Electrode water supply assembly and method for maintaining cathode monitoring of structure

Abstract

Embodiments of an electrode water supply assembly include a cap having a cap body with a reservoir adjacent a proximal electrode end of a permanent reference electrode when the cap is mounted on the permanent reference electrode. The cap body may include (i) a distal cap end defining a distal opening configured to be disposed about the proximal electrode end, (ii) a proximal cap end defining a proximal opening, and (iii) an outer wall defining an overflow port therethrough, the overflow port receives overflow fluid from the reservoir and directs the overflow fluid out of the reservoir. The electrode water supply assembly may include a catheter having: a distal catheter end configured to be fluidly coupled to the proximal opening; and a proximal catheter end configured to be positioned at the cathode test station. Thus, fluid directed to the proximal catheter end is directed through the catheter and into the reservoir to water at least the proximal electrode end.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications This application claims priority and benefit from the following applications: U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 466,056, filed May 12, 2023, entitled "TEST STATION ASSEMBLIES FOR MONITORING CATHODIC PROTECTION OF STRUCTURES AND RELATED METHODS"; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 466,062, filed May 12, 2023, entitled "TEST STATION ASSEMBLIES FOR MONITORING CATHODIC PROTECTION OF STRUCTURES AND RELATED METHODS"; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 466,062, filed July 13, 2023, entitled "ELECTRODE WATERING ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS FOR MAINTAINING CATHODIC MONITORING OF U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 513,391, entitled "STRUCTURES"; U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 18 / 232,855, filed August 11, 2023, entitled "TEST STATION ASSEMBLIES FOR MONITORING CATHODIC PROTECTION OF STRUCTURES AND RELATED METHODS"; U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 18 / 232,862, filed August 11, 2023, entitled "TEST STATION ASSEMBLIES FOR MONITORING CATHODIC PROTECTION OF STRUCTURES AND RELATED METHODS"; and U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 18 / 232,862, filed August 11, 2023, entitled "ELECTRODE WATERING ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS FOR MAINTAINING". U.S. non-provisional application number 18 / 232 for "Catholic Monitoring of Structures"871, U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 18 / 242,046, filed September 5, 2023, entitled "Electrode watering assemblies and methods for maintaining cathodic monitoring of structures"; U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 18 / 386,563, filed November 2, 2023, entitled "Test station assemblies for monitoring cathodic protection of structures and related methods"; and U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 18 / 386,563, filed January 4, 2024, entitled "Test station assemblies for monitoring cathodic protection of structures and related methods". The disclosure of each of the following patent applications (U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 18 / 404,723) is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to assemblies and methods for maintaining cathodic monitoring of underground structures, and more particularly to assemblies and methods including electrode water supply assemblies for maintaining a permanent reference electrode for monitoring cathodic protection of underground structures. Background Technology

[0003] Cathodic protection of metallic structures submerged in electrolytes associated with soil or fluids is an established technique for reducing structural corrosion rates. This cathodic protection can be facilitated by a cathodic protection system that uses electrical energy to provide cathodic currents distributed across the surface of the structure. This system can take the form of sacrificial anodes, AC-to-DC rectifiers, and / or direct DC sources (such as batteries, solar panels, etc.). Once the cathodic protection system is implemented, its effectiveness can be assessed by measuring the potential difference between the structure and a reference electrode associated with the assembly used to evaluate its effectiveness. Therefore, the reference electrode can be used to monitor cathodic protection standards or the conditions of cathodic protection provided to the structure from underground or nearby submerged locations.

[0004] Compared to portable reference electrodes, permanent reference electrodes for cathodic protection allow technicians to measure the electrolyte potential of the underground working electrode more accurately. For example, measurements can be improved based on the reduced distance between the permanent reference electrode and the underground working electrode, resulting in less IR error compared to a portable reference electrode held by a technician. In some cases, industry-standard permanent reference electrodes using solid electrolyte compounds are provided, which face minimal degradation over time and typically include a longer lifespan than alternatives.

[0005] However, in some cases, the solid electrolyte compound may dry out over time, thereby impairing its ability to provide accurate electrolyte potential measurements. Furthermore, given that the cathodic protection structure is located underground or subsurface, these permanent reference electrodes are not easily maintained by replenishing the solid electrolyte compound or moisture from the surrounding backfill sand. Consequently, the service life of the permanent reference electrodes may be much shorter than their intended design life. Therefore, the applicant recognizes that it may be desirable to provide improved assemblies and methods for maintaining the operation of permanent reference electrodes associated with cathodic protection structures to ensure their continuous and reliable operation. This disclosure addresses one or more of the foregoing considerations, as well as other possible considerations. Summary of the Invention

[0006] As described above, it is desirable to provide improved assemblies and methods for providing in-situ maintenance of permanent reference electrodes for at least partially buried or submerged cathodic protection structures. The assemblies and methods disclosed herein can be more efficient, more effective, and less costly than other permanent reference electrode maintenance operations known to date. In some embodiments, the assemblies and methods can facilitate the maintenance of cathodic protection monitoring for a variety of at least partially buried or submerged structures, such as pipelines, tanks, offshore platforms, well casings, etc.

[0007] For example, some embodiments include an electrode watering assembly having a conduit or tubing that can be fluidly connected to a cap provided for a permanent reference electrode. The conduit is connected to an embedded water reservoir or cap that is inserted into one end of an existing permanent reference electrode, which may include an electrical conductor or test lead extending therefrom. In some embodiments, the length of the conduit may extend along the length of the electrical conductor to improve installation procedures. Furthermore, the cap of the watering assembly may be configured to retrofit onto an existing permanent reference electrode. To align with the permanent reference electrode, the cap may be designed with a cylindrical base and a conical top. The inner diameter of the base may be slightly larger than the outer diameter of the reference electrode to provide a tight fit. Rubber or silicone O-rings or washers may be added to the base to fill any gaps or spaces formed during cap installation, thereby waterproofing the connection therebetween. The cavity of the cap may be hollow and can be used as a water reservoir. An opening is formed through the top of the cap to receive the electrical conductor and the conduit from the permanent reference electrode. A shrink wrap or tubing or other suitable waterproof connector may be used to seal the connection between the electrical conductor and the conduit and the top of the cap. The electrical conductor and the conduit are then guided together to the cathodic protection test station, terminating at a convenient ground location.

[0008] In some embodiments, fluid can thus be injected into the embedded reservoir or cap via a conduit at the ground-level test station, flowing downwards to a normally otherwise inaccessible permanent reference electrode. Since the reservoir is held against the permanent reference electrode, water can be directed to rehydrate the solid or gel electrolyte compound (and surrounding backfill) for an extended period after installation, ensuring accurate measurements throughout the lifespan of the permanent reference electrode and its corresponding immersion structure. When needed (e.g., at regular intervals) or when a decrease in test accuracy is noticed, water can be injected at the test station into a plastic conduit to flow downwards through the conduit and into the cap. Based on diffusion, osmosis, and / or gravity, the water can then impregnate the dried porous membrane of the permanent reference electrode and the surrounding backfill, allowing accurate measurements to be obtained from the electrical conductor again for improved monitoring of cathodic protection.

[0009] In some embodiments, an electrode water supply system is provided to maintain cathodic monitoring of a structure at least partially underground. The electrode water supply system may include a permanent reference electrode configured to monitor cathodic protection of the structure and having a body and an electrode located between a proximal and a distal electrode of the body. The electrode water supply system may include a cap comprising a cap body defining a reservoir adjacent to the proximal electrode. The cap body may include (i) a distal cap end defining a distal opening surrounding the proximal electrode, (ii) a proximal cap end defining a proximal opening, and (iii) an outer wall extending between the distal and proximal cap ends and defining an overflow port therethrough. The electrode water supply system may further include an electrical conductor electrically connected to the electrode, wherein the electrical conductor extends from the proximal electrode and through the distal opening, the reservoir, and the proximal opening. The electrode water supply system may further include a conduit having a distal conduit end fluidly connected to the proximal opening and a proximal conduit end configured to be positioned at the cathode test station. Fluid directed to the proximal conduit end may then be guided through the conduit and into the reservoir to supply water to the proximal electrode. The electrode water supply system may also include an extension conduit having an inlet fluidly connected to the overflow port and an outlet positioned above the body when the permanent reference electrode is mounted in a horizontal configuration. Overflow fluid from the reservoir may then be guided through the extension conduit and onto the body to supply water to the body.

[0010] In some embodiments, an electrode water supply assembly is provided to maintain the operation of a permanent reference electrode used for monitoring cathodic protection of a structure. The electrode water supply assembly may include a cap comprising a cap body of rigid material defining a reservoir adjacent to the proximal electrode end of the permanent reference electrode when the cap is mounted on the permanent reference electrode. The cap body may include (i) a distal cap end defining a distal opening configured to surround the proximal electrode end, (ii) a proximal cap end defining the proximal opening, and (iii) an outer wall extending between the distal cap end and the proximal cap end and defining an overflow port therethrough, the overflow port being configured to receive overflow fluid from the reservoir and guide the overflow fluid outside the reservoir. The electrode water supply assembly may also include a conduit comprising a flexible material. The conduit may include a distal conduit end configured to be fluidly connected to the proximal opening and a proximal conduit end configured to be positioned at the cathode test station, such that fluid directed to the proximal conduit end is directed through the conduit and into the reservoir to supply water to at least the proximal electrode.

[0011] In some embodiments, a method is provided for maintaining cathodic monitoring of a structure at least partially underground using an electrode water supply assembly. The method may include supplying a fluid flow from a surface test station to a proximal conduit end of a conduit, thereby directing the fluid to a distal conduit end of the conduit and to a reservoir within a cap disposed around a permanent reference electrode. The cap may include a cap body having an outer wall and an overflow port defined through the outer wall. The method may further include wetting an electrolyte compound within the body of the permanent reference electrode with the fluid in the reservoir of the cap. The electrolyte compound may be wetted by guiding a portion of the fluid above a threshold volume through the overflow port and along an extension conduit having an outlet positioned above the body of the permanent reference electrode when the permanent reference electrode is installed in a horizontal configuration. Thus, the portion of the fluid may be directed toward the body to wet the electrolyte compound. Furthermore, the method may include performing one or more tests with the permanent reference electrode to monitor cathodic protection of the structure from the surface test station.

[0012] In some embodiments, a kit is provided that includes a container. The kit may also include one or more caps positioned within the container. Each of the one or more caps may include a cap body defining a reservoir adjacent to the proximal electrode of a respective permanent reference electrode when the cap is mounted on a corresponding permanent reference electrode. The cap body may have (i) a distal cap end defining a distal opening configured to surround the proximal electrode, (ii) a proximal cap end defining the proximal opening, and (iii) an outer wall extending between the distal cap end and the proximal cap end and defining an overflow port therethrough. The kit may include one or more conduits positioned within the container. Each of the one or more conduits may include a flexible material. Each conduit may include a distal conduit end configured to fluidly connect to the proximal opening and a proximal conduit end configured to be positioned at a cathode test station, such that fluid directed to the proximal conduit end is directed through the conduit and into the reservoir to supply water to at least the proximal electrode.

[0013] This document also discusses in detail other aspects and advantages of these exemplary embodiments and other embodiments. Furthermore, it should be understood that the foregoing information and the following detailed description are merely illustrative examples of various aspects and embodiments, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and characteristics of the claimed aspects and embodiments. Therefore, these and other objects, advantages, and features of this disclosure will become apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings. Moreover, it should be understood that the features of the various embodiments described herein are not mutually exclusive and can exist in various combinations and arrangements. Attached Figure Description

[0014] The accompanying drawings, included to provide a further understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure and incorporated into and forming part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the detailed description, serve to illustrate the principles of the embodiments discussed herein. No attempt is made to show the structural details of the present disclosure in more detail than is necessary for a basic understanding of the embodiments discussed herein and the various ways in which they can be practiced. By convention, the various features in the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. The dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings may be enlarged or reduced to illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure more clearly.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic illustration of an example electrode water supply system including an example electrode water supply assembly for maintaining the operation of a permanent reference electrode, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 2A This is a schematic partially exploded cross-sectional view of an example electrode water supply assembly for an example permanent reference electrode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 2B It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 2A The diagram shows a schematic partially exploded side view of the example electrode water supply assembly and the example permanent reference electrode.

[0018] Figure 2C It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 2A The diagram shows a schematic partially exploded perspective view of the example electrode water supply assembly and the example permanent reference electrode.

[0019] Figure 3A It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 2A The diagram shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an example cap for an example electrode water supply assembly.

[0020] Figure 3B It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 3A The example cap shown is a schematic side view.

[0021] Figure 3CIt is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 3A The example cap shown is a schematic 3D view.

[0022] Figure 4A This is a top perspective view of an example cap assembly having a cap and a washer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 4B It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 4A Example cap assembly, bottom-view perspective.

[0024] Figure 5A This is a side perspective view of an example electrode water supply assembly installed on an example permanent reference electrode and including an empty reservoir, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 5B The reservoir according to the embodiments of this disclosure is filled with fluid. Figure 5A A side perspective view of an example electrode water supply assembly.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an example electrode water supply assembly mounted on an example permanent reference electrode and having a dual-chamber cap, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 7A It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 6 The diagram shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an example dual-chamber cap for an example electrode water supply assembly.

[0028] Figure 7B It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 7A The example shown is a schematic side view of a dual-chamber cap.

[0029] Figure 7C It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 7A The diagram shown is a schematic perspective view of an example of a double-chamber cap.

[0030] Figure 8A This is a side perspective view of an example dual-chamber cap according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 8B It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 8A Example side view sectional view of a double-chamber cap.

[0032] Figure 9A This is a schematic side view of an example electrode water supply assembly in a horizontal configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 9B It is based on the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 9A A schematic perspective view of an example electrode water supply assembly.

[0034] Figure 10 This is a schematic side view of another example electrode water supply assembly in a horizontal configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 11A This is a schematic illustration of an example kit for facilitating the installation of an electrode water supply assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0036] Figure 11B This is a schematic illustration of another example kit for facilitating the installation of an electrode water supply assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0037] Figure 11C This is a schematic illustration of another example kit for facilitating the installation of an electrode water supply assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0038] Figure 12 This is a block diagram of an example method for installing an electrode water supply assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 13 This is a block diagram of an example method for installing and using an electrode water supply assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 14 This is a block diagram of an example method for controlling an electrode water supply system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of an example control system for an electrode water supply system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0042] These accompanying drawings include the same numbers in several views to indicate the same parts. The following description is provided as an implementation of the teachings of exemplary embodiments, and those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes can be made to the described embodiments. It will also be apparent that some desired benefits of these embodiments can be obtained by selecting some features of the described embodiments without utilizing others. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and alterations to the described embodiments are possible, and in some cases even desirable. Thus, the following description is provided as an example of the principles of these embodiments, and not as a limitation thereof.

[0043] The wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered restrictive. As used herein, the term "a plurality of" means two or more items or components. Unless otherwise stated, the terms "comprising," "including," "carrying," "having," "containing," and "involving," whether in the written description or in the claims, are open-ended terms specifically meaning "including but not limited to." Therefore, the use of such terms is intended to include the items listed thereafter and their equivalents, as well as additional items. For any claim, the transitional phrases "consisting of..." and "mainly composed of..." are respectively closed or semi-closed transitional phrases. The use of ordinal terms such as "first," "second," and "third" to modify claim elements in claims does not in itself imply any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element relative to another claim element, nor does it imply a chronological order of the method actions performed; rather, they are merely labels used to distinguish one claim element with a certain name from another element with the same name (if not for the use of ordinal terms), thereby differentiating claim elements. Similarly, the term "proximal" should be understood to mean closer to the skill or operator, or in the direction of the skill or operator. Therefore, "far side" should be understood as meaning a position or direction that is far from or away from the technician or operator's orientation.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic illustration of an example electrode water supply system 10, including an example electrode water supply assembly 20 for maintaining the operation of a permanent reference electrode 22, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1As shown, a cathodic protection system 24 is provided to provide cathodic protection for a structure 26 (not to scale) at least partially buried in the ground 30. For example, the structure 26 may be electrically connected to a sacrificial anode 32 via an electrical conductor 34, or in some embodiments, the sacrificial anode 32 may be placed in direct contact with the surface of the structure 26. In some embodiments, another electrical conductor 36 may extend from the sacrificial anode 32 to the electrical system 38 of the test station 40 or the cathodic test station. Furthermore, a permanent reference electrode 22 of the cathodic protection system 24 may be installed in an underground location within a suitable filler in the soil or ground 30. In some embodiments, the permanent reference electrode 22 includes electrode elements in contact with an electrolyte compound and retained within a housing or body 42, which will be discussed in more detail with reference to the following figures. In one embodiment, the electrical conductor 44 may extend from a first or proximal electrode 46 of the permanent reference electrode 22 to the electrical system 38 of the test station 40. The electrical system 38 may include a voltage measuring device (such as one based at least in part on a voltage or other cathodic standard associated with the permanent reference electrode 22) to facilitate monitoring of the cathodic protection provided to the structure 26. In this implementation, the test station 40 provides a convenient ground location from which technicians can assess the operation of the cathodic protection system 24.

[0045] As is currently recognized, the electrode water supply assembly 20 is provided within the electrode water supply system 10 to facilitate long-term, convenient maintenance and / or monitoring of the cathodic protection system 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrode water supply assembly 20 includes: a cap 50 coupled to the body 42 of the permanent reference electrode 22; and a conduit 52 extending from the cap 50 to the watering hub 54 of the test station 40. More specifically, a second or distal cap end 60 of the cap 50 is fitted onto a proximal electrode 46 of the permanent reference electrode 22, the proximal electrode 46 including an electrical conductor 44 electrically connected thereto and extending therefrom. The electrical conductor 44 may thus extend through the distal cap end 60, through a reservoir within the cap 50, through the first or proximal cap end 62 of the cap 50, and to the electrical system 38 of the test station 40. The cap 50 may be constructed of a waterproof and / or rigid material, such as plastic, resin, and / or polymer. As will be fully understood with reference to the following figures, the cap 50 of the material defines one or more reservoirs or chambers therein, which receive fluid from the conduit 52 and precisely direct the fluid to the targeted components of the permanent reference electrode 22.

[0046] In one embodiment, the conduit 52 includes a second or distal conduit end 64 and a first or proximal conduit end 66, the second or distal conduit end 64 being coupled to the proximal cap end 62 of the cap 50, and the first or proximal conduit end 66 being coupled to the water supply central 54 of the test station 40. In some embodiments, the conduit 52 is a flexible tube made of a flexible material (such as plastic, polymer, or rubber) that can traverse the ground 30 in a manner similar to the electrical conductor 44 of the permanent reference electrode 22. That is, the conduit 52 can be positioned to extend substantially parallel to the electrical conductor 44 over all or most of the underground distance covered by the conduit 52. This close positioning, compared to an arrangement that provides separate paths for the electrical conductor and the conduit across the ground 30, is expected to reduce the installation difficulty or workload for installing the electrode water supply assembly 20.

[0047] In some embodiments, the water supply central control 54 may include an inlet port 70 that is easily accessible to a technician at test station 40. For example, inlet port 70 may include a funnel, basin, or other water-guiding component to receive fluid and direct it into the proximal conduit end 66 of conduit 52. In some embodiments, a technician may direct water flow to the proximal conduit end 66 via a pressurized water source, such as a jet assembly having a vessel pressurized by a pump or trigger. In this case, the jet assembly may include fittings such as nozzles that direct water into the proximal conduit end 66 or the inlet port 70 to which it is attached. In some embodiments, the jet assembly may include a retaining cap having an opening therethrough to retain an interconnecting conduit that can be positioned within the proximal conduit end 66. A technician can thus pressurize the vessel and efficiently direct water flow through the interconnecting conduit into conduit 52 and to cap 50.

[0048] In some embodiments, the present invention can be used to maintain multiple permanent reference electrodes 22. Such embodiments may include 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more permanent reference electrodes 22. Each permanent reference electrode 22 may be provided with a cap 50 and connected to a respective conduit 52 having a proximal conduit end 66 positioned near the test station 40. In some embodiments, the proximal conduit ends 66 of the multiple conduits 52 may be connected to a manifold of the water supply central hub 54. In other embodiments, the proximal conduit ends 66 may not be connected to the manifold but may be arranged close to each other, thereby allowing a technician to guide fluid parallel to each other within one or more inlet ports as needed.

[0049] In some embodiments, the electrode water supply system 10 and / or the electrode water supply assembly 20 may further include a controller 80 to manage all or part of the operation of the electrode water supply system 10. For example, the illustrated embodiment includes a controller 80 located at a test station 40. Some embodiments may additionally or optionally include one or more control components located remotely from the test station 40 (e.g., at a service center). The controller 80 may signal to various other components associated with the electrode water supply system 10. For example, the controller 80 may signal to one or more components of the electrical system 38, one or more components of the water supply central control 54, or a combination thereof. Some embodiments may also include a controller 80 that signals to one or more user devices associated with technicians or service centers.

[0050] The controller 80 may be provided to perform or coordinate various actions within the electrode water supply system 10, such as performing tests via the electrical system 38, detecting the current state of the permanent reference electrode 22, instructing the actuator to supply fluid from the fluid source and into the conduit 52, providing an alarm to the user equipment requesting a technician to supply fluid into the conduit 52, etc. Further examples of the controller's operation are provided with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] Controller 80 may include one or more processors 82 and one or more memories 84, such as machine-readable storage media. As used herein, "machine-readable storage media" can be any electronic, magnetic, optical, or other physical storage device that houses or stores information such as executable instructions, data, etc. For example, any machine-readable storage media described herein can be any of, or a combination thereof, random access memory (RAM), volatile memory, non-volatile memory, flash memory, storage drives (such as hard disk drives), solid-state drives, any type of storage disk, etc. Memory 306 may store or include instructions executable by processor 304. As used herein, "processor" can include, for example, one or more processors included in a single device or distributed across multiple computing devices. Processor 304 can be at least one of, or a combination thereof, a central processing unit (CPU), a semiconductor-based microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) for retrieving and executing instructions, a real-time processor (RTP), or other electronic circuitry suitable for retrieving and executing instructions stored on a machine-readable storage medium.

[0052] As used herein, "signal communication," as understood by those skilled in the art, refers to electronic communication (such as hardwiring two components together) or wireless communication. For example, wireless communication may be in the form of Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, ZigBee, or near-field communication. Furthermore, signal communication may include one or more intermediate controllers or relays positioned between elements that are signaling to each other. Several embodiments of the electrode water supply system 10 and electrode water supply assembly 20, and methods of operation thereof, are disclosed in the accompanying drawings and description. The controller 80 may include instructions, software programs, and / or algorithms to facilitate the execution of these methods.

[0053] In one embodiment, various sensors, instruments, and / or transmitters may be incorporated into the electrode water supply system 10. These sensing components may communicate signalally with the controller 80 and provide data or feedback to the controller 80 to determine various sensor data associated with the operation, status, and maintenance of the permanent reference electrode 22. The sensors may measure or detect any appropriate operating parameters that enable the controller 80 and / or technicians to monitor the operation of the electrode water supply system 10, such as voltage or other cathode standards or parameters associated with the permanent reference electrode 22, chemical properties, temperature, pressure, moisture content, and / or other properties that would be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0054] Furthermore, some implementations include one or more actuators to perform actions in response to instructions received from controller 80, user equipment, and / or technicians. In one implementation, the actuator is operatively coupled to a fluid source at test station 40 and can receive instructions from controller 80 to supply fluid to conduit 52. In response to these instructions, the actuator may open a valve or otherwise fluidly connect the fluid source to conduit 52 to supply fluid to conduit 52, cap 50, and permanent reference electrode 22. In implementations, any suitable actuator may be provided in the electrode water supply system 10 to initiate changes for improving the operation and maintenance of permanent reference electrode 22.

[0055] The electrode water supply assembly 20, in at least some embodiments, can be used in various structures positioned in a variety of different environments. For example, on land, the cathodic protection structure 26 can be a transmission pipe or tank at least partially buried in the surrounding environment (such as ground 30). Those skilled in the art will understand that the design of the electrode water supply assembly 20 may be at least partially influenced by the characteristics associated with the intended surrounding environment, which is not intended to be limiting. While the most frequently referred to herein is the context of structure 26 buried in soil or ground 30, such as... Figure 1As shown, however, the disclosed examples and methods can be used in any environment containing a cathodic-protected structure. Furthermore, the examples discussed herein can primarily refer to a permanent reference electrode 22 and electrode water supply assembly 20 having a generally circular shape or cross-section. However, the inventive technique is extendable to embodiments having various cross-sections, including, for example, triangular, rectangular, or hexagonal. Some embodiments herein refer to the receiving and guiding of water in relation to the electrode water supply assembly 20; however, it should be understood that any suitable fluid, such as solutions and electrolyte solutions, solvents, and / or fluids, can be used for the operation of maintaining the permanent reference electrode 22.

[0056] Figure 2A , Figure 2B and Figure 2C Schematic partially exploded cross-sectional, side, and perspective views are shown respectively of an example of an electrode water supply assembly 20 for improving the service life of an example permanent reference electrode 22. As described above, the electrode water supply assembly 20 may include a cap 50 having: a distal cap end 60 for coupling to the proximal electrode terminal 46 of the permanent reference electrode 22; a proximal cap end 62 for receiving the distal conduit end 64 of the conduit 52; and a reservoir 100 defined between the distal cap end 60 and the proximal cap end 62. The distal cap end 60 includes a distal opening 102, which may be appropriately sized and shaped to provide a tight fit on the proximal electrode terminal 46 of the permanent reference electrode 22.

[0057] The electrode water supply assembly 20 may further include one or more waterproof connectors or sealing elements to fluidly seal the distal cap end 60 and / or proximal cap end 62 of the cap 50. For example, the sealing element may include a sealing element such as a gasket 110, an annular ring, or an O-ring, which is held within a recess or receiving groove 112 defined within the inner surface 114 of the distal cap end 60 during operation. In some embodiments, the gasket 110 may be added to or held within the receiving groove 112, such as based on an interference fit or a suitable adhesive, before the cap 50 is mounted on the permanent reference electrode 22. The gasket 110 may be constructed of any suitable deformable material (such as silicone or rubber) to form a waterproof seal between the cap 50 and the permanent reference electrode 22. The gasket 110 may include a thickness 116 at least as large as the annular gap. Figure 2CIn addition, the annular gap may be formed based on the diameter difference between the inner surface 114 of the cap 50 and the outer surface 120 of the permanent reference electrode 22. In some embodiments, the sealing element may additionally or optionally include a heat-shrinkable tape or material applied across the outer surfaces of the cap 50 and the permanent reference electrode 22 at the junction between the cap 50 and the permanent reference electrode 22. In some embodiments, the sealing element may additionally or optionally include epoxy resin, foam, and / or other suitable waterproofing substances or sealants applied between the cap 50 and the permanent reference electrode 22 for fluid sealing or to form a waterproof seal.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the permanent reference electrode 22 includes a body 42 having a plug 124 at a second or distal electrode 126 opposite to the proximal electrode 46. The body 42 may include or be formed of one or more layers of a suitable porous material, such as ceramic and / or plastic. The permanent reference electrode 22 may also include a coiled electrode 128 in contact with an electrolyte compound 130 held within the body 42. Some embodiments may include a sealant (such as epoxy resin) to facilitate retention of the coiled electrode 128 within the body 42. In some embodiments, the electrolyte compound 130 is provided in a solid, semi-solid, and / or gel-like form. In some embodiments, the electrolyte compound 130 may include copper sulfate, water, solid fillers, mixtures thereof, and / or similar materials, or materials having similar electrolytic and / or gel-like properties, but other electrolytic materials are also considered. In practice, any suitable solid or gel electrolyte compound may be provided as the electrolyte compound 130 of the permanent reference electrode 22. Electrical conductor 44 ( Figure 2B The cap 50 can extend from the coiled electrode 128, through the distal opening 102, reservoir 100, and proximal opening 132 of the cap 50, and is connected to the electrical system 38 at the test station 40. Therefore, after the permanent reference electrode 22 is equipped with the electrode water supply assembly 20 and positioned within the ground, water or fluid can be added through the conduit 52 and added to the reservoir 100 of the cap 50, thereby efficiently rewetting or moistening the electrolyte compound 130 of the permanent reference electrode 22. Thus, the cap 50 is ideally positioned to retain or trap water within the reservoir 100 and abut against the proximal electrode end 46 and / or proximal surface 134 of the permanent reference electrode 22. Figure 2A In one embodiment, the electrode water supply assembly 20 also includes a sealing element provided around the proximal cap end 62 to fluidly seal any space between the cap 50, the conductor 44, and the conduit 52 as the conductor 44 and conduit 52 pass through the proximal opening 132. In some embodiments, the sealing element at the proximal cap end 62 may comprise heat-shrinkable tape or other suitable waterproof material, substance, or sealant.

[0059] As is currently recognized, embodiments of the electrode water supply assembly 20 disclosed herein provide a dual composition water potential or water movement tendency intended to supply water to the electrolyte compound 130. For example, water may be driven into the electrolyte solution based on (i) diffusion—moving water particles from a higher concentration within the reservoir 100 to a lower concentration within the electrolyte compound 130—and (ii) gravity—applying a downward force on the water within the reservoir 100. These driving forces can cooperate to efficiently maintain the target water content within the electrolyte compound 130, thereby improving the maintenance and operation of the permanent reference electrode 22.

[0060] Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C Schematic cross-sectional, side, and perspective views of an example cap 50 of an example electrode water supply assembly 20 providing enhanced maintenance for a permanent reference electrode are shown. The illustrated embodiment of the cap 50 includes a cap body 200 having three main sections sequentially defined along a longitudinal axis 202: a distal tubular section 210, a shoulder section 212, and a proximal tubular section 214. In this embodiment, the distal tubular section 210 includes a first inner diameter 216, the proximal tubular section 214 includes a second inner diameter 218, and the shoulder section 212 includes varying diameters with slopes between the first inner diameter 216 and the second inner diameter 218. Although the illustrated shoulder section 212 has a generally uniformly sloped wall, other embodiments of the shoulder section 212 may include a non-constant slope forming curved walls. In some embodiments, the cap body 200 of the cap 50 may be formed from a resilient waterproof material (such as plastic or resin) through a suitable manufacturing process, which may include injection molding and / or 3D printing.

[0061] In some embodiments, the cap body 200 is shown as having a hollow portion with an open volume defining a reservoir 100 for receiving water from a conduit. The reservoir 100 is sized to hold a desired amount of water suitable for rewetting the electrolyte compound and improving the operation of the associated permanent reference electrode. In some embodiments, the volume of the reservoir 100 may be calculated and constructed based on the physical dimensions and / or chemical composition of the permanent reference electrode. For example, the reservoir 100 may be provided with volumes of 10 mL, 25 mL, 50 mL, 100 mL, 150 mL, 200 mL, 500 mL, etc. In some embodiments, the reservoir 100 may include a volume for providing appropriate storage of water for at least partially sustained on the permanent reference electrode for a predetermined threshold time, such as 1 hour, 12 hours, 24 hours, 1 week, 1 month, etc. By providing an extended period of in-situ, targeted rewetting of the electrolyte compound based on a single application of water to the conduit at a test station on the ground, the reservoir 100 significantly improves the maintenance operation of the permanent reference electrode compared to any other rewetting process.

[0062] Looking at the cap body 200 in more detail, its distal tubular section 210 is generally sized and shaped to connect to the proximal electrode of the permanent reference electrode discussed above, and to hold water against the proximal electrode. Thus, the distal tubular section 210 includes a distal opening 102 defined therethrough, as shown, having a circular shape. As discussed above, the inner surface 114 of the distal tubular section 210 may further include a receiving groove 112 defined therein to facilitate positioning of the sealing element within the cap 50. In some embodiments, the inner surface 114 of the distal tubular section 210 may snap-fit ​​onto the permanent reference electrode, for example, by providing a restricted diameter based on the receiving groove 112 and its gasket, through which the circumferential lip of the proximal electrode may be snapped and held.

[0063] In some embodiments, the inner surface 114 of the distal tubular section 210 may also include one or more positioning protrusions 230 or guides of suitable shape for guiding the manual or automatic placement of the cap 50 onto the permanent reference electrode. For example, an assembler may push the cap 50 onto the permanent reference electrode 22 until the distal surface 232 of one or more positioning protrusions 230 engages or abuts the proximal surface of the permanent reference electrode. In some embodiments, one or more positioning protrusions 230 may be spaced a predetermined distance 236 from the distal surface 234 of the distal tubular section 210 along the longitudinal axis 202, thereby ensuring that the permanent reference electrode can be reliably guided into the cap 50 at a distance substantially equal to the predetermined distance 236.

[0064] Furthermore, the illustrated embodiment of the cap 50 includes six discrete positioning protrusions 230 or guides evenly distributed along the circumference of the inner surface 114, which may be defined along the circumferential axis 240. In the embodiment, any suitable number of positioning protrusions 230 can be provided in any suitable arrangement—including an equal or unequal distribution along the circumference of the inner surface 114. Moreover, when configured as discrete elements spaced apart in the circumferential space, the volume occupied by the positioning protrusions 230 within the cap 50 may be smaller than that of a continuous protrusion extending across a longer portion of the inner circumference of the distal tubular section 210. Thus, for a given size cap 50, the increased open volume provided by the tapered and / or discrete positioning protrusions 230 can increase the capacity of the reservoir 100 to hold water, while further providing reliable assembly guidance for the uniform and accurate placement of the cap 50.

[0065] Furthermore, the proximal surface of certain permanent reference electrodes may be sealed with epoxy resin or other suitable materials, which reduces or prevents fluid inflow into the proximal surface. In some embodiments, one or more circumferential gaps defined between discrete or circumferentially spaced positioning protrusions 230 thus provide one or more flow paths to efficiently guide fluid across the sealed proximal surface and into the side surface of the permanent reference electrode for rewetting. In some embodiments, the distal tubular section 210 may include a single positioning protrusion 230 extending wholly or partially around the circumference of the inner surface 114, provided that an opening or gap is defined by the single positioning protrusion 230 to allow fluid to enter the unsealed surface of the permanent reference electrode 22, such as the side surface.

[0066] In some embodiments, the positioning protrusion 230 may include an angled or tapered shape or cross-section, such as a right-angled triangle or an irregular quadrilateral with one or more right angles. Compared to non-tapered protrusions, the amount of open space within the cap 50 can be increased by making the positioning protrusion 230 tapered. In some embodiments, the angled or tapered shape increases the ease of manufacturing the cap 50, such as via 3D printing or injection molding.

[0067] Moving along the cap body 200, a shoulder section 212 may be integrally formed between the distal tubular section 210 and the proximal tubular portion 214 to transition between their respective inner diameters 216, 218. The shoulder section 212 of the illustrated embodiment also includes an overflow port 250 that traverses the cap body 200, thereby providing an outlet for excess fluid directed into the reservoir 100 to flow out. For example, the electrode water supply assembly 20 may generally be waterproof or sealed at each point located distal or downstream of the proximal end of the conduit. Thus, the overflow port 250 of some embodiments allows the electrode water supply assembly 20 to release more water or overflow fluid than intended for rewetting the electrolyte, which might otherwise stagnate within the cap 50 or the conduit connected thereto. In some embodiments, the overflow port 250 may desiccate some water to the soil or filler surrounding the permanent reference electrode. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the overflow port 250 can facilitate the venting of gases generated during the operation of the permanent reference electrode. Other embodiments for wetting the surface and / or venting gases are discussed below. In embodiments, in addition to or as an alternative to the shoulder section 212, the proximal tubular section 214 may include the overflow port 250.

[0068] Furthermore, the proximal tubular portion 214 includes a proximal opening 132 for guiding an electrical conductor from a permanent reference electrode and a distal conduit end for receiving a conduit. Thus, the inner diameter 216 of the proximal tubular section 214 can be smaller than the inner diameter 218 of the distal tubular section 210 to more closely approximate the combined dimensions of the electrical conductor and the conduit. That is, some embodiments of the proximal opening 132 include an opening area smaller than the distal opening 102 of the cap 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal opening 132 has an elliptical or oval shape, which is particularly suitable for receiving two tubular components. For example, the elliptical shape of the proximal opening 132 may include two adjacent focal points for receiving the electrical conductor and the conduit, respectively. As another example, the proximal opening 132 may include an opening width and an opening length greater than the opening width. This configuration improves the proximal tubular portion 214 as referenced above. Figures 2A-2C The sealing capabilities of the sealing elements discussed (such as heat shrinkable tape) are described.

[0069] Figure 4A and Figure 4BThese are top and bottom perspective views of an example cap assembly 270 having a cap 50 and a gasket 110, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the cap 50 is formed of a translucent plastic material, which provides visibility of the reservoir 100 and any water therein. This visibility can be utilized during a testing procedure in which water is added to the reservoir 100 and leakage and / or performance of the associated electrode water supply assembly is tested. In some embodiments, the gasket 110 may be placed within the cap 50 before the cap 50 is attached to a permanent reference electrode. The cap 50 also includes a distal opening 102 and a proximal opening 132 having circular and elliptical shapes, respectively.

[0070] Figure 5A This is a side perspective view of an example electrode water supply assembly 280 mounted on an example permanent reference electrode 22 and including an empty reservoir 100. Figure 5B This is a side perspective view of an example electrode water supply assembly 280 with reservoir 100 filled with fluid 282. As shown, the electrode water supply assembly 280 includes: a cap 50 positioned on a permanent reference electrode 22; a conduit 52 connected to the cap 50; and an electrical conductor 44 extending from the permanent reference electrode 22, through the cap 50, and then adjacent to the conduit 52. A gasket 110 is shown within the cap 50 to provide a waterproof seal between the cap 50 and the permanent reference electrode 22. Furthermore, a sealing element 284 is provided around the junction between the cap 50, the electrical conductor 44, and the conduit 52. The fluid 282 added to the reservoir 100 within the cap 50 can thus remain above and in contact with the permanent reference electrode 22 for a period of time to maintain the operation of the electrolyte compounds therein.

[0071] Figure 6This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an example electrode water supply assembly 20 mounted on an example permanent reference electrode 22. The electrode water supply assembly 20 is shown as including a conduit 52, a gasket 110, and a dual-chamber cap 300, each located in its respective mounting position. In some embodiments, the dual-chamber cap 300 includes all or part of the functionality of the cap 50 discussed above. For example, the outer wall 302 of the dual-chamber cap 300 may include a distal tubular section 210, a shoulder section 212, and a proximal tubular section 214. The gasket 110 may be retained within the receiving groove 112 of the distal tubular section 210 to enhance the seal between the dual-chamber cap 300 and the proximal electrode terminal 46 of the permanent reference electrode 22. Furthermore, some embodiments include positioning protrusions 230 defined on the inner surface 114 of the distal tubular section 210. In the illustrated mounting position, the distal surface 232 of the positioning protrusion 230 is in physical contact or abutment with the proximal surface 134 of the permanent reference electrode 22. In some embodiments, a predetermined distance 236 along the longitudinal axis 202 between the distal surface 232 of the positioning protrusion 230 and the distal surface 234 of the distal tubular section 210 can thus be used to reliably establish the target insertion depth of the permanent reference electrode 22 into the dual-chamber cap 300. Furthermore, some embodiments include snap-fit ​​fasteners on the inner surface 114 of the distal tubular section 210 and the permanent reference electrode 22, such as snap-fit ​​fasteners on the confined diameter 310 of the dual-chamber cap 300 onto the circumferential lip 312 of the permanent reference electrode 22.

[0072] Similar to the discussion above, the dual-chamber cap 300 may include a reservoir 100 that holds a volume of water against the proximal surface 134 of the permanent reference electrode 22. Furthermore, current embodiments of the dual-chamber cap 300 include an annular channel 320 that at least partially overlaps the reservoir 100 along a radial axis 322 and a longitudinal axis 202. In embodiments, the annular channel 320 may overlap the reservoir 100 along the radial axis 322, the longitudinal axis 202, or both. Overlapping provides a more compact form factor for the electrode water supply assembly 20 compared to less overlapping assemblies. Additionally, in some embodiments, the annular channel 320 may be at least partially offset from the reservoir 100 along the radial axis 322, such that the reservoir 100 occupies the most central space within the dual-chamber cap 300. In some embodiments, a partition wall 330 (i.e., a baffle) or internal barrier extends from the inner surface of the distal tubular section 210 of the cap body 200 to the proximal tubular portion 214. The partition wall 330 may include any suitable shape for channeling water, such as the shape shown having a constant slope portion 332 that transitions into the upright neck portion 334.

[0073] In some embodiments, one or more inner orifices 340 may be formed through the partition wall 330 to fluidly connect the upstream portion of the reservoir 100 to the annular channel 320. In some embodiments, the inner orifices 340 are positioned relative to the longitudinal axis 202 at the proximal portion of the partition wall 330 to provide sufficient volume to the reservoir 100. Additionally, some embodiments include one or more outer orifices 342 formed through the outer wall 302 of the double-chamber cap 300. The outer orifices 342 may be positioned relative to the longitudinal axis 202 at the furthest point of the annular channel 320, thereby reducing the chance of stagnation within the annular channel 320. In other words, in some embodiments of the annular channel 320, water is not retained therein, but rather guided by gravity through the outer orifices 342. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the outer orifices 342 may release vented gas from the reservoir 100 by allowing air to escape and displace to allow water flow.

[0074] Now consider the water flow path through the electrode water supply assembly 20. Water can initially be supplied to the electrode water supply assembly 20 via conduit 52 and travel to the reservoir 100, which is fluidly connected to conduit 52. As discussed above, the water in the reservoir 100 can thus rewet the electrolyte compound 130 of the permanent reference electrode 22. In an embodiment, in response to a threshold volume of water filling the reservoir 100, water can flow through the inner orifice 340 of the partition wall 330 and into the annular channel 320. This overflow of water can further travel to the outer orifice 342 of the outer wall 302 and into the surrounding environment 350 of the soil or filler. Thus, the dual-chamber cap 300 can supply moisture to the surrounding environment 350 to improve or maintain the reliability of measurements taken via the permanent reference electrode 22 installed in the surrounding environment 350, while rewetting the electrolyte compound 130 fluidly connected to the reservoir 100. In fact, the dual-chamber cap 300 described herein, which includes the reservoir 100 and the annular channel 320, provides two partially overlapping water flow paths: a first flow path from the conduit 52 into the reservoir 100 and into the electrolyte compound 130, and a second flow path from the conduit 52 into the reservoir 100, into the annular channel 320, and into the surrounding environment 350.

[0075] Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 7CSchematic cross-sectional, side, and perspective views of an example dual-chamber cap 300 of the example electrode water supply assembly 20 are shown, respectively. As discussed above, the dual-chamber cap 300 may include a reservoir 100 and an annular channel 320 for receiving and directing fluid to a permanent reference electrode and its surrounding environment. The dual-chamber cap 300 includes an outer wall 302 having a distal tubular section 210, a shoulder section 212, and a proximal tubular section 214. The distal tubular section 210 includes a distal opening 102 therethrough for receiving and coupling to the permanent reference electrode, and the proximal tubular section 214 includes a proximal opening 132 therethrough for receiving and coupling to an electrical conductor and / or conduit. In some embodiments, the proximal opening 132 includes an oval shape (…). Figure 7C This reduces the open space between the double-chamber cap 300, the electrical conductor, and the conduit.

[0076] The dual-chamber cap 300 also includes a partition wall 330 positioned to separate the reservoir 100 from the annular channel 320. In some embodiments, the partition wall 330 includes an upright neck portion 334 and a constant slope portion 332, but other suitable shapes may be provided. In some embodiments, the slope or angle of the partition wall 330 may substantially approximate the slope or angle of the shoulder section 212. As discussed above, the partition wall 330 may include one or more inner holes 340 formed therein to fluidly connect an upstream portion of the reservoir 100 to the annular channel 320. Furthermore, the outer wall 302 may include one or more outer holes 342 formed therein to fluidly connect a downstream portion of the annular channel 320 to the environment. In the illustrated embodiment, the dual-chamber cap 300 includes three inner holes 340 and six outer holes 342 (…). Figure 7C These holes are evenly distributed on the respective circumferences of the upright neck portion 334 of the partition wall 330 and the distal tubular section 210 of the outer wall 302. By evenly distributing the holes 340, 342, the dual-chamber cap 300 provides reliable fluid flow to the annular channel 320 and therefore the surrounding environment. In embodiments, any suitable number of holes can be provided in any shape or configuration to achieve adequate fluid flow.

[0077] Therefore, the dual-chamber cap 300 is intended to include two partially overlapping water flow paths: a first flow path from the conduit 52 into the reservoir 100 and to the permanent reference electrode, and a second flow path from the conduit 52 into the reservoir 100, into the annular channel 320, and into the material surrounding the permanent reference electrode. In an embodiment, the dual-chamber cap 300 also includes a receiving groove 112 for receiving the gasket discussed above and a positioning protrusion 230 for facilitating the positioning of the dual-chamber cap 300 at a target location on the permanent reference electrode.

[0078] Figure 8A and Figure 8BFurther views of the example dual-chamber cap 300 are shown, such as a side perspective view and a side sectional view, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the dual-chamber cap 300 includes a reservoir 100 and an annular channel 320 longitudinally positioned between a distal opening 102 and a proximal opening 132—which respectively comprise circular and elliptical shapes. A partition wall 330 includes an inner aperture 340 to provide a flow path between the reservoir 100 and the annular channel 320. Additionally, an outer wall 302 includes an outer aperture 342 to provide a flow path between the annular channel 320 and the surrounding environment. Some embodiments of the dual-chamber cap 300 also include the receiving groove 112 and positioning protrusion 230 discussed above.

[0079] Figure 9A and Figure 9B Schematic side and perspective views of an example electrode water supply assembly 400 are shown, respectively. In some embodiments, the electrode water supply assembly 400 is adapted for horizontal mounting. As described above, the permanent reference electrode 22 may include a body 42 having a proximal electrode 46 and a distal electrode 126. The body 42 may include or be formed of one or more porous materials that retain electrolyte compounds and electrodes therein. In some embodiments, the electrode water supply assembly 400 includes a cap 50 that fits onto the proximal electrode 46 of the permanent reference electrode 22 to position a reservoir thereon. In some embodiments, the cap 50 includes a distal tubular section 210 having a distal opening for receiving the proximal electrode 46, a shoulder section 212, and a proximal tubular section 214 having a proximal opening. An electrical conductor 44 may extend from the proximal electrode 46, through the distal opening, through the reservoir defined within the cap 50, and through the proximal opening. Additionally, as discussed above, conduit 52 may extend from the reservoir, through the proximal opening, and together with electrical conductor 44, extend to the test station.

[0080] Some embodiments disclosed herein may include a permanent reference electrode mounted in a vertical configuration, such that the longitudinal axis of the permanent reference electrode is substantially aligned with gravity 402. However, it should be understood that embodiments of the electrode supply assembly disclosed herein are not limited to a specific mounting orientation. In some embodiments, the permanent reference electrode 22 may be aligned in a horizontal configuration, wherein the longitudinal axis 202 of the permanent reference electrode 22 is substantially orthogonal to or cross-shaped with gravity 402. For example, the permanent reference electrode 22 may be mounted in a horizontal configuration where vertical space (such as under a structure or tank) may be limited. In some embodiments, the permanent reference electrode 22 may also be mounted in any suitable angled or inclined configuration, depending on the parameters or specifications of the installation site.

[0081] For improved horizontal installations, the electrode water supply assembly 400 may include an extension conduit 404 or an adapter for redirecting fluid flow toward the body 42 of the permanent reference electrode 22. In some embodiments, the extension conduit 404 is or includes a suitable length of the same material or tubing as the conduit 52, such as a flexible material or tubing. In some embodiments, the electrode water supply assembly 400 is installed on the ground, in backfill, or in the surrounding environment, with the extension conduit 404 aligned with or above the body 42. Thus, fluid can be directed from the test station, through the conduit 52, through the cap 50, through the extension conduit 404, and onto the body 42, thereby rewetting the electrolyte compound within the body 42. In some embodiments, the extension conduit 404 may be configured with a target length that allows it to supply fluid to or near the longitudinal midpoint of the body 42, resulting in a more uniform distribution of fluid within the electrolyte compound. Extension conduit 404 may include extension conduit inlet 406, which is fluidly connected to overflow port 250 to receive fluid or overflow fluid from the reservoir, such as a flow rate or volume of fluid above a threshold volume or threshold pressure. Additionally, in some embodiments, extension conduit 404 includes extension conduit outlet 408 for supplying overflow fluid to body 42 and / or its surrounding backfill.

[0082] The extension conduit 404 can be efficiently mounted on the cap 50, such as via connecting or fluidly coupling the extension conduit 404 to the overflow port 250 of the cap 50. In some embodiments, as discussed above, the overflow port 250 may be formed in the shoulder section 212 of the cap 50 or in the distal tubular section 210 of the cap 50. Thus, in embodiments where the overflow port 250 is formed through the shoulder section 212, the extension conduit 404 may include a curved conduit portion 410 extending from the overflow port 250 to the upward-facing surface 412 of the distal tubular section 210 of the cap 50. Figure 9B The extension conduit 404 may further include a straight conduit portion 414 fluidly coupled to the curved conduit portion 410. The straight conduit portion 414 may be specifically positioned and / or arranged to guide fluid flow 418 onto the body 42 of the permanent reference electrode 22. In some embodiments, the curved conduit portion 410 and the straight conduit portion 414 are integrally formed as a single component. In some embodiments, the curved conduit portion 410 and the straight conduit portion 414 are separate components joined together. It should be understood that the illustrated example of the extension conduit 404 is non-limiting, and the extension conduit 404 may be given other suitable dimensions, shapes, volumes, etc.

[0083] Additionally, in some embodiments, the extension conduit 404 may be fastened to the distal tubular section 210 of the cap 50 to increase the structural integrity of the electrode water supply assembly 400 and prevent the extension conduit 404 from dislodging during installation and / or operation. For example, some embodiments may include an adhesive or epoxy resin positioned between the abutment surfaces of the cap 50 and the extension conduit 404. In some embodiments, a tie, band, or wrapping is circumferentially wrapped around the cap 50 and the extension conduit 404 to hold them together. In some embodiments, the extension conduit 404 is held in its target position based on its connection to the overflow port 250. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the fluid connection between the extension conduit 404 and the overflow port 250 may be fluidly sealed using heat-shrinkable tape or other suitable fluid barriers. Additionally, some embodiments may include an extension conduit 404 integrally formed with the cap 50 (e.g., via an injection molding process).

[0084] Figure 10 A schematic side view of an example electrode water supply assembly 450 with a permanent reference electrode 22 in a horizontal configuration is shown. The electrode water supply assembly 450 includes a permanent reference electrode 22, which is mounted such that the longitudinal axis 202 is substantially orthogonal to gravity 402, as referenced above. Figure 9A and Figure 9B The discussion continues. In some embodiments, the electrode water supply assembly 450 also includes a cap 50 coupled to the permanent reference electrode 22 to keep the fluid reservoir close to the side electrode terminal 46. The illustrated embodiment of the electrode water supply assembly 450 does not include the extension conduit discussed above. Thus, in response to receiving a threshold volume of fluid, the cap 50 can discharge overflow fluid 452 from the overflow port 250. This horizontal configuration of the electrode water supply assembly 450 without the extension conduit 404 can provide an appropriate amount of fluid to the electrolyte compound within the body 42 (e.g., through the reservoir held close to the side electrode terminal by the cap 50). However, some embodiments including the extension conduit 404 can further improve the maintenance of the permanent reference electrode by optimizing or increasing the utilization of the received fluid by directing the fluid directly to the body 42 and / or its surrounding backfill.

[0085] Figures 11A-11C Some embodiments of the kit 600 for mounting the electrode water supply assembly 20 are shown. For example, in some embodiments, one or more components of the electrode water supply assembly 20 may be transported to the work site as a single kit 600 or assembly in a container 602 (such as with...). Figure 1 The structure 26 is associated with the location and its vicinity. In some embodiments, kit 600 may facilitate providing at least the target moisture content within and / or around the permanent reference electrode to improve the maintenance, operation, and reliability of the permanent reference electrode.

[0086] like Figure 11A As shown, in some embodiments, kit 600 may include one or more components of electrode water supply assembly 20. Thus, kit 600 can be used to mount or modify a permanent reference electrode to have the capability of electrode water supply assembly 20 described herein, including in-situ water supply or rewetting of electrolyte material within the permanent reference electrode and / or surrounding material outside the permanent reference electrode. Therefore, in some embodiments, kit 600 may include one or more components of electrode water supply assembly 20, including caps 50, 300, conduits 52, sealing elements 110, 284, permanent reference electrode 22, and inlet port 70. For example, in some embodiments, kit 600 may include one or more single-chamber caps 50, one or more dual-chamber caps 300, or a combination of both. In some embodiments, caps 50, 300 may be provided in various sizes or diameters to mate with permanent reference electrodes 22 of different sizes. Kit 600 in some embodiments includes one or more conduits 52 for fluid connection to caps 50, 300. In some embodiments, one or more conduits 52 may be provided in a single length that is easily segmented or cut into pieces with individualized target lengths. In some embodiments, kit 600 includes a plurality of pre-cut conduits 52 in one or more common lengths. In some embodiments, kit 600 and / or one or more of the conduits 52 therein may include one or more extension conduits 404, such as those discussed above for adapting the electrode water supply assembly to horizontal installation.

[0087] Kit 600 may also include sealing elements, such as one or more gaskets 110, one or more sealing elements 284, or a combination of both. In some embodiments, sealing element 284 includes the heat-shrinkable material or tape discussed above. Gaskets 110 and / or sealing elements 284 facilitate fluid sealing of various joints associated with the electrode supply assembly 20, including joints between a permanent reference electrode and an associated cap, joints between a cap and a conduit and / or an electrical conductor, and / or joints between conduits and any ground components to which the conduit can be connected. In embodiments, kit 600 includes one or more gaskets 110 for each cap 50, 300 of the kit. In some embodiments, gaskets 110 may be provided in a pre-installed configuration within a receiving slot of the corresponding cap. In embodiments, sealing element 284 may be provided as a separate heat-shrinkable tube, a roll of heat-shrinkable tape that can be cut to the desired size, or other suitable forms. Additionally, kit 600 in some embodiments may include one or more permanent reference electrodes 22, which may have electrical conductors, as discussed above.

[0088] Kit 600 may also include an access port 70 located at a test station. In some embodiments, the access port 70 may be permanently fixed at the test station, or optionally carried by a technician during maintenance operations. In some embodiments, kit 600 may also include other features for supplying water to conduit 52 at the test station, such as retaining caps, pressurizing containers, or water sources. In some embodiments, kit 600 may also include additional components to facilitate the installation and / or use of the electrode water supply assembly. For example, in some embodiments, the container 602 of kit 600 may include a schematic or diagram 606 for installing or assembling the electrode water supply assembly or its components or subassemblies.

[0089] Kit 600 may include any suitable combination of these or other suitable components. For example, in some embodiments, kit 600 may include more than Figure 11A The diagram shows fewer or additional components. As a specific example implementation, Figure 11B The container 602 includes three caps 50 and 300, three gaskets 110, a conduit 52, a sealing element 284, and an inlet port 70, each positioned within the container 602. The inlet port 70 is shown as a funnel in the current embodiment. Additionally, the conduit 52 is shown as a single length or a single roll and can be divided into multiple conduits 52 of one or more target lengths. Similarly, in the illustrated embodiment, the sealing element 284 is a roll of heat-shrinkable tape that can be divided into portions and provided to seal the connection between the caps 50 and 300 and the corresponding conduit 52. Thus, Figure 11B The kit 600 can be used to efficiently mount caps 50, 300 and conduit 52 onto three corresponding permanent reference electrodes.

[0090] As another example, Figure 11C A container 602 is shown, having two sub-containers 610 positioned within it. For example, in some embodiments, container 602 may include a box or bag, and the sub-containers 610 may include a smaller box or bag within container 602. Each sub-container 610 is shown including caps 50, 300, and a conduit 52 therein. Thus, each sub-container 610 may correspond to a water supply assembly for converting a separate permanent reference electrode into one with in-situ water supply capability. Furthermore, it should be understood that in other embodiments, other combinations of components are considered for use in kit 600.

[0091] Figure 12This is a block diagram of an example method 800 for installing an electrode water supply assembly according to embodiments of this disclosure (such as those described herein and other embodiments). Example method 800 is shown as a set of blocks in a logic flowchart representing a sequence of operations. The order in which these operations are described is not intended to be construed as limiting, and any number of the described blocks can be combined in any order and / or in parallel to implement method 800.

[0092] In some embodiments, the electrode water supply assembly 20 may include a conduit 52 and a cap 50 or a dual-chamber cap 300, which are provided to improve the operation of the permanent reference electrode 22. In some embodiments, the electrode water supply assembly 20 includes an extension conduit for improving maintenance operations of a horizontally mounted permanent reference electrode 22. In some embodiments, the electrode water supply assembly 20 may be retrofitted to a previously supplied or purchased permanent reference electrode 22. However, the components of the electrode water supply assembly 20 and the permanent reference electrode 22 may be supplied and assembled in any suitable order. The following discussion of examples for mounting the electrode water supply assembly 20 is based on an example scenario where the components of the electrode water supply assembly 20 (including caps 50, 300, conduit 52, and the permanent reference electrode 22 with electrical conductors extending from it) have been supplied and are accessible to the assembler. In some embodiments, providing caps 50, 300 includes 3D printing or injection molding their cap bodies from a suitable rigid material (such as plastic or resin).

[0093] At block 802, example method 800 includes mounting a cap with a distal opening on a proximal electrode of a permanent reference electrode, the permanent reference electrode including a distal conductor end of an electrical conductor coupled thereto. For example, in some embodiments, the proximal conductor end of the electrical conductor coupled to or integral with the permanent reference electrode may pass through the cap, and the cap may then be movable or slid along the length of the electrical conductor until the cap is coupled to the permanent reference electrode. In some embodiments, the electrical conductor may initially be provided separately from the permanent reference electrode, and the cap may be coupled to the permanent reference electrode by inserting the distal conductor end of the electrical conductor through the cap, thereby coupling the electrical conductor to the permanent reference electrode, and then coupling the cap to the permanent reference electrode.

[0094] At block 804, example method 800 includes fluidly coupling a distal end of a conduit to a proximal opening of a cap. For example, in some embodiments, the conduit may be fluidly coupled to the cap by inserting the distal end of the conduit into the proximal opening by at least a threshold distance. At block 806, example method 800 includes applying a sealing element around an electrical conductor and a conduit at the proximal opening of the cap. As discussed above, the sealing element in some embodiments may include a heat-shrinkable tape or tube that can be heated until a desired, reduced-size heat-shrinkable tape is formed and seals the proximal opening of the cap.

[0095] At block 808, example method 800 includes mounting a permanent reference electrode at a target underground location, wherein a cap and a conduit are coupled to the proximal electrode end of the permanent reference electrode. In some embodiments, the permanent reference electrode may be mounted in a vertical or horizontal configuration. In embodiments where the permanent reference electrode is in a horizontal configuration, an extension conduit may be coupled to an overflow port of the cap to direct any overflow fluid to the porous membrane of the permanent reference electrode. At block 810, example method 800 includes positioning the proximal conduit end of the conduit and the proximal conductor end of the electrical conductor at a test station. In some embodiments, the proximal conduit end and the proximal conductor end may be positioned at the test station before the permanent reference electrode is placed at the target underground location. Some embodiments include maintaining close proximity between the conduit and the electrical conductor such that they extend substantially parallel to each other over all or most of the underground distance covered by the conduit and the electrical conductor. In some embodiments, the conduit and the electrical conductor may be in contact with each other or secured together via fasteners such as cable ties.

[0096] At box 812, example method 800 includes the operation of directing fluid to the proximal end of the conduit and the reservoir of the cap to maintain the permanent reference electrode. As discussed above, the cap in some embodiments also includes an annular channel fluidly connected to the surrounding environment for wetting the soil or packing material in which the permanent reference electrode is mounted. In some embodiments, the methods and assemblies disclosed herein enable in-situ, directional rewetting of the electrolyte within the permanent reference electrode through maintenance operations easily performed at an on-ground test station.

[0097] Figure 13 This is a block diagram of an example method 850 for installing and using an electrode water supply assembly, according to embodiments of this disclosure (such as those described herein and other embodiments). Example method 850 is shown as a collection of blocks in a logic flowchart representing a sequence of operations. The order in which these operations are described is not intended to be construed as limiting, and any number of the described blocks can be combined in any order and / or in parallel to implement method 850. Additionally, some embodiments include a controller having a processor to perform all or part of the steps of example method 850.

[0098] At block 852, example method 850 includes attaching a cap of the electrode supply assembly to a permanent reference electrode. As discussed above, the cap may include one or more chambers, such as a reservoir or a reservoir and annular chamber. In some embodiments, the cap may pass through or traverse an electrical conductor extending from the permanent reference electrode until the cap is positioned on one end of the permanent reference electrode. The cap can thus be positioned to provide a reservoir of electrolyte compounds in close proximity to the permanent reference electrode.

[0099] At box 854, example method 850 includes installing a conduit between the cap and a test station (such as an above-ground test station for monitoring cathodic protection). In some embodiments, the permanent reference electrode is in a horizontal configuration, and an extension conduit is installed between the overflow port of the cap and the body of the permanent reference electrode to guide overflow fluid to the body. As discussed above, the joints between the various components of the electrode water supply assembly can be sealed via any suitable component, such as gaskets and / or heat-shrinkable material. In some embodiments, a controller may be provided to control the assembly and / or operation of the electrode water supply assembly. The controller may be as described above. Figure 1 The controller 80, a separate manufacturing controller, or any other suitable control device is described and further described below. In some embodiments, the controller may instruct one or more actuators, robotic arms, or assembly line devices to pre-install caps and / or conduits on the permanent reference electrode before it is positioned underground.

[0100] At block 856, example method 850 includes performing one or more tests from a test station. In one embodiment, performing the tests includes measuring the voltage of a permanent reference electrode via a voltage measuring device. Measurements obtained based on the permanent reference electrode can be used to verify or evaluate cathodic protection of the structure. In some embodiments, the tests may facilitate the identification of any degradation in the accuracy or quality of the measurements of the permanent reference electrode. In this case and / or in advance at regular intervals, the permanent reference electrode can be efficiently rewetted using an electrode water supply assembly.

[0101] In implementation, one or more tests may be based on data from the controller (as referenced above). Figure 1 The controller 80 described is executed according to its instructions. Additionally, the controller can provide instructions to perform tests on any suitable sensors in the electrode water supply system, such as voltage measuring devices, humidity sensors, etc. For example, in some embodiments, the controller can provide instructions to cause a voltage measuring device to measure the voltage of a permanent reference electrode and transmit data indicating the measurement result to the controller. In some embodiments, the controller can perform tests at regular intervals according to a predetermined schedule and / or in response to instructions received from a technician.

[0102] At block 858, example method 850 includes a controller determining whether the state of a permanent reference electrode is below a state threshold. In one implementation, the controller may determine the state of the permanent reference electrode based on one or more data points collected during a test performed at block 856. For example, in one implementation, the controller may compare the current voltage of the permanent reference electrode with a previous voltage of the permanent reference electrode. In another implementation, the controller may determine that the state of the permanent reference electrode is below a state threshold in response to a voltage change exceeding a predetermined voltage threshold. As another example, in some implementations, the controller may determine that the state of the permanent reference electrode is below a state threshold in response to determining that a humidity level determined by a humidity sensor located near the permanent reference electrode is below a predetermined humidity threshold.

[0103] In response to determining that the state of the permanent reference electrode is below a state threshold, at block 860, example method 850 includes a controller supplying water to the permanent reference electrode from a test station, such as through a conduit of the electrode water supply assembly to a cap of the electrode water supply assembly and to the permanent reference electrode. As provided herein, the electrode water supply assembly improves the operation of the permanent reference electrode by enabling efficient maintenance of electrolyte compounds in the permanent reference electrode from the test station. In some embodiments, the controller may execute block 860 by instructing an actuator of the electrode water supply assembly to supply water to the permanent reference electrode. As discussed above, the actuator may thus cause fluid from a fluid source to flow through the conduit, into the cap, and to the permanent reference electrode.

[0104] In response to determining that the state of the permanent reference electrode is above a state threshold, the controller may proceed to return to block 856 to continue performing tests and maintenance on the permanent reference electrode. Thus, in some embodiments, one or more tests in block 856 can be easily repeated after the permanent reference electrode has been water-supplied. Some embodiments may include using the electrode water supply assembly at regular intervals (e.g., weekly, monthly, yearly, etc.) to rewet or moisten the electrolyte compound of the permanent reference electrode. Additionally or alternatively, some embodiments include rewetting or moistening the permanent reference electrode in response to detecting a predetermined threshold change in voltage or other cathodic standard or parameter associated with the permanent reference electrode. Therefore, the electrode water supply assembly can be used with the permanent reference electrode to facilitate long-term, convenient maintenance and / or monitoring of the cathodic protection system.

[0105] As further explanation, Figure 14This is a block diagram of an example method 900 for controlling an electrode water supply system to improve the maintenance and operation of a permanent reference electrode, according to embodiments of this disclosure (such as those described herein and other embodiments). Example method 900 is shown as a collection of blocks in a logic flowchart representing a sequence of operations. The order in which these operations are described is not intended to be construed as limiting, and any number of the described blocks can be combined in any order and / or in parallel to implement method 900. Additionally, some embodiments include a controller having a processor to perform all or part of the steps of example method 900, such as... Figure 1 The controller 80 is introduced in the text and further described below.

[0106] At box 902, example method 900 includes receiving sensor data indicating a cathodic protection standard. In some embodiments, the sensor data is received from a structure (such as...) Figure 1 The sensor data is collected during the monitoring of cathodic protection in structure 26). Sensor data may include signals and / or data received from one or more appropriate sensors in the electrode water supply system, including the permanent reference electrode itself, the cathodic protection system, the electrical system, humidity sensors, pH sensors, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, voltage sensors, etc., located near the permanent reference electrode or cathodic protection structure. In practice, sensor data may include any appropriate combination of one or more operating parameters or test data that the controller can use to monitor the operation of the permanent reference electrode.

[0107] At block 904, example method 900 includes determining whether sensor data indicates a decline in the functionality or operation of a permanent reference electrode. For example, in response to the permanent reference electrode providing measurements exceeding an expected measurement threshold and / or including a rate of change exceeding an expected rate of change threshold, a controller in some embodiments may determine that the sensor data indicates a decline in electrode functionality. In response to the permanent reference electrode having a current operating state below a threshold operating state, a controller in some embodiments may determine that the sensor data indicates a decline in electrode functionality. As another example, in some embodiments, in response to sensor data indicating that a humidity level associated with or measured near the permanent reference electrode is below a predetermined humidity level threshold, the controller may determine that the sensor data indicates a decline in electrode functionality.

[0108] In response to determining that sensor data indicates a decline in electrode function, at block 906, example method 900 includes instructing one or more actuators to provide fluid to rewet the permanent reference electrode. As discussed above, one or more actuators of the electrode water supply system can thus cause fluid from a fluid source to flow through conduits of the electrode water supply assembly, to the cap of the electrode water supply assembly, and to the permanent reference electrode as an efficient maintenance operation. Rewetting can thus automatically restore or maintain the normal operation of the permanent reference electrode after a decline in function is detected or predicted. In one embodiment, method 900 includes returning to block 902 to continue receiving sensor data associated with the operation of the permanent reference electrode.

[0109] In response to determining that sensor data does not indicate a decline in electrode functionality, at block 908, example method 900 includes determining whether a threshold time has elapsed since the last electrode rewetting. In embodiments, the threshold time may include any appropriate period of time for periodic rewetting of a permanent reference electrode to improve its operation. In some embodiments, the threshold time may be individually programmed within the controller of the electrode water supply system and / or set based on the dryness of the associated environment. As a non-limiting example, the threshold time may be set to 1 day, 7 days, 14 days, 30 days, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, etc., with shorter threshold times selected for regions associated with higher environmental dryness. In some embodiments, the controller may determine and / or adjust the threshold time based on previous operation of the electrode water supply system. In some embodiments, the threshold time may be manually set or adjusted by a technician.

[0110] In response to determining that a threshold time has elapsed since the previous electrode rewetting, example method 900 includes instructing one or more actuators to provide fluid to rewet a permanent reference electrode, as provided in block 906. In some embodiments, performing rewetting in block 906 resets the threshold time in block 908, making the electrode water supply system ready or immediately ready to perform targeted maintenance operations at future predetermined intervals.

[0111] In response to determining that a threshold time has not elapsed since the previous electrode rewetting, at block 910, example method 900 includes determining whether input indicating that electrode rewetting is required has been received. For example, in some implementations, the controller may receive user input indicating that electrode rewetting is required from any suitable user interface, such as a mobile device signaling to the controller. Reference below Figure 15Further, non-example, discussions of suitable user interfaces are provided. In some implementations, the controller may also receive one or more credentials from the user interface and analyze the credentials to determine whether the user is authorized to interact with the electrode water supply system before performing electrode rewetting. As an example, the user may provide an identification number, password, username, or other data that the controller can use to compare with a data store or database of authorized credentials.

[0112] In response to determining that an input indicating the need for electrode rewetting has been received, example method 900 may proceed to block 906 to instruct the actuator to provide fluid to rewet the permanent reference electrode. In response to determining that no input indicating the need for electrode rewetting has been received, or that the input has been received without corresponding credentials, example method 900 may return to block 902 to continue receiving sensor data associated with the operation of the permanent reference electrode.

[0113] In some implementations, the controller may also generate a log that includes data on each time the electrode water supply system supplies fluid to the permanent reference electrode. The controller may analyze the log to determine and implement further improvements to the electrode water supply system, such as adjustments to threshold time, the amount of fluid supplied at block 906, or other parameters associated with electrode maintenance. Furthermore, method 900 may execute the determinations of blocks 904, 908, and 910 in any suitable order. For example, some implementations may include executing each determination of blocks 904, 908, and 910 in parallel to provide robust and multifaceted maintenance to the permanent reference electrode. Thus, a controller executing method 900 may coordinate multiple determinations, subsystems, or modules to provide efficient, targeted maintenance actions to the permanent reference electrode, thereby extending its service life.

[0114] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of an example control system 1000 for an electrode water supply system 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the control system 1000 may include a controller (such as controller 80 discussed above), which includes one or more processors and one or more memories. In some embodiments, controller 80 includes various modules, subsystems, or instructions for performing appropriate control actions within the electrode water supply system 10. For example, the illustrated embodiment of controller 80 includes a sensing module 1002, an analysis module 1004, a water supply module 1006, and a communication module 1008. It should be understood that the illustrated arrangement and components of the modules of controller 80 are non-limiting examples, and the modules may be combined and / or rearranged within controller 80 in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the modules of controller 80 may cooperate to perform one or more operations described herein with reference to the electrode water supply system 10.

[0115] Looking at these modules in more detail, the sensing module 1002 may be provided to communicatively connect to the sensor 1012 of the electrode water supply system 10 to receive sensor data from it. In some embodiments, the sensor 1012 may measure or detect any suitable operating parameters, sensor data, and / or test data to facilitate monitoring of the operation of the electrode water supply system 10. For example, the sensor 1012 may collect sensor data, including voltage or other cathode standards or parameters associated with the permanent reference electrode 22, chemical properties, temperature, pressure, moisture content, and / or other properties that a person skilled in the art would understand. The sensing module 1002 may include any suitable input / output devices and / or communication devices to facilitate the collection of sensor data from the sensor 1012. In some embodiments, the sensing module 1002 may operate as a data hub that collects, assembles, and / or formats the data received from the sensor 1012 to improve the operational efficiency of other components of the controller 80.

[0116] In one implementation, the analysis module 1004 receives sensor data from the sensing module 1002. The analysis module 1004 may evaluate or analyze the sensor data to determine one or more parameters of the permanent reference electrode 22, such as operating status, humidity level, voltage, and / or any other cathodic protection criteria. In some implementations, the analysis module 1004 may include any appropriate programming, software, and / or circuitry that facilitates the determination of any appropriate control and / or maintenance actions for the permanent reference electrode. The analysis module 1004 may therefore generate instructions to coordinate the operation of the electrode water supply system based on a specific analysis of the data provided by the sensing module 1002.

[0117] In one implementation, the analysis module 1004 may provide instructions to the water supply module 1006, such as in response to determining that maintenance actions need to be performed on the permanent reference electrode 22. In the illustrated implementation, the water supply module 1006 communicates signalingly with one or more actuators 1016 of the control system 1000. As described above, the actuator 1016 may include any suitable means for rewetting the permanent reference electrode 22 with fluid from a fluid source. For example, the actuator 1016 may be operatively coupled to a fluid source at the test station 40 and may receive instructions from the water supply module 1006 to supply fluid to a conduit 52 connected to caps 50, 300 disposed on the permanent reference electrode 22. In response to these instructions, the actuator 1016 may open a valve or otherwise fluidly connect the fluid source to the conduit 52 to supply fluid to the conduit 52, caps 50, 300, and permanent reference electrode 22. In an implementation, any suitable actuator 1016 may be provided in the control system 1000 to initiate changes for improving the operation and maintenance of the permanent reference electrode 22.

[0118] In some embodiments, the controller 80 also includes a communication module 1008, which can signal-communicate with or be communicatively connected to one or more user interfaces 1018 of the control system 1000. For example, some embodiments of the user interface 1018 may include a user device such as a mobile phone, smartphone, tablet computer, laptop computer, desktop computer at a remote service station, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the user interface 1018 may include a control panel, keyboard, or other device with a test station installed. In some embodiments, the user interface 1018 also facilitates the collection of user credentials, which the controller 80 verifies to authorize and / or allow the user to control the operation of the electrode water supply system. The controller 80 may therefore receive direct instructions from the user interface to initiate maintenance actions. Thus, some embodiments of the electrode water supply system 10 disclosed herein (such as guiding fluid to rewet the permanent reference electrode 22 via the electrode water supply assembly 20 in response to a specific determination made by the controller 80) provide robust, multifaceted monitoring and maintenance of the permanent reference electrode 22.

[0119] Some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure have been described. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the foregoing is merely exemplary and not restrictive, and is presented by way of example only. Various modifications and other embodiments are within the capabilities of those skilled in the art and are considered to fall within the scope of this disclosure. Specifically, although the various examples presented herein relate to specific combinations of method actions or system elements, it should be understood that these actions and elements can be combined in other ways or configurations to achieve the same objective. Those skilled in the art will understand that the parameters and configurations described herein are exemplary, and actual parameters and / or configurations will depend on the specific application of the system, method, and / or aspect or technology using this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that equivalents of specific embodiments of this disclosure can be determined, either directly or through conventional experimentation. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described herein are given by way of example only and fall within the scope of any appended claims and their equivalents, and this disclosure can be practiced in ways other than those specifically described.

[0120] Furthermore, the scope of this disclosure should be understood to encompass various modifications, combinations, additions, and alterations to the foregoing and the described embodiments, all of which should be considered to fall within the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the various features and characteristics discussed herein can be optionally interchanged and applied to other embodiments shown and not shown, and various changes, modifications, and additions can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An electrode water supply system for maintaining cathodic monitoring of a structure at least partially underground, the electrode water supply assembly comprising: A permanent reference electrode, configured to monitor cathodic protection of the structure, and having a body and an electrode between the proximal and distal electrodes of the body; A cap includes a cap body defining a reservoir adjacent to the proximal electrode, the cap body having (i) a distal cap end defining a distal opening disposed around the proximal electrode, (ii) a proximal cap end defining the proximal opening, and (iii) an outer wall extending between the distal cap end and the proximal cap end and defining an overflow port therethrough; An electrical conductor electrically connected to the electrode, the electrical conductor extending from the proximal electrode end and passing through the distal opening, the reservoir, and the proximal opening; A conduit having a distal conduit end fluidly connected to the proximal opening and a proximal conduit end configured to be positioned at a cathode test station, such that fluid directed into the proximal conduit end is directed through the conduit and into the reservoir to supply water to the proximal electrode. and An extension conduit having an inlet fluidly connected to the overflow port and an outlet positioned above the body when the permanent reference electrode is mounted in a horizontal configuration, such that overflow fluid from the reservoir is guided through the extension conduit and directed onto the body to supply water to the body.

2. The electrode water supply system according to claim 1, wherein the permanent reference electrode comprises a solid electrolyte compound or a gel electrolyte compound between the proximal electrode and the distal electrode.

3. The electrode water supply system according to claim 1, wherein the main body comprises a porous membrane to retain electrolyte compounds therein. And wherein the porous membrane is configured to guide the overflow fluid from the extension conduit to the electrolyte compound.

4. The electrode water supply system according to claim 1, further comprising a gasket positioned between the proximal electrode end and the distal cap end to establish a waterproof seal therebetween.

5. The electrode water supply system according to claim 1, wherein the proximal opening at the proximal cap end has a smaller open area than the distal opening at the distal cap end.

6. The electrode water supply system of claim 1, further comprising a waterproof connector disposed around the overflow port to establish a waterproof seal between the extension conduit and the overflow port.

7. The electrode water supply system of claim 1, further comprising a waterproof connector disposed around the proximal cap end to establish a waterproof seal between the electrical conductor, the conduit and the proximal cap end, wherein the waterproof connector comprises a heat shrinkable tape, a gasket or a combination thereof.

8. The electrode water supply system of claim 1, wherein the cap body includes a distal tubular section having a first diameter, a proximal tubular section having a second diameter, and a shoulder section inclined between the first diameter and the second diameter, wherein the overflow port is defined through the shoulder section of the cap body.

9. An electrode water supply assembly for maintaining the operation of a permanent reference electrode used to monitor cathodic protection of a structure, the electrode water supply assembly comprising: A cap comprising a cap body of rigid material defining a reservoir adjacent to the proximal electrode of the permanent reference electrode when the cap is mounted on the permanent reference electrode, the cap body having (i) a distal cap end defining a distal opening configured to surround the proximal electrode, (ii) a proximal cap end defining the proximal opening, and (iii) an outer wall extending between the distal cap end and the proximal cap end and defining an overflow port therethrough, the overflow port being configured to receive overflow fluid from the reservoir and guide the overflow fluid outside the reservoir; and A conduit comprising a flexible material, the conduit having a distal conduit end configured to be fluidly connected to the proximal opening and a proximal conduit end configured to be positioned at a cathode test station, such that fluid directed into the proximal conduit end is directed through the conduit and into the reservoir to supply water to at least the proximal electrode.

10. The electrode water supply assembly of claim 9, wherein the reservoir is configured to maintain fluid against the proximal electrode to wet its electrolyte compound.

11. The electrode water supply assembly of claim 9, comprising an extension conduit having a first end configured to be coupled to the overflow port and a second end configured to be positioned above the body of the permanent reference electrode when the permanent reference electrode is mounted in a horizontal configuration, such that the overflow fluid is directed toward the body to wet the electrolyte compound therein.

12. The electrode water supply assembly of claim 11, wherein the extension conduit comprises the flexible material of the conduit.

13. The electrode water supply assembly of claim 9, wherein the cap is configured to guide an electrical conductor electrically connected to the permanent reference electrode through the distal opening and the proximal opening of the cap.

14. The electrode water supply assembly of claim 9, wherein the outer wall of the cap comprises: The distal tubular section includes the distal opening and a first diameter; A proximal tubular segment, comprising the proximal opening and a second diameter; and A shoulder section is positioned between the distal tubular section and the proximal tubular section to transition between the first diameter and the second diameter.

15. The electrode water supply assembly of claim 14, wherein the overflow port is defined through the proximal tubular section or the shoulder section.

16. A method for maintaining cathodic monitoring of a structure at least partially underground using an electrode water supply assembly, the method comprising: A flow of fluid is supplied from the ground test station to the proximal end of the conduit, thereby directing the fluid to the distal end of the conduit and to a reservoir within a cap surrounding a permanent reference electrode, the cap including a cap body having an outer wall and an overflow port defined through the outer wall; The electrolyte compound within the body of the permanent reference electrode is wetted with the fluid in the reservoir of the cap by the following steps: A portion of the fluid exceeding the threshold volume will be directed through the overflow port; and A portion of the fluid is guided along an extension conduit having an outlet positioned above the body of the permanent reference electrode when the permanent reference electrode is mounted in a horizontal configuration, such that a portion of the fluid is guided toward the body to wet the electrolyte compound; as well as One or more tests are performed using the permanent reference electrode to monitor cathodic protection of the structure from the ground-based test station.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the cap body includes a distal tubular section having a first diameter, a proximal tubular section having a second diameter, and a shoulder section inclined between the first diameter and the second diameter, and wherein the overflow port is defined through the shoulder section.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein supplying the fluid comprises injecting the fluid into the conduit using a jet assembly including a pressurized container.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein supplying the flow of the fluid comprises instructing an actuator via a controller to fluidly connect a fluid source to the conduit, thereby directing the flow of the fluid into the conduit.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein performing the one or more tests includes measuring the voltage of the permanent reference electrode via a voltage measuring device.

21. The method of claim 16, further comprising: The reduction in the accuracy of the permanent reference electrode is identified based on one or more of the tests mentioned above; and Additional flow of the fluid is supplied to the proximal end of the catheter to improve the accuracy of the permanent reference electrode.

22. The method of claim 16, further comprising attaching the cap to the permanent reference electrode and attaching the conduit between the cap and the ground test station prior to supplying the flow of the fluid.

23. The kit, which includes: container; One or more caps are positioned in the container, each of the one or more caps including a cap body defining a reservoir adjacent to the proximal electrode of the permanent reference electrode when the cap is mounted on a corresponding permanent reference electrode, the cap body having (i) a distal cap end defining a distal opening configured to surround the proximal electrode, (ii) a proximal cap end including the proximal opening, and (iii) an outer wall extending between the distal cap end and the proximal cap end and defining an overflow port therethrough; and One or more conduits are positioned in the container, each of the one or more conduits comprising a flexible material, each conduit having a distal conduit end configured to be fluidly coupled to the proximal opening and a proximal conduit end configured to be positioned at a cathode test station, such that fluid directed to the proximal conduit end is directed through the conduit and into the reservoir to supply water to at least the proximal electrode.

24. The kit of claim 23, wherein the cap body of each cap defines two flow paths for fluid to pass through, including a first flow path from the proximal cap end into the reservoir and to the proximal electrode and a second flow path from the proximal cap end into the reservoir and through the overflow port.

25. The kit of claim 23, comprising one or more extension catheters, each of the one or more extension catheters being configured to connect to the overflow port and having an outlet configured to be positioned above the body of the permanent reference electrode when the respective permanent reference electrode is mounted in a horizontal configuration, such that the overflow fluid is directed toward the body to wet the electrolyte compound therein.

26. The kit of claim 25, wherein the one or more extension catheters comprise the flexible material of the one or more catheters.

27. The kit of claim 23, wherein the one or more catheters comprise a single length to be segmented into a plurality of segments, each segment having a target length shorter than the single length.

28. The kit of claim 23, further comprising one or more permanent reference electrodes positioned in the container, wherein the container comprises caps in a number equal to or greater than the number of permanent reference electrodes.

29. The kit of claim 23, further comprising one or more washers configured to be positioned within the distal cap end of each cap prior to mounting each cap onto the respective permanent reference electrode.

30. The kit of claim 23, further comprising one or more sealing elements configured to seal the connection between the one or more caps and the one or more conduits.

31. An electrode water supply system for maintaining cathodic monitoring of a structure at least partially underground, said electrode water supply assembly comprising: A permanent reference electrode, configured to monitor cathodic protection of the structure, the permanent reference electrode having a proximal electrode, a distal electrode, and an electrode therebetween; A cap includes a cap body defining a reservoir adjacent to the proximal electrode, the cap body having a distal cap end defining a distal opening disposed around the proximal electrode and a proximal cap end defining the proximal opening; An electrical conductor electrically connected to the electrode, the electrical conductor extending from the proximal electrode end and passing through the distal opening, the reservoir, and the proximal opening; and A conduit having a distal conduit end fluidly connected to the proximal opening and a proximal conduit end configured to be positioned at a cathode test station, such that fluid directed to the proximal conduit end is directed through the conduit and into the reservoir to supply water to the proximal electrode.

32. The electrode water supply system of claim 31, wherein the permanent reference electrode comprises a solid electrolyte compound or a gel electrolyte compound between the proximal electrode and the distal electrode.

33. The electrode water supply system of claim 31, further comprising a gasket positioned between the proximal electrode end and the distal cap end to establish a waterproof seal therebetween.

34. The electrode water supply system of claim 31, wherein the proximal opening at the proximal cap end has a smaller open area than the distal opening at the distal cap end.

35. The electrode water supply system of claim 31, further comprising a waterproof connector disposed around the proximal cap end to establish a waterproof seal between the electrical conductor, the conduit and the proximal cap end.

36. The electrode water supply system of claim 35, wherein the waterproof connector comprises a heat shrinkable tape, a gasket, or a combination thereof.

37. The electrode water supply system of claim 31, wherein the cap body comprises a distal tubular section having a first diameter, a proximal tubular section having a second diameter, and a shoulder section inclined between the first diameter and the second diameter.

38. The electrode water supply system of claim 31, wherein the cap body includes a partition wall defining an annular channel that at least partially overlaps the reservoir along a longitudinal axis, and wherein the annular channel is configured to receive overflow fluid from the reservoir and direct the overflow fluid to the surrounding environment.

39. An electrode water supply assembly for maintaining the operation of a permanent reference electrode used to monitor cathodic protection of a structure, the electrode water supply assembly comprising: A cap comprising a cap body of rigid material, the cap body defining one or more chambers adjacent to a proximal electrode end of the permanent reference electrode when the cap is mounted on the permanent reference electrode, the cap body having a distal cap end defining a distal opening configured to be disposed around the proximal electrode end; And the proximal cap end, which defines the proximal opening; and A conduit comprising a flexible material, the conduit having a distal conduit end configured to be fluidly coupled to the proximal opening and a proximal conduit end configured to be positioned at a cathode test station, such that fluid directed into the proximal conduit end is directed through the conduit and into the one or more chambers to supply water to at least the proximal electrode.

40. The electrode water supply assembly of claim 39, wherein the one or more chambers include a reservoir configured to retain fluid against the proximal electrode to wet its electrolyte compound.

41. The electrode water supply assembly of claim 39, wherein the one or more chambers include an annular channel configured to guide fluid from an upstream portion of the cap body to the surrounding environment.

42. The electrode water supply assembly of claim 39, wherein the cap includes a partition wall defining a reservoir and an outer wall defining an annular channel that at least partially overlaps the reservoir along a radial axis.

43. The electrode water supply assembly of claim 42, wherein the annular channel is fluidly connected to the reservoir via an inner hole defined through the partition wall, wherein the annular channel is fluidly connected to the surrounding environment via an outer hole defined through the outer wall, and wherein the outer hole is configured to direct fluid from the reservoir to the surrounding environment.

44. The electrode water supply assembly of claim 39, wherein the cap is configured to guide an electrical conductor electrically connected to the permanent reference electrode through the distal opening and the proximal opening of the cap.

45. The electrode water supply assembly of claim 39, wherein the cap comprises: The distal tubular section includes the distal opening and a first diameter; A proximal tubular segment, comprising the proximal opening and a second diameter; and A shoulder section is positioned between the distal tubular section and the proximal tubular section to transition between the first diameter and the second diameter.

46. ​​A method for maintaining cathodic monitoring of a structure at least partially underground using an electrode water supply assembly, the method comprising: A flow of fluid is supplied from the ground test station to the proximal end of the conduit, thereby directing the fluid to the distal end of the conduit and to a reservoir within a cap surrounding a permanent reference electrode. The electrolyte compound within the permanent reference electrode is wetted with the fluid in the reservoir of the cap; and One or more tests are performed using the permanent reference electrode to monitor cathodic protection of the structure from the ground-based test station.

47. The method of claim 46, wherein the cap includes an annular channel spaced apart from the reservoir by a partition wall, such that a portion of the fluid supplied to the cap is directed into the annular channel, through the outer aperture, and into the surrounding environment.

48. The method of claim 46, wherein supplying the fluid comprises injecting the fluid into the conduit using a jet assembly including a pressurized container.

49. The method of claim 46, wherein supplying the flow of the fluid comprises instructing an actuator via a controller to fluidly connect a fluid source to the conduit, thereby directing the flow of the fluid into the conduit.

50. The method of claim 46, wherein performing the one or more tests comprises measuring the voltage of the permanent reference electrode via a voltage measuring device.

51. The method of claim 46, further comprising: The reduction in the accuracy of the permanent reference electrode is identified based on one or more of the tests mentioned above; and Additional flow of the fluid is supplied to the proximal end of the catheter to improve the accuracy of the permanent reference electrode.

52. The method of claim 46, further comprising attaching the cap to the permanent reference electrode and attaching the conduit between the cap and the ground test station prior to supplying the flow of the fluid.

53. The kit, which includes: container; One or more caps are positioned in the container, each of the one or more caps including a cap body defining a reservoir adjacent to the proximal electrode of the permanent reference electrode when the cap is mounted on a respective permanent reference electrode, the cap body having: a distal cap end including a distal opening configured to be disposed around the proximal electrode; And the proximal cap end, which includes a proximal opening; and One or more conduits are positioned in the container, each of the one or more conduits comprising a flexible material, each conduit having a distal conduit end configured to be fluidly coupled to the proximal opening and a proximal conduit end configured to be positioned at a cathode test station, such that fluid directed to the proximal conduit end is directed through the conduit and into the reservoir to supply water to at least the proximal electrode.

54. The kit of claim 53, wherein the cap body of each cap defines two flow paths through which fluid passes, including a first flow path from the proximal cap end into the reservoir and to the proximal electrode and a second flow path from the proximal cap end into the annular channel and to the surrounding environment.

55. The kit of claim 53, wherein the one or more catheters comprise a single length to be segmented into a plurality of segments, each segment having a target length shorter than the single length.

56. The kit of claim 53, further comprising one or more permanent reference electrodes positioned within the container.

57. The kit of claim 56, wherein the container includes caps in a number equal to or greater than the number of permanent reference electrodes.

58. The kit of claim 53, further comprising one or more washers configured to be positioned within the distal cap end of each cap prior to mounting each cap onto the respective permanent reference electrode.

59. The kit of claim 53, further comprising one or more sealing elements configured to seal the connection between the one or more caps and the one or more conduits.

60. The kit of claim 59, wherein the one or more sealing elements comprise a heat-shrinkable material.

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