprising the steps of:

placing a water sampling device under a lower portion of a pit cover adapted to be positioned to cover a pit box such that an outer surface of the pit cover is substantially at ground level during use and adapted to be positioned on the pit box located underground;

fluidly connecting the water sampling device to sample pressurized water from a water line to obtain a water quality parameter corresponding to a sample of pressurized water from the water line;

the water quality parameter is transmitted to a remote location by a data transmitter positioned near the pit cover.

In one embodiment, the method includes measuring one or more of the following parameters:

(a) transient pressure;

(b) the temperature of the water;

(c) the pH of the water;

(d) oxidation Reduction Potential (ORP);

(e) electrical conductivity (Ec);

(f) free chlorine concentration.

In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: connecting the first sampling line with a water line to allow water to flow from the water line to the dynamic pressure detector and to measure a transient pressure in the water line; the second sampling line is connected to the water line to allow water to flow from the water line into the plurality of sampling chambers having respective sampling probes to sample a water quality parameter of the water flowing into the sampling chambers.

In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: activating a sampling valve disposed in fluid communication with the first and second sampling lines, the sampling valve in electronic communication with the processor to execute a sampling instruction written onto the non-volatile memory device, the sampling valve actuated in accordance with the sampling instruction.

In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: the method comprises transmitting the water quality parameter to a remotely located processing unit by use of a transmitter, processing the water quality parameter of one or more samples sampled by the sampling device according to one or more water quality parameter processing instructions written onto a non-volatile storage device in communication with the processing unit by use of the processing unit.

In one embodiment, the method comprises: performing an initial water sampling step to identify a transient pressure in the pipeline by using the dynamic pressure sensor and transmitting transient pressure related information to the receiver and the signal processor; the signal processor is arranged to receive and process the transient pressure by determining whether the transient pressure in the line meets a predetermined criterion and, when the predetermined criterion is met, transmitting a response signal to the control unit to perform one or more additional water sampling steps.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises the steps of: the water sampling system is operated in a low power consumption operating configuration when the predetermined criteria is not satisfied.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises the steps of: the water sampling rate or the data recording rate is increased when the predetermined criterion is not satisfied.

Drawings

Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, which provides those skilled in the art with sufficient information to practice the invention. The detailed description should not be construed to limit the scope of the foregoing summary in any way. The detailed description will refer to the following several figures:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a lid-mounted water sampling and detection system 10 in use, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the lid-mounted water sampling and detection system 10;

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a water sampling and detection system 10 in communication with a remotely located computing device over a network N; FIG. 4 is a lower perspective view of the water sampling and detection system 10;

FIG. 5 is a bottom side view of the water sampling and detection system 10;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged side view of the water sampling and detection system 10;

FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of the water sampling and detection system 10 and the sump tank 20;

FIG. 8 is a side view of the water sampling and detection system 10 contained within a sealed enclosure 50, located within the sump housing 20;

FIG. 9 is a lower side view of the housing 50 showing the sealing configuration with the pit cover 11;

fig. 10 is an enlarged view of the underside of the housing 50;

FIG. 11 illustrates the water sampling and detection system 10 shown in a connected configuration, wherein a quick connect coupling connects the inlet 14 with the water line and outlet 19 to drain water from the sump tank 20;

FIG. 12 illustrates the use of a dynamic pressure detector S_TPA step of detecting a transient pressure (as shown in fig. 3);

FIG. 14 is a graph of transient pressure versus time showing a dynamic pressure detection method (low sample rate) and detected transient pressure events (event 1 and event 2);

FIG. 15 shows the transient pressure at a high sampling rate (per millisecond) during event 1;

fig. 16 shows the transient pressure at a high sampling rate (per millisecond) during event 2.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1-9 illustrate a lid-mounted water sampling and detection system 10 that is adapted to be fluidly connected to a water manifold (W) as shown in fig. 3. The water sampling system 10 is used to obtain a water quality parameter corresponding to a pressurized water sample from a water line (W) and transmit information related to the water quality parameter to a remote location via a network (N). The system water sampling system 10 includes a water sampling device 12 mounted to a lower portion of a pit cover 11 adapted to cover an underground pit box 20. The pit cover 11 includes an outer (or upper surface in use) 13 that includes structural features that allow the pit cover 10 to be stepped on or rolled. The pit cover 11 is adapted to be positioned to cover the pit box 20 such that the outer surface 13 of the pit cover 11 is substantially at ground level during use and is adapted to be positioned on the pit box 20 located underground.

The lower portion of the pit cover 11 is connected to a water sampling device 12. During use, the water sampling device 12 is adapted to be positioned in the interior volume defined by the sump tank 20 such that the water sampling device 12 is not visible above ground level. This configuration allows the water sampling and detection system 10 to be substantially hidden from view. The above-described configuration also allows the water sampling and detection system 10 to be easily used in conjunction with conventional pit boxes (e.g., pit box 20) typically used to install water meters.

The water sampling device 12 may include an inlet 14 that may be provided with a quick-connect fitting to fluidly connect the water line (W) to obtain a water quality parameter corresponding to a sample of pressurized water from the water line (W). A sample valve 25 is provided alongside the water inlet 14 to control the flow of water (sample stream) into the water sampling assembly 12. The sampling valve 25 may be provided in the form of an electrically actuated solenoid valve and is in communication with the processing unit P. One or more water sampling programs may be stored locally on the non-volatile memory device M in communication with the on-board processing unit P. In some embodiments, the sampling valve 25 may be actuated from a remote location. For example, the processing unit P may communicate with a data transceiver 15, which data transceiver 15 may receive operating instructions from a remotely connected device via the network N.

The water sampling device 12 comprises a sampling line L which is divided into a first sampling line L1And a second sampling line L2. The first sampling line L1 is connected to the water line to allow water to flow from the water line to the dynamic pressure sensor S_TPThe dynamic pressure sensor S_TPSuitable for measuring transient pressures at sampling rates spanning a wide range. For example, a pressure sensor S_TPThe transient pressure of the water flowing through the pipeline 1 can be measured with high accuracy, ranging from once every half hour to once every millisecond. Dynamic pressure sensor S_TPCommunicates with an on-board processing unit P, which in turn communicates with an on-board non-volatile memory unit M.

Dynamic transient pressure sensor S_TPIn conjunction with the on-board signal processing unit P, the measured transient pressure is identified and processed based on user-defined parameters or criteria. During the initial sampling step transient pressure detection, the data sampling rate remains constant, however, the data is all recorded in permanent memory and preferably transmitted and stored at a remote location for further retrieval and analysis. In the low power mode of operation, measurements are taken and recorded at a relatively low sampling rate. Referring to fig. 11, a flow chart depicts a preferred method of operating a dynamic pressure sensor in the presently described water sampling system embodiment. When the transient pressure meets predetermined criteria, the operator may program the on-board memory unit M to set the sampling rate to a preset parameter. Each time by a dynamic pressure sensor S_TPWhen transient pressure is measured, the on-board signal processing unit P will process the measured transient pressure parameter to assess whether a predetermined criterion is met. In one example shown in FIG. 13, transient pressure changes exceeding 100kPa trigger events (event 1 and event 2). It should be understood that such criteria are not limiting, and that the operator may preset a number of other predetermined criteria without departing from the scope of the present invention. Once an event is triggered, the on-board processing unit P communicates with the controller to increase the sampling rate. As shown in fig. 14 and 15, a change in transient pressure triggers a measurement of the transient pressure once every millisecond, thereby producing high resolution data only during the detection of an event. High frequency data detection and recording continues until the pressure in sample line L1 returns to a steady state value that does not meet the predetermined criteria set by the operator. Book (I)One of the non-limiting advantages of the embodiments is to run the dynamic pressure sensor S at a low sampling rate when no event is detected_TPResulting in lower power consumption, less wear and extension of the dynamic pressure sensor S_TPThe life of (2). This measurement method also reduces the amount of measurement data that needs to be stored at a remote location on a storage device (e.g., a server). In short, when such details are needed, the large number of data points during an event may provide detailed insight into the nature of transient pressure changes. Some of the most severe transient pressure changes may last only a few seconds, and it is impractical to sample transient pressures at very high frequencies over very long periods of time, and the presently described water sampling system 10 addresses this problem in an elegant manner.

The second sampling line L2 is connected to a plurality of sampling chambers S1-S5 to direct the flow of water from the water line to the sampling chambers S1-S5. As best shown in FIG. 6, each sampling chamber S1-S5 includes sampling probes for measuring free chlorine concentration (probe 121), temperature (probe 122), oxidation-reduction potential (probe 123), conductivity Ec (probe 124), and pH (probe 125). Once the sampling probe associated with sampling chambers S1-S5 samples water, the sampled water may be released through outlet 19. The outlet 19 may also be provided with a quick-connect fitting to allow the outlet 19 to be connected to a drain line D (as shown in figure 3). A pressure reducing valve 16 is provided in line with the second sampling line L2 for reducing the pressure of water entering the water sampling chambers S1-S5. Tap water pressure in the tap water line (W) may be as high as 1000kPa, and the use of the pressure reducing valve 16 will reduce the pressure to a lower pressure, for example 350 kPa. The pressure reducing capacity of the valve 16 may vary depending on the desired application. The use of a pressure reducing valve 16 to reduce the pressure increases the residence time of the water in each sampling chamber, thereby improving the sampling accuracy.

It is important to note that the use of the pressure reducing valve 16 must be limited to the second sample line L2 and the pressure must not be reduced in the first sample line L1 for monitoring transient pressure changes. The novel configuration of sampling device 12 allows transient pressure and other important parameters, such as chlorine concentration (probe 121), temperature (probe 122), oxidation-reduction potential (probe 123), conductivity Ec (probe 124), and pH (probe 125) to be measured simultaneously. Transient pressure changes may occur for a number of reasons, and a change in transient pressure alone does not provide decisive details as to whether the change occurred due to a mechanical reason (e.g. opening or closing of a valve) or whether there was a leak, leading to a higher risk of water contamination. For example, any leak may create a negative transient pressure, thereby introducing contaminants into the water line. By measuring multiple characteristics as well as transient pressures using the lid-mounted water sampling system 10, a higher level of detail is provided to the operator and end user, thereby improving the operator's ability to detect problems in the water lines in a more efficient manner.

It is also important to note that the water sampling device 12 includes a plurality of sampling probes in respective sampling chambers, e.g., S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, adapted to sample water quality parameters of a sampled water sample. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of sampling probes 121-125 are connected in series such that water from the sampling line flows from one sampling chamber to another (in series) for sampling of the water. Additional probes and additional sampling chambers may be used to measure one or more of the following parameters: the concentration of hypochlorous acid; disinfectant residues; the TC concentration; turbidity; total organic carbon concentration; the total chlorine concentration; (ii) a combined chlorine concentration; the hydrogen peroxide concentration.

Before beginning to describe the operation of the water sampling device 12 shown in the figures, a brief discussion of ORP measurement is necessary. ORP is a measure of the electron exchange potential that occurs in an ion reaction. Since most water distribution systems dispense varying amounts of water, an undesirable balance is often created. ORP measurements allow control of the electrochemical equilibrium.

The water flow in the water pipe is highly turbulent. Thus, any contaminants will quickly form a well-mixed "plug" that will retain its original concentration for a longer period of time than it remains in the line. In one case, the probe may detect a 30mV redox potential or higher rise or fall due to the introduction of contaminants. Many other pest substances or living biological organisms will have a similar effect on redox potential, protecting the concentration of biological substances introduced at very low concentrations by removing the chlorine mask through substantial reduction of chlorine or through co-introduction of chemical reducing agents. The probe or probes can detect loss of chlorination for whatever reason, which will allow for the proliferation of harmful microorganisms that are normally present in water or absorbed into mucus covering the interior of a water pipe.

The ORP probe may be non-specific, providing a broad response to the introduction of biological or chemical reducing agents into the chlorinated water. In one embodiment, an ORP probe may include a pair of electrodes: one is a Pt or graphite coated electrode; the other is a harmless reference electrode, of the type of Ag/AgCl electrode used in medical procedures. The probe in various embodiments includes a pair of electrodes that output a potential proportional to the amount and intensity of oxidizing material in the water at near equilibrium conditions. The potential or oxidation potential is insensitive to the nature of the oxidizing agent and is responsive to all commonly used disinfectants, including elemental chlorine, sodium hypochlorite, chloramines, chlorine dioxide, hydrogen peroxide or ozone, and even elemental oxygen. ORP probes can be enhanced by binding to a pH sensor or specific ion electrode for elemental chlorine or other toxic ions or compounds. The probes located in sampling chambers S1-S5 may operate as autonomous units. One or more of the sampling chambers S1-S5 may measure the oxidation-reduction potential of the sampled water and transmit water sample data, as described in the sections below.

The sampling probes located in each of the sampling chambers S1-S5 are in signal communication with an on-board signal processor P that is operable to receive and process measured water quality parameters (as measured by one or more of the sampling probes). The operating and processing instructions for operating the sampling probe may be written on a non-volatile memory device M in communication with the processor P to allow operation of the sampling apparatus 120. The data transceiver 15 communicates with the processing unit P, transmits the processed water quality parameters to the processor P, and transmits from the processor P to a remote server or computing device via the network N. In a preferred embodiment, the operation of the water sampling apparatus 12 is controlled or programmed by a remote server or computing device (preferably a cloud-based or network-based interface) to allow the operating program of the sampling apparatus 120 to be changed from a remote location.

Once the information relating to the water quality parameter is received at the remote server, the server may process the information according to one or more predetermined rules. For example, a rule to check whether the pH level of the sample water is below a predetermined threshold level may be saved to the memory device M. Similarly, another rule to check whether the ORP of the sample water is above or below a predetermined threshold level may be saved to the memory device. Similarly, a combination involving multiple rules may be saved on a storage device. Furthermore, these rules may be routinely modified at remote locations depending on the specific requirements of the water distribution and management system.

As previously mentioned, the water sampling device 12 may also measure the pressure change in the water line W over a period of time (referred to as a "transient pressure"). By initially determining predefined transient pressure wave characteristics to build a database, and then matching those predefined characteristics to actual transient pressure measurements, events associated with particular types of water can be detected. The transient pressure wave signature indicated by the output signal from the sampling apparatus 12 may be compared to predefined transient pressure wave signatures stored or saved on a memory device M or a remotely located server. Thus, the previously described method of obtaining a transient pressure value at a higher sampling rate when a predetermined transient pressure event is triggered may be very useful.

The processor P and memory device M may also be accessed from a remote location over the network N using a user input interface connected to a remote server or remote computing device to check the operating state of the sampling apparatus 12, change or manage the sampling program and configuration, and update the operating firmware of the processor P.

The data transceiver 15 also includes an antenna element a secured beneath the outer surface 13 of the pit cover 11. In a preferred embodiment, the top of the antenna element a (best shown in fig. 2) is positioned near the underside of the pit cover 11 for transmitting information relating to the measured water quality parameter to a remotely located computing device. Advantageously, the system is also equipped with an onboard GPS unit G that communicates with GPS satellites G1 through G3 to indicate the geographic location of the water sampling and detection system 10. Positioning the antenna element a in close proximity to the pit cover 11 significantly improves data transmission from the water sampling system 10 to a remote location. Similarly, positioning the GPS unit G at a position close to the pit cover 11 improves the positioning accuracy of the water sampling system 10.

Sampling chambers S1-S5 are mounted on frame assembly 17 for removably mounting water sampling device 12 in an underside portion of pit cover 11. Frame assembly 17 allows vertically oriented sampling chambers S1-S5 to extend downwardly from the underside of pit cover 11, thereby allowing sampling device 120 to be received within the confines of pit box 20.

It should be understood that signal communication between the data transmitter 15 (via network N) and a remote server or any other remote device may be via a cellular network, using for example a GSM, GPRS, 3G, 4G or 5G network. The techniques may also be configured to transmit and receive serial signals for communication over one or more wireless or fiber optic networks. The technology may also be configured to communicate with a remote device through an ethernet connection, 400-and 900MHz radio, microwave radio, or bluetooth device. Other signal connection methods may also be used to actuate the sampling valve 25 or to transmit information from the sampling device 12 to a remote location. .

One of the many advantages of the presently described water sampling and detection system 10 is that it can be located below ground level (as shown in fig. 2), while also providing information relating to water quality parameters to a remote location in real time without any delay. The compact and concealed configuration of the system 10 allows the system 10 to be easily installed with crates that have been widely used around the world.

Referring to fig. 7-11, the water sampling system 10 further includes a housing 50 for enclosing the water sampling device 12. The housing 50 is preferably provided in the shape of a hollow cuboid (although other shapes may be provided without departing from the scope of the invention described herein) and includes a base remote from the pot lid 11, with the upright walls of the housing 50 extending towards the pot lid 11 in use. The upper part of the upright wall is sealed to the pit cover 11 by using a sealing gasket 54. When sealed, the housing 50 provides an air pocket in which the water sampling device 12 is received. One of the potential problems with any electrical equipment installed in the pit box 20 is sudden flooding or flooding, which invariably causes damage to the electrical components of the water sampling apparatus 12. The housing 50, which forms a seal to form the air pocket in which the sampling device 12 is housed, will reduce the likelihood of damage to the water sampling device 12. The fastening clip 52 is used to fasten the housing 50 to the pit cover 11, thereby maintaining the sealed configuration of the housing 50.

The housing 50 is also weighted (e.g., by using a weighted member 56) so that the combination of the pit cover 11, the water sampling device 12, and the housing 50 creates a negative buoyancy when the combination is submerged in water filling the pit box 20. The negatively buoyant combination of the pit cover 11, water sampling apparatus 12 and housing 50 pushes against the edge of the pit box 20, preventing the combination from popping up to float on the water surface during a flood event. A drain 58 is also provided at the bottom of the housing 50 to allow water to drain out of the housing in the event of a small leak or standing water (due to condensation) within the housing 50. The air within the sealed enclosure 50 prevents any water from entering through the outlet 58. The size and location of the outlet 58 is designed to ensure that even as the water pressure rises (due to the increased water level), the water pressure compresses the air within the housing 50 more. However, because the air within the sealed enclosure 50 cannot escape, the air continues to occupy volume within the enclosure 50, thereby preventing water from damaging the water sampling device 12. Furthermore, the pressure relief valve 16 regulates the water pressure to a pressure above 101.35kPa, preferably in the range between 137kPa and 206kPa, so that any water leakage from any part of the water sampling device 12 within the housing 50 at any time will occur at a pressure above the atmospheric pressure of 101.35 kPa. As a result, any water that leaks into the enclosure 50 will pass through the outlet 58 to the atmosphere outside the enclosure 50, or where the enclosure 50 itself is surrounded by water, which will then enter the ambient water in the sump tank 20.

In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific as to structural or methodical features. The terms "comprise" and variations thereof, such as "comprises" and "comprising," are used throughout in an inclusive sense and do not exclude any additional features.

It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific features shown or described, since the means herein described comprise preferred forms of putting the invention into effect.

The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications as appropriately interpreted by a person skilled in the art, within the proper scope of the appended claims.