Systems and methods for collecting and transporting fluid samples

Abstract

Systems and methods for collecting and transporting fluid samples. In one embodiment, the system may include at least one device, which may include a rotatable shaft, one or more other moving parts, and at least one fluid path containing a lubricating fluid. The system may also include at least one sample container and at least one unmanned aerial vehicle, which is configured to transport the at least one sample container. The system may also include at least one valve, which may be configured to open and discharge a lubricating fluid sample from the at least one fluid path into the at least one sample container. At least one unmanned aerial vehicle station may be configured to receive the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle. At least one retaining and loading mechanism may be configured to move the at least one sample container.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to systems and methods for determining the operational health of equipment. More specifically, these embodiments relate to systems and methods for collecting and analyzing data and fluid samples from equipment. Background Art

[0002] Accessing equipment located in remote areas or far from spare or replacement parts and repair facilities can be difficult, expensive, and potentially dangerous. Unexpected maintenance events for equipment in remote locations can often cost tens, hundreds, or even millions of dollars in downtime. As a result, equipment operators often employ conservative, planned preventive maintenance programs to avoid the risks associated with unexpected damage to expensive assets, especially when equipment is in remote locations. This conservative approach increases operating costs, some of which could be avoided with better or more readily available information about the health of the equipment.

[0003] Used oil analysis programs are commonly used to monitor equipment and oil health. This oil analysis program is similar to a routine blood test in humans, such as the blood test performed during an annual physical. Used oil analysis can provide early warning of equipment problems so that preventive measures can be implemented to keep the equipment running. However, used oil analysis of equipment in remote locations increases the complexity, cost and risk of equipment operations. Typically, personnel need to travel to the equipment to obtain samples. In addition, unexpected equipment failures require multiple personnel to immediately access the remote equipment to diagnose and repair the problem. During these failures, used oil samples are obtained while the problem is being diagnosed and used for additional evaluation after the repair is completed. This means that technicians are not using this used oil analysis data to help diagnose the problem that needs to be repaired, nor are they using this data to optimize the maintenance schedule. Instead, they are acting in a reactive manner. The tension between preventive maintenance actions and avoiding unplanned damage leads to uncertainty in equipment health.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for systems and methods for safely collecting and / or analyzing data and fluid samples from equipment in remote locations to reduce uncertainty in equipment health, thereby allowing operational changes that extend equipment life and make preventive maintenance more predictable and timely. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present invention provides systems and methods for collecting and transporting fluid samples. In one embodiment, the system may include at least one device for generating power or electricity. The at least one device may include a rotatable shaft, one or more other moving parts and at least one fluid path containing a lubricating fluid, wherein the rotatable shaft, the one or more other moving parts or both are in fluid communication with the lubricating fluid in the at least one fluid path. The system may also include at least one sample container. At least one unmanned aerial vehicle may be configured to transport the at least one sample container to a position separated from the at least one device. At least one valve may be in fluid communication with the at least one fluid path and in fluid communication with the at least one sample container. The at least one valve may be configured to open and discharge a lubricating fluid sample from the at least one fluid path to the at least one sample container. At least one unmanned aerial vehicle station may be disposed on the at least one device or disposed around the at least one device. The at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station may be configured to dock or receive the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle. At least one retaining and loading mechanism may be disposed on the at least one device or disposed near the at least one device. The at least one retaining and loading mechanism may be configured to move the at least one sample container to the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station or to the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station.

[0006] In one embodiment, a method for collecting and transporting a fluid sample may include opening at least one valve to discharge at least one lubricating fluid sample in at least one fluid path into at least one sample container. The at least one fluid path may be located within a device. The device may be configured to generate power or electricity. The device may include a rotatable shaft and one or more other moving parts. The rotatable shaft, one or more other moving parts, or both may be in fluid communication with the lubricating fluid in the at least one fluid path. At least one sample container may be located outside the at least one device. At least one unmanned aerial vehicle may be configured to transport the at least one sample container containing the at least one lubricating fluid sample to another location separate from the at least one device. At least one unmanned aerial vehicle station may be disposed on the at least one device or disposed around the at least one device. The at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station may be configured to dock or receive the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle. At least one retaining and loading mechanism may be disposed on the at least one device or disposed near the at least one device. The at least one retaining and loading mechanism may be configured to move the at least one sample container to the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station or to the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station. The method may also include disposing the at least one sample container onto the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle via the at least one retaining and loading mechanism. The method may also include transporting the at least one lubrication fluid sample to a location separate from the device via an unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0007] In one embodiment, the method for collecting and transporting fluid samples may include piercing the surface of the sample container with a filling head mechanism, wherein the filling head mechanism may be in communication with a valve fluid, and after piercing, in communication with the internal volume fluid of the sample container. The method may also include opening a valve to discharge the lubricating fluid sample in the fluid path into the sample container, wherein the fluid path may be located in the device, and the device may be configured to generate power and electricity. The device may include a rotatable shaft and one or more other moving parts. The rotatable shaft, one or more other moving parts, or both may be in fluid communication with the lubricating fluid in the fluid path. The sample container may be located outside the device. An unmanned aerial vehicle may be configured to transport a sample container containing a lubricating fluid sample to a position separated from the at least one device. An unmanned aerial vehicle station may be arranged on the device or around the device, wherein the unmanned aerial vehicle station may be configured to dock or receive an unmanned aerial vehicle. A retention and loading mechanism may be arranged on the device or near the device, wherein the retention and loading mechanism may be configured to move the sample container to the unmanned aerial vehicle station or around the unmanned aerial vehicle station. The method may also include associating metadata with the sample container, wherein a portion of an outer surface of the sample container includes a visual identification symbol, the metadata including data identifying the device, a time and date when the lubricating fluid sample was discharged into the sample container, and at least one operating parameter of the device when the lubricating fluid sample was discharged. The method may also include: removably placing or attaching the sample container to a portion of an unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the unmanned aerial vehicle is disposed on the unmanned aerial vehicle station; and commanding the unmanned aerial vehicle to transport the lubricating fluid sample to the location. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] In order to be able to understand the above-mentioned features of the present invention in detail, the present invention briefly summarized above can be described in more detail by reference to embodiments, some of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be noted that the accompanying drawings only show typical embodiments of the present invention and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present invention, because the scope of the present invention may allow other equally effective embodiments.

[0009] Figure 1 Depicted is a schematic diagram of an illustrative system for collecting and transporting fluid samples in accordance with one or more embodiments.

[0010] Figure 2 Depicted is a schematic diagram of an illustrative fill head mechanism for discharging a fluid sample into a sample container in accordance with one or more embodiments.

[0011] Figure 3 Depicted is a schematic diagram of an illustrative retention and loading mechanism for positioning and moving one or more sample containers in accordance with one or more embodiments.

[0012] Figure 4 Depicted is a schematic diagram of another illustrative system for collecting and transporting fluid samples in accordance with one or more embodiments.

[0013] Figure 5 Depicted is a schematic diagram of yet another illustrative system for collecting and transporting fluid samples in accordance with one or more embodiments.

[0014] Figure 6 Depicted is a schematic diagram of an illustrative wind turbine farm including an illustrative fluid sampling and transport system in accordance with one or more embodiments.

[0015] Figure 7 Depicted is a diagram of a method according to one or more embodiments Figure 6 Schematic diagram of an exemplary wind turbine farm including another embodiment of an exemplary fluid sampling and transport system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] It should be understood that the following disclosure describes several exemplary embodiments for implementing different features, structures and / or functions of the present invention. Exemplary embodiments of components, arrangements and configurations are described below to simplify the present disclosure; however, these exemplary embodiments are provided by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. In addition, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and / or letters in various exemplary embodiments and in the accompanying drawings provided herein. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity, and does not itself specify the relationship between the various exemplary embodiments and / or configurations discussed in the figures. In addition, the exemplary embodiments presented below may be combined in any combination, i.e., any element from one exemplary embodiment may be used in any other exemplary embodiment without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 1A schematic diagram of an exemplary system 100 for collecting and transporting fluid samples according to one or more embodiments is depicted. System 100 may include one or more devices 103 (one is shown) for generating power or electricity, from which fluid samples can be obtained. System 100 may further include at least one fluid sampling and transport system 104. The one or more devices 103 for generating power or electricity can be arranged in enclosure 101. Enclosure 101 can be any enclosure, including but not limited to wind turbine enclosure or nacelle. The one or more devices 103 for generating power or electricity can be parts of a wind turbine, and can include but not limited to generator 112, gearbox, yaw motor or yaw gear transmission. Rotor 102 can transfer rotational energy to the device 103 for generating power or electricity through a rotatable shaft 114, wherein rotor 102 has one or more blades 118 (two are shown) arranged thereon. Brake 113 can control the speed at which rotatable shaft 114 can rotate.

[0018] The fluid sampling and transport system 104 may include one or more valves 130 (one shown), one or more sample containers 140 (one shown), and an unmanned aerial vehicle 150. The fluid sampling and transport system 104 may also include a sample conduit 132, a retention and loading mechanism 175, a sample controller 170, and one or more sample sensors 172. The fluid sampling and transport system 104 may dispense one or more fluid samples, such as lubricating fluid samples, from the device 103 for generating power or electricity to the one or more sample containers 140, and transport the fluid samples in the one or more sample containers 140 to other locations. The fluid sampling and transport system 104 may be partially or completely disposed within, on, and / or through the enclosure 101.

[0019] The device 103 for generating power or electricity may include: one or more device enclosures 105 (one shown) having one or more moving parts 110 (one shown) therein; a fluid path 120; and a device controller 180. For simplicity and illustrative purposes only, the device 103 for generating power or electricity is depicted as including therein a generator 112 having a rotatable shaft 114 and at least one or more other moving parts 110 disposed within the enclosure 105, the at least one or more other moving parts 110 can generate power or electricity for use outside the device 103 for generating power or electricity; a fluid path 120 in fluid communication with the generator 112; and a device controller 180. The device 103 for generating power or electricity may be or include, but is not limited to, a vehicle, a generator, an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, a gear transmission, a hydraulic cylinder, a pneumatic cylinder, a gear box, a shaft, a brake, a turbocharger, a jet turbine, a supercharger, a battery, or a combination thereof. The device 103 for generating power or electricity can be arranged on the ground, on a platform, on a vehicle, or anywhere on another structure such as a column, a building, an elevated platform, a tower structure, suspended in the air or in space, etc. The device 103 for generating power or electricity can be stationary or mobile. For example, the device 103 for generating power or electricity can be arranged on a movable vehicle. In other examples, the device 103 for generating power or electricity can be arranged in an enclosure 101 (for example, a nacelle of a wind turbine), arranged on a tower structure, and the device 103 for generating power or electricity can rotate with the enclosure 101 around the axis of the tower structure.

[0020] The device enclosure 105 may be any enclosure or any structure in which the one or more moving parts 110 in fluid communication with the fluid path 120 may be disposed and operated in, through, and / or on the device enclosure 105. The one or more moving parts 110 may be any part, including but not limited to bearings, gears, pistons, shafts, fasteners, springs, magnets, wires, armatures, turntables, rotors, impellers, or any part that moves relative to another part or the device enclosure 105 during operation of the device 103 for generating power or electricity. The one or more moving parts 110 may be included in an assembly that may be at least partially disposed within the device enclosure 105. The one or more moving parts 110 may be in fluid communication with a lubricating fluid 122 contained within the fluid path 120 within the device 103 for generating power or electricity. The lubricating fluid 122 may lubricate the one or more moving parts 110 and / or regulate their temperature. The lubricating fluid 122 can be or include any lubricating fluid, including but not limited to oil, gas, water, instrument or service air, nitrogen, hydraulic oil, gear oil, drive train oil, gas engine and turbine oil, aviation turbine oil, electrical and thermal insulator oil, open gear oil, semi-fluid grease, machining oils and emulsions, honing oil, thermal oil (heat transfer oil), transformer oil, various types of solvents, maintenance oil, or combinations thereof.

[0021] The fluid path 120 may include an equipment conduit 124, a filter 167, a lubricating fluid pump 165, and a lubricating fluid reservoir 160, all of which are in fluid communication with each other. The equipment conduit 124 may deliver the lubricating fluid 122 between and / or within the filter 167, the lubricating fluid pump 165, the lubricating fluid reservoir 160, the equipment enclosure 105, and the one or more moving parts 110. The filter 167 may be any particle filter. The filter 167 may use physical filtration, chemical filtration, magnetic filtration, or a combination to filter particles from the lubricating fluid 122 as it flows through the filter 167. The lubricating fluid reservoir 160 may be or include any reservoir having an internal volume in which at least a portion of the lubricating fluid 122 may be placed.

[0022] The lubrication fluid pump 165 may be any pump capable of pressurizing the lubrication fluid 122 and moving the lubrication fluid throughout at least a portion of the device conduit 124. For example, the lubrication fluid pump 165 may pressurize the lubrication fluid 122 in the fluid path 120 to move the lubrication fluid 122 through the device conduit 124, throughout the device enclosure 105 and / or the one or more moving parts 110, to the filter 167 and the reservoir 160. Although depicted as a variable displacement pump, the lubrication fluid pump 165 may be a fixed displacement pump, a pneumatic pump, or any fluid pump.

[0023] Referring to the fluid sampling and transport system 104, a valve 130 can be in fluid communication with the device conduit 124. The valve 130 can also be in fluid communication with a sample conduit 132, such that when the valve is open, the sample conduit 132 can be in fluid communication with the device conduit 124. The device conduit 124 and the sample conduit 132 can be made of any suitable material. For example, the device conduit 124 and the sample conduit 132 can be made of copper, copper alloys, steel alloys, other alloys, synthetic fibers (such as polyester or nylon filaments), rubber, synthetic rubber, polyurethane, vinyl, polyvinyl chloride, glass, steel alloy wire spiral, spiral polyvinyl chloride plastic, or other suitable materials.

[0024] The valve 130 may be or include, but is not limited to, a sampling valve, a flow control valve, a pressure reducing valve, a check valve, a combination thereof, or any valve through which a fluid may flow. The operating mechanism of the valve 130 may be or include a ball valve, a butterfly valve, a diaphragm or membrane valve, a gate valve, a stop valve, a knife valve, a needle valve, a pinch valve, a piston valve, a plug valve, and / or a solenoid valve. In operation, the valve 130 may be opened and closed manually, by automation, or both, to provide a fluid sample from the lubricating fluid 122. For example, the valve 130 may be a solenoid valve, which may be an electrically actuated valve for controlling the amount of lubricating fluid 122 flowing through the valve 130 and into the sample container 140. As further explained below, the valve 130 may direct the fluid into the sample container 140 and / or back to the fluid path 120.

[0025] The sample container 140 can be any receptacle with at least one internal volume capable of accommodating a fluid sample therein. The internal volume can be divided into two or more internal volumes so that the sample container 140 can receive two or more unique fluid samples therein and can prevent sample mixing. The sample container 140 can include a hole 141 through which the fluid sample can flow. The sample conduit 132 can be placed in fluid communication with the internal volume of the sample container 140 so that the fluid sample can be arranged therein. The sample container 140 can include a removable lid or can be sealed. A stopper can be arranged in the hole 141 and seal the hole 141, or can be arranged in the lid. The surface, lid or stopper of the sample container 140 can be pierced to provide a conduit through which a fluid sample can flow. During operation, the sample container can be located near the end of the sample conduit 132 and / or the valve 130.

[0026] The retention and loading mechanism 175 can be or include a cylinder, a piston, a rod, a conveyor, a ramp, a latch, a station, a robotic arm, a carousel, and other components that can hold, manipulate, and / or move the sample container 140. For example, the retention and loading mechanism 175 can include a conveyor or ramp 152 that can move the sample container 140 to a desired position. The retention and loading mechanism 175 can include a cylinder 176, a piston 177, and a head 179 that can apply a force on the surface of the sample container 140 to move the sample container 140 to a desired position. The retention and loading mechanism 175 can be an electromechanical device, a pneumatic device, a hydraulic device, or a combination. The retention and loading mechanism 175 can hold and / or release the sample container 140. The retention and loading mechanism 175 can be operated to place, removably place, or attach the sample container 140 to at least a portion of the unmanned aerial vehicle 150.

[0027] The head 179 may also be configured or adapted to deliver, adhere, or print metadata about the fluid sample on the surface of the sample container 140. The metadata may include data identifying the device 103 for generating power or electricity, the time and date of discharging the fluid sample into the sample container 140, and at least one operating parameter of the device 103 for generating power or electricity when discharging the fluid sample. The at least one operating parameter may include the speed, temperature, or vibration of the rotatable shaft 114, the power output, speed, temperature, or vibration of the generator 112, the speed, temperature, or vibration of the gearbox, the yaw motor, the yaw gear transmission, or other internal or external components, or other operating parameters. The at least one operating parameter may also include one or more environmental conditions, such as the ambient temperature within the enclosure 101, the temperature outside the enclosure 101, the humidity inside and / or outside the enclosure 101, the wind speed outside the enclosure 101, or other environmental conditions.

[0028] The metadata may be printed directly on the surface of the sample container 140, may be printed on a label adhered to the surface of the sample container 140, or may be downloaded to an electronic chip, which may be adhered to the surface of the sample container 140 or otherwise disposed on or in the surface of the sample container 140. For example, the head 179 may include a print head that may print the metadata onto the sample container 140. The head 179 may also include a transmitter that may transmit the metadata to the electronic chip before or after the electronic chip is adhered to the surface of the sample container. In other embodiments, an identification symbol, such as a quick response ("QR") code or a bar code, may be etched, written, printed, pasted, or otherwise disposed on the outer surface of the sample container 140, and the head 179 may be configured to or adapted to read the identification symbol. For example, the head 179 may include an electronic camera or reader, such as a QR code or bar code reader that may read the identification symbol. The data associated with the identification symbol may be associated with metadata for the particular fluid sample and transmitted for future use, such as chain of custody purposes during processing and analysis of the particular fluid sample.

[0029] The unmanned aerial vehicle 150 may include a body 151, a cargo area 155, one or more rotors 156 (two are shown), each of which has one or more blades disposed thereon, and an aircraft controller 153. The unmanned aerial vehicle station 154 may be a location where the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 may land and depart. In an example, the unmanned aerial vehicle station 154 may be located or disposed near the enclosure 101, disposed within the enclosure 101, and / or disposed near the one or more devices 103 for generating power or electricity. The unmanned aerial vehicle station 154 may be close to or adjacent to the sample container 140, or adjacent to a location on the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 where the sample container 140 may be loaded or otherwise disposed in the unmanned aerial vehicle station 154.

[0030] The unmanned aerial vehicle station 154 and / or the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 may also include a conveyor or ramp 152 from a retention and loading mechanism 175 to move the sample container 140 to a desired location, such as to and around the unmanned aerial vehicle station 154, or to the unmanned aerial vehicle 150. The unmanned aerial vehicle 150 may be configured or adapted to collect one or more sample containers 140 from the enclosure 101, or if present outside the enclosure 101, to collect one or more sample containers 140 from the one or more devices 103 for generating power or electricity. The one or more sample containers 140 may be disposed within or on the unmanned aerial vehicle 150. For example, the one or more sample containers 140 may be disposed within a cargo area 155 of the unmanned aerial vehicle 150, and an automated hatch and / or clamping mechanism may close and / or grip at least a portion of each sample container 140 within the cargo area 155 to secure the one or more sample containers 140 for flight. The unmanned aerial vehicle 150 may be configured or adapted to travel to a location within or near the enclosure 101 or the one or more devices 103 for generating power or electricity to collect one or more sample containers 140. For example, the vehicle controller 153 may include command and control capabilities to send and receive signals to and from components in the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 to transport the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 from one location to another.

[0031] The body 151 can be configured so that the UAV 150 can land on the UAV station 154, or as described below, hang from a structure within the UAV station 154. The rotors 156 can be coupled to the body and can be configured and adapted to provide lift and also propel the UAV 150.

[0032] The aircraft controller 153, the device controller 180 and the sample controller 170 can each include a single microprocessor or multiple microprocessors for sending signals to the components of the enclosure 101 including the fluid sampling and transport system 104, and receiving signals from the components of the enclosure 101 including the fluid sampling and transport system 104. The aircraft controller 153, the device controller 180 and the sample controller 170 can each include appropriate hardware and software to perform their specified functions. The aircraft controller 153, the device controller 180 and the sample controller 170 can each be pre-programmed and / or reprogrammed to perform new, different and / or enhanced functions. Although shown as separate controllers, the functions of the aircraft controller 153, the device controller 180 and / or the sample controller 170 can be combined into a single controller. Many commercially available microprocessors can be configured to perform the functions of the aircraft controller 153, the device controller 180 and / or the sample controller 170.

[0033] The one or more sample sensors 172 may be or include one or more spectral sensors, fluid property sensors, mass flow sensors, volume flow sensors, ultrasonic sensors, inductive sensors, light scattering / extinction sensors, viscosity sensors, conductivity sensors, impedance sensors, elemental analysis sensors, magnetic sensors, resonance sensors or any other suitable sensors, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the one or more sample sensors 172 may measure one or more fluid sample parameters. For example, the one or more sample sensors 172 may measure the content, authenticity, viscosity, dielectric constant, particle count, pH value, infrared spectrum, base value, acid value, conductivity, resistivity, impedance, permittivity, particle size distribution, water content, oxidation level, nitration level, smoke content, ferrous particle content or combinations thereof of one or more elements of a fluid sample. In some examples, the one or more sample sensors 172 may measure iron content, copper content, potassium content, lead content, aluminum content, nickel content, phosphorus content, zinc content, sulfur content, silicon content or combinations thereof. By comparing the spectral analysis of a fluid sample with the spectral analysis of an original or reference fluid, the authenticity of the fluid sample may be measured. In some instances, the original fluid may be doped with a composition that cannot exist otherwise and is difficult to reproduce, thereby allowing spectroscopic analysis of the fluid sample to determine whether the fluid sample is authentic. In some examples, the one or more sample sensors 172 may utilize techniques such as, but not limited to, infrared (IR) spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence ("XRF") spectroscopy, laser induced plasma spectroscopy ("LIPS"), inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy ("ICP"), radio frequency spectroscopy, rotating disk electrode atomic emission ("RDE") spectroscopy, and flow viscometer (e.g., Hele Shaw flow viscometer), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, gas chromatography, gas chromatography / mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography, including high performance liquid chromatography, supercritical fluid chromatography, liquid chromatography / mass spectrometry, impedance spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance, or any other suitable technique, or a combination thereof, to evaluate the chemical, electrical, and physical properties of the fluid sample.

[0034] The one or more sample sensors 172 may be disposed between the sample conduit 132 and the sample container 140, as shown, may be disposed within the sample conduit 132, may be disposed within the sample container 140, or may be disposed anywhere where the one or more sample sensors 172 may be exposed to at least a portion of the fluid sample. For example, in operation, the retention and loading mechanism 175 may be constructed or adapted to place the one or more sample sensors 172 below the lubricating fluid discharge location of the valve 130 or the sample conduit 132 for a period of time. At specific time intervals or upon user command, a portion of the fluid sample from the device 103 for generating power or electricity may be directed to the one or more sample sensors 172, over the one or more sample sensors 172, or through the one or more sample sensors 172, and the one or more sample sensors 172 may perform an analysis of the fluid sample. The one or more sample sensors 172 may send data associated with the analysis to the sample controller 170. The sample controller 170 may determine from the received data whether at least one fluid sample parameter is outside of a predetermined value or range of values ​​that may be stored in a lookup table stored within or available to the sample controller 170. If at least one fluid sample parameter is outside of the value or range or values, the sample controller 170 may send a signal to the fluid sampling and transport system 104 to obtain a fluid sample from the one or more devices 103 for generating power or electricity and command the fluid sample to be transported to another location, such as to a laboratory or remote location, for additional analysis and / or testing.

[0035] Still reference Figure 1In operation, the device controller 180 can send and receive signals to the generator 112, the lubricating fluid pump 165, or to any device 103 for generating power or electricity within the enclosure 101 to monitor and control one or more operating parameters of the generator 112, the lubricating fluid pump 165, or any device 103 for generating power or electricity. The sample controller 170 can send and receive signals to and from the valve 130, the retaining and loading mechanism 175, and the one or more sample sensors 172 described above for control and monitoring. The sample controller 170 and the device controller 180 can be communicatively coupled. For example, the sample controller 170 and the device controller 180 can send signals to and receive signals from each other, so that the sample controller 170 can control and monitor one or more devices 103 for generating power or electricity and the fluid sampling and transportation system 104 to send signals to obtain fluid samples from one or more devices 103 for generating power or electricity and send the fluid samples to another location, such as a laboratory or a remote location, for analysis and / or testing.

[0036] The device controller 180 may send the device operating parameters to the sample controller 170. The sample controller 170 may determine whether at least one of the received device operating parameters is outside of a predetermined value or range of values ​​that may be stored in a lookup table stored within or available to the sample controller 170. If at least one of the received device operating parameters is outside of a value or range or values, the sample controller 170 may send a signal to the fluid sampling and transport system 104 to take a fluid sample from one or more of the devices for generating power or electricity 103 and send the fluid sample to another location, such as to a laboratory or remote location, for analysis and / or testing.

[0037] If at least one of the received device operating parameters is outside of a value or range or multiple values, the sample controller 170 may send a signal to the device controller 180 to modify and maintain at least one operating parameter of the device 103 for generating power or electricity at, below, or above a predetermined value or range of values. For example, the brake 113 may be used to reduce the rotational speed of the rotatable shaft 114 to slow down the operation of the generator 112, thereby reducing the stress level on the generator 112 when analyzing and / or testing the fluid sample. In other examples, the pitch angle and / or yaw angle of the rotor 102 blades 118 may be adjusted to reduce the rotational speed of the rotatable shaft 114 to slow down the operation of the generator 112, thereby reducing the stress level on the generator 112 when analyzing and / or testing the fluid sample. In other examples, the flow rate of the lubricating fluid 122 through the fluid path 120 may be increased to increase the heat transferred away from the generator 112, thereby reducing the stress level on the generator 112 when analyzing and / or testing the fluid sample. By operating the generator 112 at a predetermined value or range of values, the device 103 for generating power or electricity may be protected from damage that may occur if the generator 112 continues to operate normally.

[0038] The sample controller 170 may be communicatively coupled to the aircraft controller 153 to send and receive data and / or commands to the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 or otherwise control the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 to be transported to one or more locations, such as an unmanned aerial vehicle station 154 or other locations. The sample controller 170 and the aircraft controller 153 may be communicatively coupled to other locations, such as a control center, for sending and receiving data and receiving command and control signals. The control center may command or otherwise control the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 to travel to one or more locations, such as an unmanned aerial vehicle station 154 or other locations. Before sending the fluid sample to another location, the sample controller 170 may send a signal to the one or more sample sensors 172 described above to analyze a portion of the fluid sample and generate sensor data associated with at least one physical property of the fluid sample. The one or more sample sensors 172 may send sensor data to the sample controller 170, and the sample controller 170 may receive the sensor data and compare the sensor data with data stored in a lookup table, wherein the lookup table is stored in the sample controller 170 or may be used for the sample controller 170. Based on the comparison, the sample controller 170 may send a signal to the aircraft controller 153 to transport the fluid sample to another location for further fluid sample analysis and / or testing. For example, determining the need for further fluid sample analysis and / or testing may include comparing the received sensor data to at least one predetermined sensor data parameter threshold from a lookup table. If the sensor data is outside the threshold, the sample controller 170 may send a signal to the aircraft controller 153 to transport the fluid sample to another location, such as for further analysis and / or testing.

[0039] The device controller 180, the sample controller 170, and the aircraft controller 153 may communicate using one or more communication standards or buses. For example, the device controller 180, the sample controller 170, and the aircraft controller 153 may send and receive signals using communication standards such as Ethernet, Industrial Ethernet, Profibus, Modbus, Foundation fieldbus, or any suitable standard. Communications may be sent using radio frequency signals, through hard wires, or a combination thereof. The device controller 180, the sample controller 170, and the aircraft controller 153 may additionally include other components and may also perform other functions not described herein.

[0040] In order to transport the fluid sample, one or more UAVs 150 may be flown to the at least one UAV station 154, or stationed on or above the at least one UAV station 154. For example, the one or more UAVs 150 may be located elsewhere and may be commanded to travel to the one or more UAV stations 154. The lubrication fluid pump 165 may be controlled by the device controller 180 to flow the lubrication fluid through the fluid path 120 to the valve 130. For example, the lubrication fluid pump 165 may pressurize the lubrication fluid 122 in the fluid path 120 to flow the lubrication fluid 122 through the device conduit 124 to the valve 130.

[0041] The sample controller 170 can send a signal to open the valve 130 to allow fluid communication between the device conduit 124 and the outlet of the valve 130, which can be in fluid communication with the sample container 140. Thus, the lubricating fluid 122 in the fluid path 120 can flow into the sample container 140. The outlet of the valve 130 can be in fluid communication with the sample conduit 132. The lubricating fluid 122 can flow through the valve 130, through the sample conduit 132, and into the sample container 140. The sample controller 170 can send a signal to open and close the valve 130 for a period of time, so that during the period when the valve is open, a known or predetermined amount of lubricating fluid 122 can flow through the valve 130. The fluid sample can be taken from any location along the fluid path 120. For example, the fluid sample can be taken before and / or after the reservoir 160 (as shown), and / or before and / or after the filter 167, or anywhere along the fluid path 120. In an example, one or more fluid samples may be sequentially taken from two or more locations along fluid path 120 and flowed into one or more sample containers 140 for transport by one or more unmanned aerial vehicles 150 .

[0042] The sample container 140 can be disposed near or adjacent to the device 103 for generating power or electricity, where the lubricating fluid sample 122 can be obtained from the device 103. The unmanned aerial vehicle 150 can be dispatched to transport one or more empty sample containers 140 to and from the fluid sampling and transportation system 104. The retention and loading mechanism 175 can be commanded to place the one or more empty sample containers 140 near or adjacent to the device 103 for generating power or electricity, where the fluid sample can be obtained from the device. After the fluid sample is provided to the sample container 140, the retention and loading mechanism 175 can be commanded to release the sample container 140 so that the sample container 140 can be airlifted to another location and / or moved, and the sample container 140 can be loaded, removably placed or otherwise attached to a portion of the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 for transportation to another location, such as to a laboratory or remote location, for analysis and / or testing. After the sample container 140 is released and / or disposed on the unmanned aerial vehicle 150, the sample controller 170 or the aircraft controller 153 may, for example, send one or more signals to the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 to command or otherwise provide commands to the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 so that the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 transports the fluid sample. Based on the results of the tests performed on the one or more fluid samples, a repair or maintenance plan may be created for the device 103 for generating power or electricity, and if necessary, a repair team may be dispatched to perform the appropriate maintenance or repair actions using the appropriate equipment and spare parts, thereby saving potentially significant equipment downtime.

[0043] Although depicted as having a fluid path 120 and a device for generating power or electricity 103, the system 100 may include two or more fluid paths and two or more devices for generating power or electricity. Fluid samples from each of the two or more fluid paths of each of the two or more devices for generating power or electricity may be routed to a retention and loading mechanism 175 and placed into one or more sample containers 140 for transport, analysis, and / or testing.

[0044] Figure 2A schematic diagram of an exemplary filling head mechanism 204 for discharging a fluid sample into a sample container 140 according to one or more embodiments is depicted. The filling head mechanism 204 can be used to discharge the lubricating fluid 122 within the device conduit 124 into the sample container 140. The filling head mechanism 204 can be in fluid communication with the valve 130 and the device conduit 124, and can be configured and adapted to discharge the lubricating fluid 122 within the device conduit 124 into the sample container 140. For example, the filling head mechanism 204 can include a piercing head or nozzle 210, an inner cylinder 215, and an outer cylinder 220. The piercing head 210, the inner cylinder 215, and the outer cylinder 220 can each include passages therethrough, which can be in fluid communication with each other and with the valve 130.

[0045] The fill head mechanism arm 225 can support, move and position the fill head mechanism 204 to provide the fluid sample into the sample container 140. The fill head mechanism arm 225 can include a motor and an actuator to facilitate its movement, and can be controlled by the sample controller 170. The fill head mechanism arm 225 can include a valve 130. The valve 130 can be configured or adapted to open and close with the movement of the fill head mechanism arm 225 and / or the fill head mechanism 204. For example, when operated by receiving a signal from the sample controller 170, the fill head mechanism arm 225 can position the fill head mechanism 204 above the lid 207, wherein the lid 207 can be sealingly disposed around the hole 141 of the sample container 140, thereby sealing the internal volume of the sample container 140 from the environment outside the sample container 140. The fill head mechanism arm 225 can pierce the lid 207 with the piercing head 210 by pressing the piercing head 210 into the lid 207 with sufficient force to create an opening through the lid 207, wherein the piercing head 210 can enter the interior volume of the sample container 140 through the opening. After piercing the lid 207, the fill head mechanism arm 225 can continue to press the fill head mechanism 204 toward the sample container 140 so that the inner cylinder 215 can move within the outer cylinder 220. The inner cylinder 215 can be in mechanical communication with the valve 130 so that the movement of the inner cylinder 215 within the outer cylinder 220 can cause the valve 130 to open and allow a portion of the lubrication fluid 122 within the device conduit 124 to be discharged into the sample container 140.

[0046] The sample controller 170 can send a signal to the fill head mechanism arm 225 to lift the fill head mechanism 204 and remove the piercing head 210 from the lid 207. When the fill head mechanism arm 225 lifts the fill head mechanism 204, the inner cylinder 215 can extend from the outer cylinder 220, and this movement can cause the valve 130 to close, thereby stopping the flow of the lubricating fluid 122. The opening in the lid 207 can be self-sealing so that the fluid sample can be retained within the sample container 140. For clarity, the fill head mechanism can be any mechanism capable of discharging a fluid sample into the sample container 140. Before, during, or after discharging at least a portion of the fluid sample into the sample container 140, one or more sample sensors 172 can perform one or more analyses on the lubricating fluid 122, and the sensor data can be sent to the sample controller 170 via hardwire or radio frequency communication. After discharging the fluid sample into the sample container 140, the retention and loading mechanism 175 can place the sample container 140 on the unmanned aerial vehicle 150. Unmanned aerial vehicle 150 may transport sample container 140 to another location, such as to a laboratory or remote location, for analysis and / or testing.

[0047] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an illustrative retention and loading mechanism 175 for positioning and moving one or more sample containers 140 according to one or more embodiments is depicted. The retention and loading mechanism 175 may include a cylinder 176, a piston 177, and a head 179, one or more sample container stations 305 (seven are shown), and one or more guides 320 (two are shown). The retention and loading mechanism 175 may include additional actuators for positioning and moving the one or more sample containers 140. The retention and loading mechanism 175 may include or may be one or more robotic arms and / or clamping mechanisms, which may be combined with the cylinder 176, piston 177, and head 179, or may replace the cylinder 176, piston 177, and head 179.

[0048] Each sample container station 305 can receive, hold and / or move one or more sample containers 140 (one sample container is shown in each station). For example, each sample container station 305 can include a conveyor system for moving the one or more sample containers 140 around and / or between the sample container stations 305. One or more multi-axis or omni-directional conveyor rollers can be provided in each sample container station 305 to move the one or more sample containers 140 around and / or between each sample container station 305. Each sample container station 305 can also include a securing mechanism, such as a clamp that can grasp at least a portion of each sample container 140, or a protrusion that is configured and adapted to surround at least a portion of each sample container 140 to secure the one or more sample containers 140 within each sample container station 305. Each sample container station 305 can move the one or more sample containers into fluid communication with the valve 130 or the filling head mechanism 204. As described above, the one or more sample containers 140 can receive one or more fluid samples from the filling head mechanism 204. Each sample container 140 can be moved onto the UAV 150, for example, by a conveyor roller, a robotic arm, or by a cylinder 176, a piston 177, and a head 179. The cylinder 176, the piston 177, and the head 179 can move along the one or more guides 320 described above to change position so that each of the one or more sample containers 140 can be moved onto the one or more UAVs by the cylinder 176, the piston 177, and the head 179. Although shown in a linear configuration, the container station 305 can be arranged in a carousel, in an arc shape, or have any shape or configuration.

[0049] The valve 130 can be configured and adapted to recirculate the lubricating fluid 122 within the device conduit 124 when a fluid sample is not being taken. When a fluid sample is needed, the valve can be configured and adapted to place the sample container 140, the sample conduit 132, and the device conduit 124 in fluid communication, and then reconfigure the valve 130 to recirculate the lubricating fluid 122 within the device conduit 124. The valve 130 can be configured and adapted to flush the fill head mechanism 204 and the sample conduit 132 before and / or after taking a fluid sample. For example, the valve 130 can be configured and adapted to extract fluid from the fill head mechanism 204 and the sample conduit 132 and recirculate the fluid through the device conduit 124, such as back to the flow path 120 and / or into the reservoir 160. In other examples, the valve 130 can be configured and adapted to discharge the fluid within the fill head mechanism 204 and the sample conduit 132 into a waste oil container or reservoir in order to flush the sample conduit 132 and the fill head mechanism 204. The waste oil container may be located within one of the sample container stations 305. The waste oil container may be in fluid communication with the device conduit 124 and / or the fluid pathway 120 for circulating any fluid within the waste oil container back to the fluid pathway 120.

[0050] Each sample container station 305 may include one or more accelerometers, one or more load cells, one or more proximity sensors, one or more volumetric flow meters, and / or one or more time-of-flight sensors to detect changes in mass of one or more sample containers 140 within the boundaries of a given sample container station 305. In operation, the one or more accelerometers, the one or more load cells, the one or more proximity sensors, the one or more volumetric flow meters, and / or the one or more time-of-flight sensors may be used to determine the amount of fluid within a given sample container 140 and may send a signal to the sample controller 170. Based on the signals received from the one or more accelerometers, the one or more load cells, the one or more proximity sensors, the one or more volumetric flow meters, and / or the one or more time-of-flight sensors, the sample controller 170 may send a signal to prevent fluid from flowing into the given sample container 140 and command the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 to transport the given sample container 140 to another location.

[0051] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of another exemplary system for collecting and transporting a fluid sample 400 according to one or more embodiments is depicted. The system for collecting and transporting a fluid sample 400 may include an unmanned aerial vehicle 450. The unmanned aerial vehicle 450 may be sealingly disposed on the sample container 140. For example, the unmanned aerial vehicle 450 may seal the hole 141 in the sample container 140 and serve as a lid for the sample container 140, for example, with reference to Figure 2The lid 207 of the sample container 140 can be released by the unmanned aerial vehicle 450 into the sample container 140. For example, the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 can be releasably docked above the unmanned aerial vehicle station 154, on the retention and loading mechanism 175. The unmanned aerial vehicle 450 can include a hole through which the lubricating fluid 122 can flow between the valve 130 and the sample container 140. The hole may include a mechanical iris that can be opened and closed to unseal and seal the sample container 140. After receiving the fluid sample, the retention and loading mechanism 175 can release the unmanned aerial vehicle 450, which can transport the fluid sample to another location, for example, to a laboratory or remote location, for analysis and / or testing. The unmanned aerial vehicle 450 that is sealed on the sample container 140 can be very small compared to a typical cargo carrying unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0052] One or more sample sensors 172 may be disposed on the unmanned aerial vehicle 172 or within the sample container 140, or within the fluid line itself elsewhere in the system. The one or more sample sensors 172 may contact a portion of the fluid sample before, during, or after the lubricating fluid 122 is discharged into the sample container 140. Before or after release from the retention and loading mechanism 175, the aircraft controller 153 may send a signal to the one or more sample sensors 172 via a hardwire or radio frequency communication interface 410 to cause the one or more sample sensors 172 to perform one or more analyses and / or tests on the fluid sample. Sensor data from the one or more analyses and / or tests may be sent to the aircraft controller 153 and / or the sample controller 170 via a hardwire or radio frequency communication interface 410. As described above, the sensor data may support decisions regarding additional fluid sampling analyses and / or tests, operating parameters of the device 103 for generating power or electricity, and / or maintenance planning and execution of the device 103 for generating power or electricity.

[0053] Figure 5A schematic diagram of yet another illustrative system for collecting and transporting a fluid sample 500 according to one or more embodiments is depicted. The system for collecting and transporting a fluid sample 500 may include one or more unmanned aerial vehicles 150 (only one is shown) stationed or located at a first unmanned aerial vehicle station 154 (as shown), a second unmanned aerial vehicle station 554, or another location. The system 500 may also include a device 103 for generating power or electricity within the enclosure 101 as a first device 103 for generating power or electricity, a second device 501 for generating power or electricity, and first and second retention and loading mechanisms 175. The first device 103 for generating power or electricity may include a lubricating fluid 122 as a first lubricating fluid 122, a filter 167 as a first filter 167, and a fluid path 120 as a first fluid path 120. The first device 103 for generating power or electricity may be in fluid communication with two or more valves 130 (e.g., a first valve and a second valve). The first and second valves 130 may be configured or adapted to provide a fluid sample from one or more locations (three are shown) along the fluid path 120 .

[0054] The second device 501 for generating power or electricity may include a gearbox 505 having a shaft 514 that is operated to generate power for use by the generator 105. For example, the shaft 514 may be coupled to the rotor 102 at one end and to the gearbox 505 at the other end, which may be coupled to the rotatable shaft 114 for transferring rotational energy from the rotor 102 to the generator 105. The gearbox 505, the shaft 514, and the rotatable shaft 114 may be in fluid communication with a second lubrication fluid 522 in a second fluid path 520. The second fluid path 520 may include the gearbox 505, the second filter 167, the reservoir 560, and the second valve 130 in fluid communication with the gearbox lubrication fluid conduit 524. The second lubrication fluid 522 may provide lubrication to one or more movable parts within the gearbox 505, the shaft 514, and the movable shaft 114. The fluid within the second fluid path 520 may be pressurized to cause the second lubrication fluid 522 to flow through at least a portion of the second fluid path 520. For example, when moving, the one or more movable parts and shafts 514, 114 within the gearbox 505 may pressurize the second lubrication fluid 522 to cause the second lubrication fluid 522 to flow through at least a portion of the second fluid path 520. In other examples, a separate pump and / or the pump 165 may pressurize the second lubrication fluid 522 within the second fluid path 520 to cause the second lubrication fluid 522 to flow through at least a portion of the second fluid path 520.

[0055] During the fluid sampling operation, fluid samples can be taken from the first device 103 for generating power or electricity and the second device 501 for generating power or electricity. For example, the first fluid sample can be discharged from the first device 103 for generating power or electricity into the first sample container 140. The second fluid sample can be discharged from the second device 501 for generating power or electricity into the second sample container 140. The first sample container 140 can be set on the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 by the first retention and loading mechanism 175. The unmanned aerial vehicle 150 can transport the first sample container 140 from the first unmanned aerial vehicle station 154 to the second unmanned aerial vehicle station 554, and the second sample container 140 can be set on the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 by the second retention and loading mechanism 175. Subsequently, the unmanned aerial vehicle can transport the first sample container 140 and the second sample container 140 to another location, such as to a laboratory or a remote location, for analysis and / or testing. In other examples, the first fluid sample and the second fluid sample can be routed to the first or second retention and loading mechanism 175.

[0056] The method for collecting and transporting a fluid sample may include opening a valve 130 to discharge a sample of the lubricating fluid 122 and / or the lubricating fluid 522 from the fluid path 120 and / or the fluid path 520 of the device 103 for generating power or electricity into a sample container 140. The device 103 for generating power or electricity may include a rotatable shaft 114, one or more other moving parts 110, and a fluid path 120 and / or the fluid path 520 containing the lubricating fluid 122 and / or the lubricating fluid 522, wherein the rotatable shaft 114, the one or more other moving parts 110, or both may be in fluid communication with the lubricating fluid 122 and / or the lubricating fluid 522 in the fluid path 120 and / or the fluid path 520. The lubricating fluid 122 and / or the lubricating fluid 522 may be pressurized within the fluid path 120 and / or the fluid path 520 by the device 103 for generating power or electricity. The fluid path 120 and / or the fluid path 520 may be contained within the device 103 for generating power or electricity. The valve 130 can be in fluid communication with the fluid path 120 and / or the fluid path 520, and can be opened to start the flow of a fluid sample or discharge the fluid sample into the sample container 140. The sample container 140 can be located outside the device 103 for generating power or electricity and in fluid communication with the valve 130. The retention and loading mechanism 175 can be adjacent to the device, near the device, and / or disposed on the unmanned aerial vehicle 150, and can be configured to dispose, removably place, or attach a sample container to a portion of the unmanned aerial vehicle 150. At least one unmanned aerial vehicle station 154 can be disposed on or around the device 103 for generating power or electricity, wherein the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station 154 can be configured or adapted to dock or receive the unmanned aerial vehicle 150. The unmanned aerial vehicle 150 can accommodate the sample container 140. The unmanned aerial vehicle 150 may be dispatched or commanded to transport the sample container to another location, for example, to a second unmanned aerial vehicle station 154 disposed on or around the device 103 for generating power or electricity, to another unmanned aerial vehicle station 154 disposed on or around the device 103 for generating power or electricity, or to another location. The method may also include discharging a first fluid sample from a first location into a first internal volume within the sample container 140 along the fluid path 120 and / or the fluid path 520 to provide the first fluid sample within the sample container 140, and / or discharging a second fluid sample from a second location into a second internal volume within the sample container 140 along the fluid path 120 and / or the fluid path 520 to provide the second fluid sample within the sample container 140. The method may also include piercing a surface of the sample container 140 with the fill head mechanism 204, wherein the fill head mechanism 204 may be in fluid communication with the valve 130 and, after piercing, in fluid communication with the internal volume of the sample container 140.The method may also include: opening valve 130 to discharge a sample of lubricating fluid 122 and / or lubricating fluid 522 in fluid path 120 and / or fluid path 520 into sample container 140, wherein a portion of an outer surface of the sample container may include a visual identification mark. The visual identification mark may be printed, affixed, or otherwise disposed on an outer surface of sample container 140.

[0057] The method may also include introducing at least a portion of the fluid sample to one or more sample sensors 172 to analyze at least one physical property of the fluid sample, generating sensor data related to the at least one physical property; sending the sensor data to the sample controller 170, wherein the sample controller 170 receives the sensor data and compares the sensor data to data in a lookup table; and determining the need for further lubricating fluid analysis and / or testing by comparing the received sensor data to at least one predetermined sensor data parameter threshold from the lookup table. The method may also include sending a signal from the sample controller 170 to the device controller 180 to modify and maintain at least one operating parameter of the device 103 for generating power or electricity at, below, or above a predetermined value or value range, wherein the predetermined value or value range is taken from the lookup table. The method may also include releasing the sample container 140 from the unmanned aerial vehicle station 154 via the retaining and loading mechanism 175; and commanding the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 to transport the fluid sample to another location separate from the device.

[0058] Figure 6 Depicted is a schematic diagram of an exemplary wind turbine farm 600 including an exemplary fluid sampling and transport system 104 in accordance with one or more embodiments. Figure 7 Depicted is a diagram of a method according to one or more embodiments Figure 6 FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary wind turbine farm 600 including another embodiment of the exemplary sampling and transport system 104. Figure 6 and Figure 7, each enclosure 101 may include a fluid sampling and transport system 104 for sampling the lubricating fluid and transporting the lubricating fluid to and from one or more locations. Each fluid sampling and transport system 104 may include one or more sample containers 140 and / or one or more unmanned aerial vehicles 150, 450 for transporting one or more sample containers 140 to each enclosure 101 and other locations, and transporting from each enclosure 101 and other locations. For example, two or more enclosures 101 may be grouped geographically (four are shown). One or more unmanned aerial vehicles 150, 450 may be stationed or located in a geographic area, such as in the two or more enclosures 101 and / or at a location 615, which may be a central location in a wind turbine farm 600. As needed, one or more sample containers 140 may be provided in each fluid sampling and transport system 104. Central dispatch 601 may be linked to fluid sampling and transport systems 104, one or more unmanned aerial vehicles 150, and / or one or more unmanned aerial vehicles 450 in communication. Central dispatch 601 can send signals 605 to and receive signals 605 from the fluid sampling and transport system 104, one or more unmanned aerial vehicles 150 and / or one or more unmanned aerial vehicles 450 to command and control the discharge and transportation of fluid samples from one or more devices 103 for generating power or electricity within each enclosure 101, as described above.

[0059] In an example, the one or more unmanned aerial vehicles 150 described above may be configured or adapted to transport one or more unmanned aerial vehicles 450. As described above, the one or more unmanned aerial vehicles 450 may be sealedly disposed on the sample container 140. When filled with a fluid sample, each unmanned aerial vehicle 450 may be disposed within one of the unmanned aerial vehicles 150. For example, each unmanned aerial vehicle 450 may travel to one of the unmanned aerial vehicles 150, land in one of the unmanned aerial vehicles 150, land on one of the unmanned aerial vehicles 150, and / or dock with one of the unmanned aerial vehicles 150. In other examples, one or more unmanned aerial vehicles 450 may be moved to one of the unmanned aerial vehicles 150 by the retention and loading mechanism 175, and the unmanned aerial vehicle 150 may be disposed on the unmanned aerial vehicle station 154. The retention and loading mechanism 175 may removably place or attach one or more unmanned aerial vehicles 450 to one of the unmanned aerial vehicles 150. The unmanned aerial vehicle 150 may transport all of the one or more unmanned aerial vehicles 450 docked thereto or otherwise disposed thereon to another location, such as a testing laboratory located outside of the geographic area of ​​the wind turbine farm.

[0060] The flight range of the one or more UAVs 450, each sealed on the sample container 140, may be different from the flight range of the one or more UAVs 150. For example, the one or more UAVs 450, each sealed on the sample container 140, may have a flight range limited to flight within the wind turbine farm 600, while the flight range of the one or more UAVs 150 may be significantly greater, such that only the one or more UAVs 150 have a flight range sufficient for transportation to a location outside the wind turbine farm 600, such as transportation to a testing laboratory located outside the geographic area of ​​the wind turbine farm 600. Utilizing different UAVs 150, 450 may reduce the overall costs associated with lubrication fluid sampling and transportation.

[0061] In some examples, the unmanned aerial vehicle 450, which is sealingly disposed on the sample container 140, can be packaged into a smaller form factor than the unmanned aerial vehicle 150. A smaller unmanned aerial vehicle can fit into a smaller space. Utilizing a smaller unmanned aerial vehicle can allow access to portions of the enclosure 101 that are inaccessible to a larger unmanned aerial vehicle, providing greater flexibility to the user. A smaller unmanned aerial vehicle can also have a lower overall cost than a larger unmanned aerial vehicle. Utilizing a smaller unmanned aerial vehicle can also have a better range to weight ratio. A smaller unmanned aerial vehicle can also allow for a smaller conversion volume within the enclosure 101, thereby allowing for additional cost savings over one or more larger unmanned aerial vehicles.

[0062] The present disclosure also relates to any one or more of the following numbered embodiments:

[0063] 1. A system for collecting and transporting a fluid sample, comprising: at least one device for generating power or electricity, wherein the at least one device comprises a rotatable shaft, one or more other moving parts, and at least one fluid path containing a lubricating fluid, wherein the rotatable shaft, the one or more other moving parts, or both are in fluid communication with the lubricating fluid in the at least one fluid path; at least one sample container; at least one valve, the valve being in fluid communication with the at least one fluid path and in fluid communication with the at least one sample container, wherein the at least one valve is configured to open and discharge the lubricating fluid sample from the at least one fluid path to the at least one sample container; at least one unmanned aerial vehicle, the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle being configured to for transporting the at least one sample container to a location separate from the at least one device; at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station, which is arranged on or around the at least one device, and the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station is constructed to dock or receive the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle; and at least one retaining and loading mechanism, which is arranged on or adjacent to the at least one device, and the at least one retaining and loading mechanism is constructed to release the at least one sample container from the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station, or move the at least one sample container to or around the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station.

[0064] 2. A system according to paragraph 1, wherein the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle is disposed on the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station, and the retaining and loading mechanism is constructed to removably place or attach the at least one sample container to a portion of the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0065] 3. The system of paragraphs 1 or 2, wherein the at least one sample container comprises a first sample container and a second sample container, and wherein the unmanned aerial vehicle is configured to transport the first sample container and the second sample container to the location.

[0066] 4. A system according to any of paragraphs 1 to 3, wherein the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle includes a first unmanned aerial vehicle and a second unmanned aerial vehicle, wherein the first unmanned aerial vehicle is configured to dock with the second unmanned aerial vehicle, and the second unmanned aerial vehicle is configured to transport the first unmanned aerial vehicle to the location.

[0067] 5. A system according to any of paragraphs 1 to 4, wherein the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle includes a first unmanned aerial vehicle and a second unmanned aerial vehicle, and wherein the retention and loading mechanism is configured to move the second unmanned aerial vehicle onto the first unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0068] 6. The system according to any of paragraphs 1 to 5 further includes one or more sample container stations, wherein each sample container station is configured to fix the one or more sample containers and / or move the one or more sample containers to be connected to the at least one valve fluid.

[0069] 7. A system according to any of paragraphs 1 to 6, wherein: the at least one device for generating power or electricity includes a first device for generating power or electricity and a second device for generating power or electricity, the first device includes a first fluid path, the second device includes a second fluid path, the at least one valve includes a first valve and a second valve, the at least one sample container includes a first sample container located outside the first device and a second sample container located outside the second device, the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station includes a first unmanned aerial vehicle station and a second unmanned aerial vehicle station, wherein the first unmanned aerial vehicle station is set on the first device or around the first device, and the second unmanned aerial vehicle station is set on the second device or around the second device, the at least one retaining and loading mechanism includes a first retaining and loading mechanism and a second retaining and loading mechanism, wherein the first retaining and loading mechanism is set on the first device or adjacent to the first device, The second retaining and loading mechanism is arranged on the second device or arranged adjacent to the second device, the first valve is fluidly connected to the first fluid path and to the first sample container, wherein the first valve is configured to open and discharge the sample of the lubricating fluid from the first fluid path into the first sample container, the second valve is fluidly connected to the second fluid path and to the second sample container, wherein the second valve is configured to open and discharge the sample of the lubricating fluid from the second fluid path into the second sample container, the first retaining and loading mechanism is configured to move the first sample container to the first unmanned aerial vehicle station or to the vicinity of the first unmanned aerial vehicle station, the second retaining and loading mechanism is configured to move the second sample container to the second unmanned aerial vehicle station or to the vicinity of the second unmanned aerial vehicle station, and the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle is configured to transport the first sample container to the location.

[0070] 8. A system according to any of paragraphs 1 to 7, wherein the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle is disposed on the first unmanned aerial vehicle station, and wherein the first retaining and loading mechanism is configured to removably place or attach the first sample container to a portion of the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle disposed on the first unmanned aerial vehicle station.

[0071] 9. The system of any of paragraphs 1 to 8, wherein the at least one device further comprises a pump, wherein the pump is configured to pressurize the lubrication fluid within the at least one fluid path.

[0072] 10. A method for collecting and transporting a fluid sample, comprising: opening at least one valve to discharge at least one lubricating fluid sample in at least one fluid path into at least one sample container, wherein the at least one fluid path is located within a device, and wherein: the device is configured to generate power or electricity, the device includes a rotatable shaft, one or more other moving parts, wherein the rotatable shaft, the one or more other moving parts, or both are in fluid communication with the lubricating fluid in the at least one fluid path, and at least one sample container is located outside of the at least one device; at least one unmanned aerial vehicle is configured to transport the at least one sample container containing the at least one lubricating fluid sample to another location separate from the at least one device; at least one unmanned aerial vehicle is configured to transport the at least one sample container containing the at least one lubricating fluid sample to another location separate from the at least one device; An unmanned aerial vehicle station is arranged on or around the at least one device, wherein the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station is configured to dock or receive the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle; and at least one retaining and loading mechanism is arranged on or adjacent to the at least one device, wherein the at least one retaining and loading mechanism is configured to move the at least one sample container onto or around the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station; arrange the at least one sample container on the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle via the at least one retaining and loading mechanism; and transport the at least one lubricating fluid sample to a location separate from the device via the unmanned aerial vehicle.

[0073] 11. A method according to paragraph 10, wherein: the at least one valve is connected to the at least one fluid path fluid at a first position along the at least one fluid path and at a second position along the at least one fluid path, the at least one lubricating fluid sample includes a first lubricating fluid sample and a second lubricating fluid sample; the at least one sample container includes a first internal volume and a second internal volume, and the first lubricating fluid sample is discharged from the first position along the at least one fluid path and is discharged into the first internal volume, and the second lubricating fluid sample is discharged from the second position along the at least one fluid path and is discharged into the second internal volume.

[0074] 12. A method according to paragraphs 10 or 11, wherein: the at least one valve includes a first valve and a second valve, the first valve is connected to the at least one fluid path fluid at a first position along the at least one fluid path, the second valve is connected to the at least one fluid path fluid at a second position along the at least one fluid path, the at least one lubricating fluid sample includes a first lubricating fluid sample and a second lubricating fluid sample, the at least one sample container includes a first internal volume and a second internal volume, the first lubricating fluid sample is discharged from the first position along the at least one fluid path through the first valve and is discharged into the first internal volume, and the second lubricating fluid sample is discharged from the second position along the at least one fluid path through the second valve and is discharged into the second internal volume.

[0075] 13. The method of any of paragraphs 10 to 12, further comprising commanding the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle to transport at least one empty sample container to the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station.

[0076] 14. The method of any of paragraphs 10 to 13, further comprising providing metadata to an outer surface of the sample container.

[0077] 15. The method of any of paragraphs 10 to 14, further comprising associating metadata with the at least one sample container via an identification symbol, wherein an outer surface of the at least one sample container includes the identification symbol.

[0078] 16. The method according to any of paragraphs 10 to 15 further includes: introducing at least a portion of the lubrication fluid sample to a sample sensor to analyze at least one physical property of the lubrication fluid sample; generating sensor data related to the at least one physical property; sending the sensor data to a sample controller, wherein the sample controller receives the sensor data and compares the sensor data with data in a lookup table; and determining the need for further lubrication fluid testing by comparing the received sensor data with at least one predetermined sensor data parameter threshold from the lookup table.

[0079] 17. The method according to any one of paragraphs 10 to 16 further includes: receiving a signal by a sample controller from a device controller, the signal indicating that at least one operating parameter of the device for generating power or electricity is outside a predetermined value or value range; and sending one or more signals from the sample controller to open and close the at least one valve to discharge the at least one lubrication fluid sample in the at least one fluid path into the at least one sample container.

[0080] 18. The method of any of paragraphs 10 to 17, wherein the apparatus further comprises a pump, wherein the pump is configured to pressurize the lubrication fluid within the at least one fluid path.

[0081] 19. A method for collecting and transporting a fluid sample, comprising: piercing a surface of a sample container with a filling head mechanism, wherein the filling head mechanism is in fluid communication with a valve and, after piercing, is in fluid communication with an internal volume of the sample container; opening the valve to discharge a lubricating fluid sample in a fluid path into the sample container, wherein the fluid path is located within a device, and wherein: the device is constructed to generate power and electricity, the device includes a rotatable shaft and one or more other moving parts, wherein the rotatable shaft, the one or more other moving parts, or both are in fluid communication with the lubricating fluid in the fluid path, and the sample container is located outside the device; an unmanned aerial vehicle is constructed to transport the sample container containing the lubricating fluid sample to a location separate from the device, an unmanned aerial vehicle station is disposed on the device or around the device, wherein the The unmanned aerial vehicle station is constructed for docking or receiving at least one unmanned aerial vehicle, and a retaining and loading mechanism is disposed on or near the device, wherein the retaining and loading mechanism is constructed for moving the sample container to or around the unmanned aerial vehicle station; associating metadata with the sample container, wherein a portion of an outer surface of the sample container includes a visual identification symbol, the metadata including data identifying the device, the time and date of discharging the lubricating fluid sample into the sample container, and at least one operating parameter of the device when discharging the lubricating fluid sample; removably placing or attaching the sample container to a portion of the unmanned aerial vehicle disposed on the unmanned aerial vehicle station; and commanding the unmanned aerial vehicle to transport the lubricating fluid sample to the location.

[0082] 20. The method according to paragraph 19 also includes: introducing at least a portion of the lubricating fluid sample to a sample sensor to analyze at least one physical property of the fluid; generating sensor data related to the at least one physical property; sending the sensor data to a sample controller, wherein the sample controller receives the sensor data and compares the sensor data with data in a lookup table; and determining the need for further lubricating fluid sample testing by comparing the received sensor data with at least one predetermined sensor data parameter threshold from the lookup table.

[0083] 21. The method according to paragraph 19 or 20 also includes: sending a signal from the sample controller to the device controller to modify and maintain at least one operating parameter of the device at, below or above a predetermined value or value range, wherein the predetermined value or value range is taken from the lookup table.

[0084] 22. The method according to any of paragraphs 19 to 21 further includes: receiving a signal from a device controller indicating that at least one operating parameter of the device is outside a predetermined value or range of values; and sending one or more signals from the sample controller to open and close the valve to discharge the lubrication fluid sample in the fluid path into the sample container.

[0085] 23. The method of any of paragraphs 19 to 22, wherein the apparatus further comprises a pump, wherein the pump is configured to pressurize the lubrication fluid within the fluid path.

[0086] Certain embodiments and features are described using a set of numerical upper limits and a set of numerical lower limits. It should be understood that ranges include combinations of any two values, for example, unless otherwise indicated, combinations of any lower value with any higher value, combinations of any two lower values, and / or combinations of any two higher values ​​are contemplated. Certain lower limits, upper limits, and ranges appear in one or more of the appended claims. All numerical values ​​are "about" or "approximately" indicated values, and take into account experimental errors and variations expected by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0087] Various terms have been defined above. To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined above, it should be given the broadest definition given to that term by persons in the relevant art as reflected in at least one printed publication or issued patent. In addition, all patents, test procedures, and other documents cited in this application are fully incorporated by reference into this application to the extent that their disclosures are not inconsistent with this application and for all jurisdictions where such incorporation is permitted.

[0088] While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, the scope of which is determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system for collecting and transporting a fluid sample, comprising: At least one apparatus for generating power or electricity, wherein the at least one apparatus comprises a rotatable shaft, one or more other moving parts, and at least one fluid path containing a lubricating fluid, wherein the rotatable shaft, the one or more other moving parts, or both are in fluid communication with the lubricating fluid in the at least one fluid path; at least one sample container; at least one valve in fluid communication with the at least one fluid path and in fluid communication with the at least one sample container, wherein the at least one valve is configured to open and discharge a sample of the lubricating fluid from the at least one fluid path to the at least one sample container; at least one unmanned aerial vehicle, the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle being configured to transport the at least one sample container to a location separate from the at least one device; at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station, the unmanned aerial vehicle station being disposed on or around the at least one device, the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station being configured to dock or receive the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle; and at least one retaining and loading mechanism, which is arranged on or adjacent to the at least one device, and is configured to release the at least one sample container from the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station or move the at least one sample container to or around the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one unmanned aerial vehicle is disposed on the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station, and the retention and loading mechanism is configured to removably place or attach the at least one sample container on a portion of the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle.

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The at least one sample container includes a first sample container and a second sample container, and wherein the unmanned aerial vehicle is configured to transport the first sample container and the second sample container to the location.

4. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: The at least one unmanned aerial vehicle includes a first unmanned aerial vehicle and a second unmanned aerial vehicle, and wherein the first unmanned aerial vehicle is configured to dock with the second unmanned aerial vehicle, and the second unmanned aerial vehicle is configured to transport the first unmanned aerial vehicle to the location.

5. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: The at least one unmanned aerial vehicle includes a first unmanned aerial vehicle and a second unmanned aerial vehicle, and wherein the retention and loading mechanism is configured to move the second unmanned aerial vehicle onto the first unmanned aerial vehicle.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, further comprising one or more sample container stations, wherein: Each sample container station is configured to secure the one or more sample containers and / or move the one or more sample containers into fluid communication with the at least one valve.

7. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: The at least one device for generating power or electricity comprises a first device for generating power or electricity and a second device for generating power or electricity, the first device comprises a first fluid path, the second device comprises a second fluid path, the at least one valve comprises a first valve and a second valve, the at least one sample container comprises a first sample container located outside the first device and a second sample container located outside the second device, the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station comprises a first unmanned aerial vehicle station and a second unmanned aerial vehicle station, wherein the first unmanned aerial vehicle station is arranged on the first device or around the first device, and the second unmanned aerial vehicle station is arranged on the second device or around the second device, the at least one retaining and loading mechanism comprises a first retaining and loading mechanism and a second retaining and loading mechanism, wherein the first retaining and loading mechanism is arranged on the first device or adjacent to the first device, and the second retaining and loading mechanism is arranged On the second device or arranged to be adjacent to the second device, the first valve is fluidly connected to the first fluid path and to the first sample container, wherein the first valve is configured to open and discharge the sample of the lubricating fluid from the first fluid path into the first sample container, the second valve is fluidly connected to the second fluid path and to the second sample container, wherein the second valve is configured to open and discharge the sample of the lubricating fluid from the second fluid path into the second sample container, the first retaining and loading mechanism is configured to move the first sample container to or around the first unmanned aerial vehicle station, the second retaining and loading mechanism is configured to move the second sample container to or around the second unmanned aerial vehicle station, and the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle is configured to transport the first sample container to the location.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein: The at least one unmanned aerial vehicle is disposed on the first unmanned aerial vehicle station, and wherein the first retention and loading mechanism is configured to removably place or attach the first sample container to a portion of the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle disposed on the first unmanned aerial vehicle station.

9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: The at least one apparatus further includes a pump, wherein the pump is configured to pressurize the lubrication fluid within the at least one fluid path.

10. A method for collecting and transporting a fluid sample, comprising: opening at least one valve to discharge at least one lubricating fluid sample in at least one fluid path into at least one sample container, wherein the at least one fluid path is located within a device, and wherein: the device is configured to generate power or electricity, the device includes a rotatable shaft, one or more other moving parts, wherein the rotatable shaft, the one or more other moving parts, or both are in fluid communication with the lubricating fluid in the at least one fluid path, and the at least one sample container is located outside of the at least one device; at least one unmanned aerial vehicle is configured to transport the at least one sample container containing the at least one lubricating fluid sample to another location separate from the at least one device; at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station is disposed between the at least one and the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station. at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station is configured to dock with or receive the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle; and at least one retaining and loading mechanism is disposed on the at least one device or disposed adjacent to the at least one device, wherein the at least one retaining and loading mechanism is configured to move the at least one sample container onto or around the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station; dispose the at least one sample container onto the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle via the at least one retaining and loading mechanism; and transport the at least one lubricating fluid sample to a location separate from the device via the unmanned aerial vehicle.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The at least one valve is fluidly connected to the at least one fluid path at a first position along the at least one fluid path and at a second position along the at least one fluid path, the at least one lubricating fluid sample includes a first lubricating fluid sample and a second lubricating fluid sample; the at least one sample container includes a first internal volume and a second internal volume, and the first lubricating fluid sample is discharged from the first position along the at least one fluid path and is discharged into the first internal volume, and the second lubricating fluid sample is discharged from the second position along the at least one fluid path and is discharged into the second internal volume.

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein: The at least one valve includes a first valve and a second valve, the first valve being in fluid communication with the at least one fluid path at a first position along the at least one fluid path, the second valve being in fluid communication with the at least one fluid path at a second position along the at least one fluid path, the at least one lubricating fluid sample including a first lubricating fluid sample and a second lubricating fluid sample, the at least one sample container including a first internal volume and a second internal volume, the first lubricating fluid sample being discharged from the first position along the at least one fluid path through the first valve and discharged into the first internal volume, the second lubricating fluid sample being discharged from the second position along the at least one fluid path through the second valve and discharged into the second internal volume.

13. The method of any one of claims 10 to 11, further comprising commanding the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle to transport at least one empty sample container to the at least one unmanned aerial vehicle station.

14. The method of any one of claims 10 to 11, further comprising providing metadata to an outer surface of the sample container.

15. The method of any one of claims 10 to 11, further comprising associating metadata with the at least one sample container via an identification symbol, wherein An outer surface of the at least one sample container includes identification indicia.

16. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 11, further comprising: introducing at least a portion of the lubricating fluid sample to a sample sensor to analyze at least one physical property of the lubricating fluid sample; generating sensor data related to the at least one physical property; sending the sensor data to a sample controller, wherein the sample controller receives the sensor data and compares the sensor data to data in a lookup table; and determining a need for further lubrication fluid testing by comparing the received sensor data to at least one predetermined sensor data parameter threshold from the lookup table.

17. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 11, further comprising: receiving, by the sample controller, a signal from an apparatus controller indicating that at least one operating parameter of the apparatus for generating power or electricity is outside a predetermined value or range of values; and sending one or more signals from the sample controller to open and close the at least one valve to discharge the at least one lubrication fluid sample in the at least one fluid path into the at least one sample container.

18. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 11, wherein: The apparatus also includes a pump, wherein the pump is configured to pressurize the lubrication fluid within the at least one fluid path.

19. A method for collecting and transporting a fluid sample, comprising: The method of claim 1 wherein the filling head mechanism is configured to pierce a surface of a sample container, wherein the filling head mechanism is in fluid communication with a valve and, after the piercing, is in fluid communication with an internal volume of the sample container; the valve is opened to discharge a lubricating fluid sample in a fluid path into the sample container, wherein the fluid path is within a device, and wherein: the device is configured to generate power and electricity, the device comprises a rotatable shaft and one or more other moving parts, wherein the rotatable shaft, the one or more other moving parts, or both, are in fluid communication with the lubricating fluid in the fluid path, and the sample container is located outside the device; an unmanned aerial vehicle is configured to transport a sample container containing the lubricating fluid sample to a location separate from the device, an unmanned aerial vehicle station is disposed on or around the device, wherein the unmanned aerial vehicle station is configured to The device is configured to dock or receive at least one unmanned aerial vehicle, and a retaining and loading mechanism is disposed on or near the device, wherein the retaining and loading mechanism is configured to move the sample container to or around the unmanned aerial vehicle station; associating metadata with the sample container, wherein a portion of an outer surface of the sample container includes a visual identification symbol, the metadata including data identifying the device, a time and date when the lubricating fluid sample was discharged into the sample container, and at least one operating parameter of the device when discharging the lubricating fluid sample; removably placing or attaching the sample container to a portion of the unmanned aerial vehicle disposed on the unmanned aerial vehicle station; and commanding the unmanned aerial vehicle to transport the lubricating fluid sample to the location.

20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising: introducing at least a portion of the lubricating fluid sample to a sample sensor to analyze at least one physical property of the fluid; generating sensor data related to the at least one physical property; sending the sensor data to a sample controller, wherein the sample controller receives the sensor data and compares the sensor data to data in a lookup table; and determining a need for further lubrication fluid sample testing by comparing the received sensor data to at least one predetermined sensor data parameter threshold from the lookup table.

21. The method according to claim 20, further comprising: A signal is sent from the sample controller to an apparatus controller to modify and maintain at least one operating parameter of the apparatus at, below or above a predetermined value or range of values, wherein the predetermined value or range of values ​​is taken from the look-up table.

22. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 21, further comprising: receiving a signal from a device controller indicating that at least one operating parameter of the device is outside a predetermined value or range of values; and sending one or more signals from the sample controller to open and close the valve to discharge the lubrication fluid sample in the fluid path into the sample container.

23. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein: The apparatus also includes a pump, wherein the pump is configured to pressurize the lubrication fluid within the fluid path.

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