Sensor network

Abstract

A sensor network system for determining a chimney maintenance plan comprises a sensor unit (16) arranged to be placed in or close to a chimney (6). The sensor unit comprises at least one sensor arranged to measure a parameter of the chimney (6) and to generate chimney health data associated with the chimney (6) using the measured parameter. The sensor unit comprises a transmission module arranged to transmit (20) the chimney health data to a remote analysis unit (18). The remote analysis unit (18) is arranged to receive chimney profile data associated with the chimney (6) and to estimate a chimney health level associated with the chimney (6) from the respective chimney health data and chimney profile data. The remote analysis unit (18) determines the chimney maintenance plan from the estimated chimney health level.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a sensor network, and more particularly to a networked sensor system for assessing the maintenance requirements of one or more chimneys. Background Technology

[0002] Many buildings, specifically residential buildings such as houses and apartments, have chimneys to exhaust gases and smoke produced by sources such as fireplaces, boilers, stoves, incinerators, or the like. Typically, a chimney is a generally vertical building structure inside or on the side of a building that expels gases and smoke through a flue that runs the length of the chimney from the exhaust source to the outside world. The chimney also provides an intake path to supply air for combustion within the source.

[0003] Like residential buildings, chimneys can also be installed on commercial and industrial buildings, where they may be subject to more "heavy" use. It is estimated that Norway has nearly 2 million chimneys, the Nordic region has over 7 million, and the whole of Europe has over 240 million.

[0004] Over time, pollutants and contaminants accumulate inside the chimney and around the flue. This unwanted buildup can create a fire hazard and may impair the chimney's proper function—to suppress or prevent gases from properly passing through the flue. Blocking airflow also increases the risk of harmful gases such as carbon monoxide escaping into the building.

[0005] For example, when wood is used as fuel in a combustion process, creosote can accumulate on the inner walls of a chimney (i.e., around the flue), reducing the cross-sectional area of ​​the flue and thus inhibiting flow. Furthermore, because these creosote deposits are flammable, there is a risk of fire caused by the deposits igniting.

[0006] Therefore, it is important to continuously clean and maintain each chimney to prevent the buildup of pollutants. Such maintenance may involve inspecting the chimney and cleaning its interior, sometimes referred to as chimney sweeping. Annual chimney cleaning and inspection are generally recommended, and some countries mandate regular inspections and cleaning of chimneys.

[0007] Such inspections and cleanings can be carried out by private chimney cleaners or by public organizations. In some countries, such as Norway, inspecting and cleaning chimneys is the responsibility of the fire department, and thus constitutes a public service.

[0008] However, the applicant has recognized that chimney usage varies considerably. Some people use their chimneys more extensively than others, while others may not use them at all. Similarly, the amount and type of fuel burned will significantly impact the buildup and type of materials within the flue. For example, wood may leave creosote more readily on the flue walls, while natural gas may burn more cleanly, leaving almost no residue. Furthermore, some people may burn fuel frequently, for example, as a primary means of home heating, while others may rely primarily on another heating system, such as central heating using a gas or electric boiler, and may only use the fireplace occasionally, for example, to create a warm or cozy atmosphere in their home.

[0009] However, regardless of its intended use, some material will typically accumulate over time simply due to the chimney's exposure to the external environment. For example, airborne particles and / or debris (such as tree leaves) may accumulate in the chimney over time, even if the chimney itself is not frequently used.

[0010] While regular maintenance programs, such as annual (or some other frequency) inspections and cleaning of the chimney, can be used, the applicant has recognized the advantage of using resources more efficiently by scheduling chimney maintenance only when necessary. Specifically, a chimney that is not frequently used and does not easily accumulate material may need to wait longer for maintenance, while another chimney that easily accumulates material may require more frequent regular maintenance. Summary of the Invention

[0011] From a first perspective, the present invention provides a sensor network system for determining a chimney maintenance plan, the sensor network comprising:

[0012] A sensor unit, arranged to be placed in or near the chimney, wherein the sensor unit includes at least one sensor arranged to measure parameters of the chimney and use the measured parameters to generate chimney health data associated with the chimney, the sensor unit further including a transmission module arranged to transmit the chimney health data; and

[0013] A remote analysis unit, comprising a receiving module configured to receive chimney health data and chimney profile data associated with the chimney;

[0014] The remote analysis unit is configured to estimate the chimney health level associated with the chimney based on the corresponding chimney health data and chimney profile data.

[0015] The remote analysis unit determines the chimney maintenance plan based on the estimated chimney health level.

[0016] A first aspect of the invention extends to a sensor unit arranged in or near a chimney, wherein the sensor unit comprises: at least one sensor arranged to measure parameters of the chimney and generate chimney health data associated with the chimney using the measured parameters; and a transmission module arranged to transmit the chimney health data to a remote analysis unit.

[0017] The first aspect of the invention also extends to a method for operating a sensor network system for determining a chimney maintenance plan, the sensor network comprising: a sensor unit including at least one sensor and a transmission module; and a remote analysis unit including a receiving module, the method comprising:

[0018] The parameters of the chimney are measured using the sensor.

[0019] The measured parameters are used to generate chimney health data associated with the chimney;

[0020] The chimney health data is transmitted using the transmission module.

[0021] The receiving module is used to receive the chimney health data.

[0022] Receive chimney profile data associated with the chimney;

[0023] Estimate the chimney health level associated with the chimney based on relevant chimney health data and chimney profile data; and

[0024] The chimney maintenance plan is determined based on the estimated chimney health level.

[0025] A first aspect of the invention further extends to a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform a method for operating a sensor network system for determining a chimney maintenance plan, the sensor network comprising: a sensor unit including at least one sensor and a transmission module; and a remote analysis unit including a receiving module, the method comprising:

[0026] The parameters of the chimney are measured using the sensor.

[0027] The measured parameters are used to generate chimney health data associated with the chimney;

[0028] The chimney health data is transmitted using the transmission module.

[0029] The receiving module is used to receive the chimney health data.

[0030] Receive chimney profile data associated with the chimney;

[0031] Estimate the chimney health level associated with the chimney based on relevant chimney health data and chimney profile data; and

[0032] The chimney maintenance plan is determined based on the estimated chimney health level.

[0033] Therefore, it should be understood that embodiments of the present invention provide a system in which sensors located in or near a chimney transmit data related to measured parameters of the chimney to a remote analysis unit. The remote analysis unit acquires the data received from the sensor unit and a chimney profile, and determines the health status of the chimney, i.e., its operational status, in order to determine whether and / or when maintenance should be planned. The chimney profile data corresponds to prior known information about the chimney; that is, it is pre-existing data rather than dynamic data from the sensors, examples of which will be described in further detail below. Both the dynamic data from the sensor unit and the pre-existing profile data are fed to the remote analysis unit, which can use a suitable model to determine whether and when chimney maintenance is required.

[0034] For example, a remote analysis unit can determine, based on chimney health data and chimney profile data, that a chimney's pollutants exceed acceptable levels and require urgent maintenance. Conversely, a remote analysis unit can determine that a chimney is currently relatively clean and will not require cleaning for a period of time, allowing for the creation of chimney maintenance plans, for example, omitting maintenance within the next six months.

[0035] The sensor unit may include one or more different types of sensors, each measuring parameters related to the chimney. In some embodiments, the sensor unit includes a temperature sensor arranged to measure the temperature of the chimney. The temperature sensor can measure the instantaneous temperature of the chimney.

[0036] Therefore, in some embodiments, the parameters of the chimney may include the temperature of the chimney. This temperature may be the temperature of the gas and / or smoke in the flue of the chimney at a given moment. Alternatively or additionally, a temperature sensor may measure the temperature of the components of the chimney itself, such as the temperature of the flue and / or the temperature of the outer wall of the chimney.

[0037] Alternatively or concurrently, in some embodiments, the parameter may include the ignition frequency. Those skilled in the art will understand that the term "ignition frequency" refers to the frequency at which a source connected to the chimney (e.g., a stove, fireplace, etc.) is ignited. A temperature sensor can determine this based on the time it takes for the temperature to rise (i.e., due to the fire being ignited below the chimney). Chimneys with higher ignition frequencies may have more deposits on their flue walls compared to chimneys with lower ignition frequencies.

[0038] In some potentially overlapping embodiments, the parameter may include ignition intensity. Those skilled in the art will understand that the term "ignition intensity" refers to how hot the source is when it is ignited. A temperature sensor can determine this based on the temperature rise (i.e., due to the ignition of a fire below the chimney). The applicant has recognized that, for example, the accumulation of contaminants on the flue walls may be related to ignition intensity.

[0039] In other potentially overlapping embodiments, the parameters may include a temperature profile over a period of time. The temperature profile provides an indication of the rate of temperature change as the fire is ignited below the chimney and may indicate the current accumulation of contaminants within the flue.

[0040] Therefore, a temperature profile can provide an indication of the "trajectory" of temperature change over time, and in some embodiments, the temperature profile may include multiple temperature measurement points during the time period. The "shape" of the profile can indicate the current state of the chimney, i.e., the shape of the profile when the temperature is plotted as a function of time.

[0041] Temperature profiles may additionally or alternatively include time derivatives of temperature to provide a measure of the rate of temperature change, i.e., a measure of the “steepness” of the time-temperature gradient. Multiple time derivatives of temperature may be used. One or more second-order time derivatives of temperature may additionally or alternatively be used to determine the “acceleration” of temperature in the flue (i.e., the rate of change of the rate of change itself). Of course, higher-order time derivatives may be used. Such time derivatives may be included as part of the temperature profile itself, or the temperature profile may contain only temperature measurements (i.e., temperatures measured at different time points), where the time derivatives are determined separately, for example, by a remote analysis unit, e.g., when estimating the chimney health level.

[0042] Similarly, the temperature curve may additionally or alternatively include the time integral of the temperature, i.e., the "area under the curve" of the temperature plot as a function of time. Alternatively, the time integral may be determined by a remote analysis unit, for example, when estimating the chimney health level.

[0043] In some embodiments, the sensor unit includes an ultrasonic sensor arranged to determine when contaminants are present in the chimney and / or to measure the thickness of contaminants within the chimney. By emitting ultrasonic signals and receiving reflections of these signals, the ultrasonic transducer can determine the presence and / or quantity of contaminants. For example, by comparing the amplitude of the received signal to a threshold, the sensor unit can determine the type of material reflecting the ultrasonic signal based on the amount of reflection (and thus attenuation). Furthermore, the amplitude and / or time-of-flight (TOF) of the received ultrasonic signal can indicate the thickness of the contaminants within the chimney. For example, the ultrasonic sensor can receive two reflected pulses, one reflected from the contaminant layer and the other from the flue wall, wherein the time difference between the received reflections is proportional to the thickness of the contaminant layer. Alternatively or additionally, the ultrasonic sensor can be arranged to measure flow rate and / or temperature within the chimney.

[0044] The sensor unit can be placed in any convenient location to allow for accurate measurement of parameters used to determine maintenance schedules. However, in some embodiments, the sensor unit is arranged to be mounted at the top of the chimney. In some potentially overlapping embodiments, the sensor unit is arranged to be at least partially mounted within the chimney's flue.

[0045] In some embodiments, the sensor unit is powered by a battery. Providing the sensor unit with a battery can advantageously provide a convenient power source that does not require connection to an AC power source, thereby avoiding any need for wiring from the AC power source to the chimney.

[0046] In some potentially overlapping embodiments, the sensor unit is connected to a solar panel. Solar panels can be conveniently positioned on the roof of a house and are therefore well-suited for powering the sensor unit. Such solar panels can directly power the sensor unit; however, they can also be used, alternatively, to charge the batteries powering the sensor unit.

[0047] Alternatively or concurrently, the sensor unit may be connected to a piezoelectric battery, a thermal battery, a voltaic battery, and / or a radio frequency (RF) rectifier. Those skilled in the art will understand that an RF rectifier is a device that “collects” the power (i.e., from electromagnetic energy) of RF signals present in the environment surrounding the device.

[0048] It will be readily understood that the analysis unit is "remote," meaning it is a separate hardware device from the sensor units. The analysis unit advantageously eliminates the need for the sensor units themselves to perform any deterministic work and can also provide centralized analysis capabilities for multiple sensor units in a sensor network. Therefore, in some embodiments, the sensor network includes multiple sensor units, each arranged to be placed in or near a corresponding chimney, wherein each sensor unit includes at least one sensor arranged to measure parameters of the corresponding chimney and use the measured parameters to generate corresponding chimney health data associated with the chimney, wherein each sensor unit further includes a corresponding transmission module arranged to transmit the chimney health data to the remote analysis unit.

[0049] In some such embodiments, a remote analysis unit is arranged to receive chimney health data from each sensor unit and chimney profile data associated with the corresponding chimney. The remote analysis unit is also arranged to estimate a chimney health level associated with each chimney based on the chimney health data and chimney profile data, and to determine a chimney maintenance plan based on the estimated chimney health level. Therefore, the remote analysis unit can receive chimney health data corresponding to a plurality of chimneys and determine a suitable maintenance plan for each chimney. Each remote analysis unit can serve a wide geographical area, such as many houses, apartment buildings, communities, villages, towns, cities, etc. The sensor network may additionally or alternatively include multiple remote analysis units, such that each remote analysis unit communicates with one or more sensor units.

[0050] While multiple chimneys can be located on a single building, in a particular set of embodiments, the multiple sensor units comprise two or more sensor units, each arranged to be placed in or near a corresponding chimney on a different building. Therefore, in some embodiments, the sensor network system includes:

[0051] A first sensor unit is arranged to be placed in or near a first chimney on a first building;

[0052] The second sensor unit is arranged to be placed in or near the second chimney on the second building;

[0053] Each of the first and second sensor units includes at least one sensor arranged to measure parameters of the corresponding chimney and generate chimney health data associated with the corresponding chimney using the measured parameters. Each sensor unit further includes a transmission module arranged to transmit the chimney health data. As outlined below, the use of a distributed wireless communication network is particularly advantageous in arrangements providing multiple sensor units across multiple buildings.

[0054] In one set of such embodiments, the sensor network system includes one or more additional sensor units, each arranged to be placed in or near a corresponding chimney on a corresponding additional building, wherein the additional sensor unit includes at least one sensor arranged to measure parameters of the corresponding chimney and use the measured parameters to generate chimney health data associated with the corresponding chimney, and each additional sensor unit further includes a transmission module arranged to transmit the chimney health data.

[0055] In some embodiments, the transmitting and receiving modules are wireless communication modules. Using wireless communication between the sensor unit and the remote analysis unit advantageously means that data exchange between these units does not require wiring. In some embodiments, the remote analysis unit is cloud-based. It should be understood that cloud-based means that the remote analysis unit is provided with on-demand computing resources in, for example, a suitable data center, such that the remote analysis unit includes a server.

[0056] Many wireless communication technologies exist suitable for providing data exchange between sensor units and remote analysis units. In some embodiments, the wireless communication transmission and reception modules are arranged to communicate via a cellular network. A cellular network is a mobile network, a communication network geographically distributed across multiple “cells,” each cell having at least one cellular transceiver through which data is exchanged with the sensor unit and / or remote analysis unit. In some embodiments, the cellular network includes a cellular Internet of Things (IoT) network, non-limiting examples of which may be specified by the 3GPP standardization body.

[0057] In a set of potentially overlapping embodiments, the wireless communication transmission and reception modules are arranged to communicate via Communication link communication. Those skilled in the art will understand. It is a cellular wireless communication technology known in the art itself.

[0058] In some potentially overlapping embodiments, the wireless communication transmitting and receiving modules are arranged to communicate via Communication link communication. It is a wireless communication standard that uses relatively short wavelengths, ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio waves to exchange data, and typically operates at a frequency of approximately 2.4 GHz. Besides the "classic" standard... In addition, as used in this article, the term " "Communication link" should be understood as including Other variations of the standard, including but not limited to low power...

[0059] In some potentially overlapping embodiments, the wireless communication transmitting and receiving modules are arranged to communicate via Wi-Fi. TM Network communication. This will help you understand "Wi-Fi". TM "It is a family of wireless communication standards based on the IEEE 802.11 family of standards. The sensor unit may, for example, be equipped with a Wi-Fi module that allows it to connect to a nearby Wi-Fi network, such as a home wireless network within the building to which the chimney belongs."

[0060] Communication networks (e.g., those of the types described above, including but not limited to wireless communication networks) can have any suitable topology, such as star or tree networks. However, in some embodiments, sensor networks include mesh networks. It will be understood that a "mesh" network is a topology in which network nodes are (typically directly) connected to as many other nodes in the network as possible and route data between them, typically for the purpose of routing data as efficiently as possible. Therefore, in embodiments where the sensor network includes multiple sensor units, the sensor units can be arranged to provide "peer-to-peer" communication among themselves to route chimney health data to remote analysis units via the mesh network.

[0061] It will be understood that, in a particular set of embodiments, the communication network includes a wireless communication network that allows, for example, "long-range" communication using a "low-power wide-area network" (LPWAN). This is similar to... and Wi-Fi TM This differs from other "short-range" communication technologies. In some cases, LPWAN technology may be superior to "traditional" cellular communication technologies (e.g., 2G, 3G, 4G) because LPWAN technology typically uses lower power consumption, which is advantageous when sensor units are installed in or near chimneys, where "unlimited" power supply may be difficult, and where sensor units instead rely on batteries and / or intermittent power sources (e.g., solar energy).

[0062] Therefore, in some embodiments, the wireless communication network includes a building-to-building network. This is significantly different from an arrangement that uses a local area network (LAN) for communication exchange over a small area, such as within a specific building. Of course, the actual range required will depend on the distance between the relevant buildings; however, in some embodiments, the communication range of the wireless communication network can be at least 100m, optionally at least 500m, further optionally at least 1km, further optionally at least 2km, and still further optionally at least 5km.

[0063] When sensor units are distributed across a wide area, such as when sensor units are located in or near chimneys on completely different buildings, the use of a remote communication network is particularly advantageous, thereby enabling a distributed network of sensor units to spread over a wide area (e.g., across towns or cities).

[0064] Examples of LPWAN technologies particularly suitable for communication between sensor units and / or remote analysis units include: Long Term Evolution (LTE) Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT); And Sigfox. For example, LPWAN technology can achieve distances of several kilometers. For example, NB-IoT's approximate range is between 1km (urban) and 10km (rural). The approximate range is between 5km (urban) and 20km (rural), while the approximate range of Sigfox is between 10km (urban) and 40km (rural).

[0065] It should be understood, of course, that this list of suitable technologies is not exhaustive, and that other suitable technologies that allow building-to-building communication can be readily used and are within the scope of this invention. Furthermore, the scope provided herein is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the invention, but rather to provide context regarding the geographical area that can be covered using such sensor network systems.

[0066] As outlined above, the remote analysis unit receives chimney profile data associated with the chimney. This chimney profile data corresponds to prior known information about the chimney; that is, it is pre-existing data rather than dynamic data.

[0067] Chimney profile data can include information about what type of source is connected to the chimney, such as whether the chimney is used for a fireplace, stove, boiler, incinerator, etc. In fact, a single chimney can serve multiple purposes, each of which can be represented in the chimney profile data (e.g., the profile data can indicate that a given chimney is used for two fireplaces and one stove). Source information can include information related to the source, such as model, age, size, and service history.

[0068] In some potentially overlapping embodiments, chimney profile data includes fuel information associated with the chimney. This can indicate what type of fuel the source connected to the chimney is burning, such as whether it is burning wood, coal, natural gas, or oil. This information can indicate the type of contaminants accumulated within the flue, the fire risk associated with the level of contaminants for a given type of fuel being burned, and the expected rate of change in contaminant accumulation.

[0069] In some other potentially overlapping embodiments, chimney profile data includes the chimney's cleaning history. By taking into account previous chimney cleaning activities, a more informed analysis of the chimney's cleaning and maintenance needs can be made. For example, if there is still a significant amount of contaminant deposits despite a recent chimney cleaning, this may indicate that contaminant buildup on that particular chimney is occurring at a faster-than-average rate and therefore may require more frequent cleaning.

[0070] A chimney maintenance plan can include an estimate of when the chimney should be next maintained, and can be a deadline or time window. This information can be relayed to the chimney owner, building manager, or agency responsible for chimney maintenance, such as a private company or a public agency such as a fire department.

[0071] In addition to providing maintenance plans, in at least some embodiments, the sensor network can generate an alarm when the difference between the estimated chimney health level and the target chimney health level exceeds a threshold. For example, if it is determined that the accumulation of pollutants in the flue exceeds a perceived safe level (e.g., there is a significant fire risk), an alarm can be issued to indicate the need for urgent maintenance. This alarm can be issued by a remote analysis unit or a separate hardware unit, such as an emergency alarm unit.

[0072] In some embodiments, the sensor network system is configured to generate an emergency alarm signal when parameters of the chimney exceed a threshold. For example, in the case of a determined temperature, an alarm can be generated when the temperature exceeds a threshold indicating, for example, a domestic fire. Such an alarm can be used to issue an audible alarm (such as a bell, siren, or sirens) inside the building, and / or can be used to alert appropriate agencies such as the fire department.

[0073] In some embodiments, the remote analysis unit is arranged to estimate emission levels based on chimney health data and / or chimney profile data. Thus, the system can be able to determine the emission profile of the source to which the chimney is connected. For example, an older oven may release more particles than a newer oven. Similarly, an oven that burns pellets may produce fewer emissions than an oven that burns wood. As outlined above, temperature measurements can provide information about ignition frequency and / or ignition intensity. This information can be combined with information about the age and / or model of the source (e.g., an oven or another type of source) to predict emissions (e.g., particulate matter) produced by the source.

[0074] In one particular set of embodiments, remote analysis units can be arranged to estimate regional air quality levels based on chimney health data and / or chimney profile data associated with multiple sensor units. The applicant has recognized that, in one particularly advantageous set of embodiments, data can be obtained from multiple chimneys distributed across a specific geographic area (e.g., numerous houses, apartment buildings, communities, villages, towns, cities, municipalities, counties, districts, countries, etc.). This “crowdsourced” data can then be used to make estimates of regional air quality, both estimating current air quality and predicting future changes and trends in said geographic area. For example, if chimney use (e.g., ignition intensity and / or frequency) increases in a particular area, it can be determined that a negative impact on air quality is imminent, which may indicate that proactive preventative or mitigation measures should be taken. Conversely, if many people appear to be switching to less polluting fuels or reducing their use, a positive impact on air quality may be detected.

[0075] Therefore, in some embodiments, the sensor network includes:

[0076] A first sensor unit is arranged to be placed in or near a first chimney on a first building;

[0077] The second sensor unit is arranged to be placed in or near the second chimney on the second building;

[0078] Each of the first sensor unit and the second sensor unit includes at least one sensor, the at least one sensor being arranged to measure parameters of the corresponding chimney and use the measured parameters to generate chimney health data associated with the corresponding chimney, and each sensor unit further includes a transmission module being arranged to transmit the chimney health data.

[0079] The remote analysis unit is configured to estimate the regional air quality level based on chimney health data and / or chimney profile data received from each of the sensor units.

[0080] In one set of such embodiments, the sensor network includes one or more additional sensor units, each arranged to be placed in or near a corresponding chimney on a corresponding additional building, wherein the additional sensor unit includes at least one sensor arranged to measure parameters of the corresponding chimney and use the measured parameters to generate chimney health data associated with the corresponding chimney, each additional sensor unit further including a transmission module arranged to transmit the chimney health data, wherein a remote analysis unit is arranged to estimate the regional air quality level using the chimney health data and / or chimney profile data received from the additional sensor units.

[0081] In some embodiments, the remote analysis unit is arranged to estimate the fire risk level based on chimney health data and / or chimney profile data. Therefore, the system can determine the risk of a fire occurring in the chimney based on data from the sensor unit and / or prior knowledge provided by the profile data. This risk level can be, for example, the probability (or related to probability) of a fire occurring in the chimney. This fire risk level can be reported to, for example, the institution or the owner / resident of the building with the chimney. This can advantageously allow for proactive steps to manage fire risk.

[0082] As previously outlined, fire risk levels can be determined based on the amount of contaminants accumulated on the flue walls. Alternatively or alternatively, fire risk levels can be based on ignition intensity and / or ignition frequency. For example, detecting an increase in fireplace use may indicate a greater fire risk.

[0083] It will be understood that the remote analysis unit may be a single hardware unit, but it may also be a distributed system, wherein the various functions of the remote analysis unit according to embodiments of the invention are performed across multiple different hardware units. Similarly, although in some embodiments the hardware components of the sensor unit may be contained within a common housing, other embodiments are conceivable in which one or more components of the sensor unit are separate pieces of hardware connected together to provide the functionality described herein with respect to embodiments of the invention.

[0084] As outlined above, in some embodiments, the remote analysis unit can estimate emission levels and / or regional air quality levels based on chimney health data and / or chimney profile data. In some potentially overlapping embodiments, sensor units in the sensor network can also be used to acquire information about the air quality in the area surrounding the chimney. For example, the sensor units can acquire environmental data such as air quality parameters, concentrations of one or more pollutants, and concentrations of airborne particulate matter (e.g., particles of a specific size). The sensor units may include one or more suitable sensors for acquiring the associated environmental data. The environmental data can then be analyzed to determine air quality metrics associated with the area surrounding the sensor units. This analysis can be performed, for example, by the remote analysis unit. Attached Figure Description

[0085] Some embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0086] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a prior art chimney arrangement;

[0087] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 Another schematic diagram illustrating the accumulation of pollutants in the chimney arrangement;

[0088] Figure 3 This is a block diagram of a sensor network according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0089] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a sensor network according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0090] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the cross-section of the chimney arrangement within the sensor network; and

[0091] Figure 6 It is a display Figure 3 and 4 The data flow diagram of the operation of the remote analysis unit. Detailed Implementation

[0092] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a prior art chimney arrangement 2. The chimney arrangement 2, which can be located on one side of a residential building, includes a fireplace 4 and a chimney body 6, through which a flue 8 rises vertically.

[0093] As indicated by the arrow, flue 8 provides a path for the gases and smoke produced by the flames 10 within fireplace 4 to escape from fireplace 4 to the outside world. Flue 8 also provides a path for drawing in air for combustion within fireplace 4 (i.e., with...). Figure 1(The direction opposite to the middle arrow), however, for ease of explanation, air intake is not shown.

[0094] In this particular instance, flame 10 is a result of burning wood. However, as the wood burns, it leaves deposits of creosote 12 on the inner wall of flue 8, such as... Figure 2 As can be seen in the image. These deposits 12 accumulate over time and impede airflow through the flue 8, as shown in the image. Figure 1 The arrow in the image is pointed to by a thinner arrow. This accumulation of creosote deposit 12 is dangerous because deposit 12 itself is flammable and therefore can be ignited, with potentially catastrophic consequences (i.e., a house fire may occur).

[0095] To avoid such problems, the flue 8 of the chimney body 6 must be cleaned regularly, for example once a year, to remove deposits 12.

[0096] Figure 3 This is a block diagram of a sensor network 14 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The sensor network 14 includes sensor units 16 and remote analysis units 18, wherein the sensor units 16 and remote analysis units 18 are arranged to communicate with each other via a wireless communication link 20. In this particular example, the wireless communication link 20 is a cellular connection (i.e., it utilizes a "mobile network"), but alternatively or alternatively, it may use... Low power consumption Wi-Fi TM Alternatively, other suitable wireless communication standards may be used, or proprietary wireless communication schemes may be used appropriately depending on network conditions (e.g., range, signal-to-noise ratio, etc.).

[0097] In this example, sensor unit 16 includes a temperature sensor 22, an ultrasonic sensor 24, a processor 26, and a wireless transducer module 28. Specifically, wireless transducer module 28 is a cellular transducer module and is adapted to communicate via a cellular network in a manner known in the art itself. For sensor unit 16 to report to remote analysis unit 18, wireless transducer module 28 may have only transmission capabilities; however, in this example, it also has receiving capabilities.

[0098] The processor 26 is arranged to buffer data in memory 27, allowing data to be transmitted intermittently via the wireless transducer module 28. This saves power by allowing the sensor unit 16 to "wake up" from a low-power mode only at specific intervals to transmit buffered data.

[0099] The remote analysis unit 18 includes a wireless transducer module 30, a processor 32, and a memory 34. Similar to the wireless transducer module 28 in the sensor unit 16, the wireless transducer module 30 in the remote analysis unit 18 is a cellular transducer module, and although the wireless transducer module 30 may only have receiving capabilities, in this example it also has transmitting capabilities.

[0100] The operation of sensor unit 16 and remote analysis unit 18 is described in further detail below.

[0101] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the network topology of sensor network 14, in which multiple sensor units 16a-e are connected to remote analysis unit 18 via corresponding wireless communication links 20a-e. In this embodiment, all wireless communication links 20a-e are cellular communication links; however, different types of wireless communication links can be used, and embodiments with a mixture of different wireless communication links are envisioned, such that some sensor units 16a-e use different wireless communication standards (and / or proprietary communication schemes) than other sensor units. Alternatively, wired communication links can be used to replace one or more of the wireless communication links 20a-e.

[0102] By way of example only, the chimney maintenance plan 36 generated by the remote analysis unit 18 can be provided to external entities 38, such as fire departments, local authorities, public agencies, private chimney monitoring agencies, etc.

[0103] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the cross-section of the chimney arrangement 2 within the sensor network 14. Chimney arrangement 2 corresponds to... Figure 1 and 2 The chimney arrangement is as described, but according to an embodiment of the invention, a sensor unit 16 is provided that communicates with the remote analysis unit 18, wherein the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0104] Temperature sensor 22 of sensor unit 16 is arranged to measure temperature 27 within flue 8. By monitoring the change of temperature 27 over time, the ignition frequency of flame 10 within fireplace 4 (i.e., the frequency at which flame 10 is ignited) and the ignition intensity of flame 10 (i.e., how hot the flame 10 is) can be determined. Furthermore, a temperature profile (i.e., a measure of how temperature within flue 8 changes over time) can be determined.

[0105] An ultrasonic sensor 24 is arranged to transmit an ultrasonic signal 25a, such as an ultrasonic pulse, and to receive reflections 25b of the transmitted ultrasonic signal. The ultrasonic sensor 24 can determine the presence and thickness of deposit 12 based on the received reflections 25b. In cases where deposit 12 is unevenly distributed, the measured thickness can be a “spot test” providing a measure of thickness at a specific point; however, when using multiple ultrasonic sensors, multiple measurements can be performed, allowing the maximum and / or average thickness to be determined as needed. The ultrasonic sensor 24 can also determine the flow rate and / or temperature within the chimney.

[0106] The measured parameters from each of these sensors 22 and 24 are processed by processor 26, which transmits the processed chimney health data 40 to the wireless transducer module 28 of sensor unit 16. Wireless transducer module 28 transmits this chimney health data 40 to remote analysis unit 18, which receives the chimney health data 40 via its wireless receiver module 30.

[0107] The wireless receiving module 30 transmits chimney health data 40 to the processor 32 of the remote analysis unit 18. The processor 32 also receives chimney profile data 42 from the memory 34, wherein this chimney profile data 42 is stored in… Figure 6 As shown in the figure, the figure is an illustration Figure 3 and 4 Data flow diagram of the operation of remote analysis unit 18.

[0108] The data received by processor 32 includes: ignition duration and intensity data 44; temperature profile data 46; fireplace information data 48 (e.g., fireplace model and age); and cleaning history data 50. Ignition duration and intensity data 44 and temperature profile data 46 can be received from sensor unit 16 as chimney health data, while fireplace information data 48 and cleaning history data 50 can be received from memory 27 as chimney profile data 42 (as shown by the dashed lines surrounding this data 48, 50). Processor 32 can also receive historical temperature profile data and / or ignition intensity and duration data (not shown).

[0109] The processor, for example, uses artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to combine various data sources. For instance, a slow slope on temperature curve data 46 could indicate a large amount of deposits accumulating on the chimney walls (slowing the rate of temperature rise near the sensor unit), while a steeper slope could indicate a "cleaner" chimney. However, there might be some dependence on ignition intensity and duration, which could affect this slope. Analyzing this data over time, along with prior knowledge of the fireplace's model and / or age, and information about previous cleaning activities (e.g., the time of the last cleaning, the level of contamination during previous cleanings, etc.), could help draw conclusions about the chimney's current condition and how it has changed over time. The processor then uses these conclusions to generate a chimney maintenance plan 36, as previously outlined, which is output by the system.

[0110] Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of the present invention provide a networked system in which data relating to the condition and health of a chimney is transmitted to a remote analysis unit that combines the data with known prior information about the chimney. Such systems allow for “smarter” resource use by scheduling maintenance based on operational needs rather than on general (e.g., fixed) plans. Although specific embodiments have been described in detail, those skilled in the art will understand that many variations and modifications are possible using the principles of the invention shown herein.

Claims

1. A sensor network system for determining chimney maintenance plans, the sensor network comprising: A sensor unit is arranged to be placed in or near the chimney, wherein the sensor unit includes at least one sensor arranged to measure parameters of the chimney and use the measured parameters to generate chimney health data associated with the chimney, and the sensor unit further includes a transmission module arranged to transmit the chimney health data. as well as A remote analysis unit, comprising a receiving module configured to receive chimney health data and chimney profile data associated with the chimney; The remote analysis unit is configured to estimate the chimney health level associated with the chimney based on the corresponding chimney health data and chimney profile data. The remote analysis unit determines the chimney maintenance plan based on the estimated chimney health level. The sensor unit includes a temperature sensor, and the parameters include the temperature curve of the chimney over a certain period of time. The temperature profile provides an indication of the rate of temperature change when the fire is ignited below the chimney; and The indicator of the rate of temperature change when the fire is ignited below the chimney is used to generate chimney health data. A lower rate of change indicates that the chimney has a large amount of deposits accumulated on the flue wall, while a higher rate of change indicates a cleaner chimney.

2. The sensor network system of claim 1, wherein the temperature curve includes the time derivative of the temperature of the chimney and / or the time integral of the temperature of the chimney.

3. The sensor network system according to claim 1, wherein the parameters include ignition frequency and / or ignition intensity.

4. The sensor network system of claim 1, wherein the sensor unit includes an ultrasonic sensor arranged to determine when contaminants are present in the chimney and / or to measure the thickness of contaminants in the chimney.

5. The sensor network system of claim 1, comprising a plurality of sensor units, each sensor unit being arranged to be placed in or near a corresponding chimney, wherein each sensor unit includes at least one sensor arranged to measure parameters of the corresponding chimney and use the measured parameters to generate corresponding chimney health data associated with the chimney, wherein each sensor unit further includes a corresponding transmission module arranged to transmit the chimney health data to the remote analysis unit.

6. The sensor network system of claim 5, wherein the remote analysis unit is arranged to receive the chimney health data from each sensor unit and to receive chimney profile data associated with the respective chimney, wherein the remote analysis unit is arranged to estimate the chimney health level associated with the respective chimney based on the respective chimney health data and the chimney profile data, wherein the remote analysis unit determines the chimney maintenance plan based on the estimated chimney health level.

7. The sensor network system according to claim 5, comprising: A first sensor unit is arranged to be placed in or near a first chimney on a first building; The second sensor unit is arranged to be placed in or near the second chimney on the second building; Each of the first sensor unit and the second sensor unit includes at least one sensor, the at least one sensor being arranged to measure parameters of the corresponding chimney and use the measured parameters to generate chimney health data associated with the corresponding chimney, and each sensor unit further includes a transmission module being arranged to transmit the chimney health data.

8. The sensor network system according to claim 1, wherein the transmission module and the receiving module are a wireless transmission module and a wireless receiving module.

9. The sensor network system of claim 8, wherein the wireless transmission module and the wireless receiving module are arranged for building-to-building network communication.

10. The sensor network system of claim 8, wherein the wireless transmission module and the wireless receiving module are arranged to communicate via a cellular network.

11. The sensor network system of claim 10, wherein the cellular network includes a cellular Internet of Things (IoT) network.

12. The sensor network system of claim 10, wherein the wireless transmission module and the wireless receiving module are arranged to communicate via a LoRa® communication link.

13. The sensor network system of claim 8, wherein the wireless transmission module and the wireless receiving module are arranged to communicate via a Bluetooth® communication link and / or a Wi-Fi™ network.

14. The sensor network system of claim 1, wherein the sensor network comprises a mesh network.

15. The sensor network system of claim 1, wherein the remote analysis unit is cloud-based.

16. The sensor network system of claim 1, wherein the chimney profile data includes information about what type of source is connected to the chimney.

17. The sensor network system of claim 1, wherein the chimney profile data includes fuel information associated with the chimney.

18. The sensor network system of claim 1, wherein the chimney profile data includes the chimney's cleaning history.

19. The sensor network system of claim 1, configured to generate an alarm when the difference between the estimated chimney health level and the target chimney health level exceeds a threshold.

20. The sensor network system of claim 1, which is arranged to generate an emergency alarm signal when the parameter of the chimney exceeds a threshold.

21. The sensor network system of claim 1, wherein the remote analysis unit is arranged to estimate emission levels based on the chimney health data and / or the chimney profile data.

22. The sensor network system of claim 1, wherein the sensor units are further arranged to measure environmental data.

23. The sensor network system of claim 22, wherein the environmental data includes at least one of the following: air quality parameters; concentration of pollutants; and concentration of airborne particulate matter.

24. The sensor network system of claim 1, wherein the remote analysis unit is configured to estimate the fire risk level based on the chimney health data and / or the chimney profile data.

25. The sensor network system of claim 1, wherein the sensor unit is arranged to be mounted at the top of the chimney.

26. The sensor network system of claim 1, wherein the sensor unit is arranged to be at least partially installed within the flue of the chimney.

27. The sensor network system of claim 1, wherein the sensor unit is powered by a battery.

28. The sensor network system of claim 1, wherein the sensor unit is connected to a solar panel.

29. A sensor unit arranged in or near a chimney, wherein the sensor unit comprises: At least one sensor is arranged to measure parameters of the chimney and use the measured parameters to generate chimney health data associated with the chimney; as well as A transmission module, configured to transmit the chimney health data to a remote analysis unit, The sensor unit includes a temperature sensor, and the parameters include the temperature curve of the chimney over a certain period of time. The temperature profile provides an indication of the rate of temperature change when the fire is ignited below the chimney; and The indicator of the rate of temperature change when the fire is ignited below the chimney is used to generate chimney health data. A lower rate of change indicates that the chimney has a large amount of deposits accumulated on the flue wall, while a higher rate of change indicates a cleaner chimney.

30. A method for operating a sensor network system for determining a chimney maintenance plan, the sensor network comprising: The sensor unit includes at least one sensor and a transmission module; and a remote analysis unit, the remote analysis unit including a receiving module, the method including: The parameters of the chimney are measured using the sensor. The measured parameters are used to generate chimney health data associated with the chimney; The chimney health data is transmitted using the transmission module. The receiving module is used to receive the chimney health data. Receive chimney profile data associated with the chimney; Estimate the chimney health level associated with the chimney based on relevant chimney health data and chimney profile data; and The chimney maintenance plan is determined based on the estimated chimney health level. The sensor unit includes a temperature sensor, and the parameters include the temperature curve of the chimney over a certain period of time. The temperature profile provides an indication of the rate of temperature change when the fire is ignited below the chimney; and The indicator of the rate of temperature change when the fire is ignited below the chimney is used to generate chimney health data. A lower rate of change indicates that the chimney has a large amount of deposits accumulated on the flue wall, while a higher rate of change indicates a cleaner chimney.

31. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform a method for operating a sensor network system for determining a chimney maintenance plan, the sensor network comprising: The sensor unit includes at least one sensor and a transmission module; and a remote analysis unit, the remote analysis unit including a receiving module, the method including: The parameters of the chimney are measured using the sensor. The measured parameters are used to generate chimney health data associated with the chimney; The chimney health data is transmitted using the transmission module. The receiving module is used to receive the chimney health data. Receive chimney profile data associated with the chimney; Estimate the chimney health level associated with the chimney based on relevant chimney health data and chimney profile data; and The chimney maintenance plan is determined based on the estimated chimney health level. The sensor unit includes a temperature sensor, and the parameters include the temperature curve of the chimney over a certain period of time. The temperature profile provides an indication of the rate of temperature change when the fire is ignited below the chimney; and The indicator of the rate of temperature change when the fire is ignited below the chimney is used to generate chimney health data. A lower rate of change indicates that the chimney has a large amount of deposits accumulated on the flue wall, while a higher rate of change indicates a cleaner chimney.

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