Methods and systems for inspecting a fluid network

Abstract

A method S100 for inspecting a fluid network (for example, a water network) for leaks comprises preventing fluid in the fluid network from flowing into a section to be inspected of the fluid network S101; introducing an input fluid into the section to be inspected S102, wherein the input fluid is fluid from an external fluid supply; measuring an input property of the input fluid S103; and comparing the input property to an expected input property as part of an inspection S104. The input property includes at least one of the input flow rate, the input volume and the input pressure.

Description

FIELD

[01] The present disclosure relates to a method for inspecting a fluid network and a system for inspecting a fluid network. BACKGROUND

[02] Leaks can form in fluid networks, such as water networks. Leaks are outflows or outputs of water from the fluid network from a location in the fluid network that is not configured to enable fluid to leave the network. Such leaks can cause loss of fluid from the fluid network and can cause disruption to the fluid network, including disruption to the supply of the fluid to the end users. A size of a leak describes the volume of fluid leaving the network per unit time, such that a larger leak is a leak with a larger volume of fluid leaving the fluid network per unit time, as compared to a smaller leak. The larger the leak, the more disruption to the fluid network.

[03] It is important to identify leaks in fluid networks so that they can be fixed. It is also important to establish the size of a leak so that the leaks can be ranked or prioritised for planning which leaks are to be fixed and in what order.

[04] Leaks may be identified using a setup including two inlets and a valve therebetween. To identify a leak, the valve may be closed to prevent fluid flowing from an upstream section of the fluid network into a section of the fluid network that will be inspected through the valve. The downstream section is the location of a suspected leak. The fluid from the upstream section passes from the upstream section through a hydrant fluidly connected to the upstream section into a portable flow meter. The fluid passes through the portable flow meter, via a hydrant fluidly connected to the downstream section, and into the downstream section of the fluid network. In this way the flow rate of the fluid flowing into the downstream section can be measured. The flow rate of the fluid flowing into the downstream section can be compared to an expected flow rate and the difference between the measured flow rate and the expected flow rate can be used to indicate the presence of a leak.

[05] This approach may be satisfactory in some instances. However, the approach requires two inlets and a valve therebetween. Not all networks might provide such features, or such features might not be present in the area in which a leak is suspected. This might be especially true in more remote locations, or locations where the network (or relevant part) is very widespread. This might mean that this approach is not practical or possible to implement, making it difficult or impossible to determine the presence or nature of a leak.

[06] There is therefore a desire to provide an improved method of inspecting a fluid network. SUMMARY

[07] It is one aim of the present disclosure, amongst others, to provide a method of inspecting a fluid network which at least partially obviates or mitigates at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art, whether identified herein or elsewhere, or to provide an alternative approach. For instance, it is an aim of embodiments of the invention to provide a method of inspecting a fluid network that can be used in a variety of locations, is reliable and accurate.

[08] According to the present invention there is provided a method of inspecting a fluid network, as set forth in the appended claims. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims and the description that follows.

[09] According to a first aspect, there is provided a method for inspecting a fluid network. The method comprises preventing fluid in the fluid network from flowing into a section to be inspected of the fluid network; introducing an input fluid into the section to be inspected, wherein the input fluid is fluid from an external fluid supply; measuring an input property of the input fluid; and comparing the input property to an expected input property as part of an inspection.

[10] Advantageously, this provides a method for inspecting a fluid network that does not require access to two inlets and a valve, as required by the prior art methods. Instead this method only requires access to one inlet and a single way of preventing fluid in the network from flowing into a section to be inspected (e.g. one valve). In this way, the method can be used in more locations than the prior art methods, so it is more flexible in relation to an inspection location required. Advantageously, a measurement device can be introduced into the fluid network closer to the location of the suspected leak, which improves the accuracy of the inspection. Advantageously, because the measurement device can be introduced into the fluid network closerto the suspected leak, different types of measurement devices can be used, including less sensitive measurement devices. Also, this method does not require the use of fluid from an upstream section of the network. This may allow more versatile and less restricted use of the method.

[11] The method also provides an alternative method of inspecting a fluid network, even in locations with two or more inlets, for example due to the advantageous use of external fluid supply.

[12] The fluid may be predominantly water. In other words, the majority of the fluid in the fluid network may be water. In this way, the method may be used in water networks.

[13] The input property may include at least one of: the input flow rate; the input volume; and the input pressure. In this way, properties of the input fluid other than the flow rate can be measured. Advantageously, this allows measurement devices other than a flow meter to be used. Thus the method may be more flexible.

[14] The expected input property may be estimated from an expected output property of the section to be inspected. For example, the expected input property may be the same as, or similar to, the expected output property. In this way, the expected input property may be linked to the expected output property.

[15] The expected output property may be estimated based on at least one of: an average output property during typical use of the section to be inspected; a number of users of the section to be inspected; and a category of users of the section to be inspected. In this way, the method may be configured to the specific section to be inspected. Advantageously, this increases the accuracy of the method.

[16] The preventing fluid in the fluid network from flowing into a section to be inspected may comprise closing an upstream valve. The preventing fluid in the fluid network from flowing into a section to be inspected may comprise closing a downstream valve. In this way, fluid can be prevented from flowing into the section to be inspected and the section to be inspected can be fluidly isolated from the rest of the fluid network. Advantageously, this allows smaller sections of the fluid network to be inspected, thus increasing the accuracy and precision of the inspection.

[17] The input fluid may be introduced into the section to be inspected via an inlet. The inlet may be a the inlet may be a pipe access, a hydrant or a hole through which the pipe may be accessed. Advantageously, this allows a variety of inlets to be used. For example, any preexisting inlet, may be used. This is easier to achieve, compared with needing to introduce a new hole or other port into the fluid network, for example by drilling, tapping, or similar.

[18] The introducing the input fluid into the section to be inspected may comprise pumping the input fluid into the section to be inspected. In this way, the input flow variables of the input fluid, such as the flow rate, the pressure, and the like, may be controlled more precisely. Advantageously, this improves the accuracy of the inspection.

[19] The method may further comprise controlling an input flow variable of the input fluid to be a set value. Advantageously, this may allow the input fluid to be configured to allow the fluid network to mimic normal operating conditions, or even different conditions. For example, the input fluid may be input at a higher pressure than usual, which may allow the fluid pressure at the end use to be comparable to the typical fluid pressure. Alternatively, for example, the input fluid may be input at a lower pressure than usual, which may reduce further loss of fluid from the leak during the leak detection and / or quantification process.

[20] The method may further comprise: measuring a first input property at a corresponding first flow value; comparing the first input property to a first expected input property as part of the inspection; measuring a second input property at a corresponding second flow value; and comparing the second input property to a second expected input property as part of the inspection. In this way, the method can take different input property measurements, such as taking multiple input property measurements at different flow values. For example, the method can be used to take measurements of the flow rate at high pressure and low pressure. Advantageously, this may allow different types of leak to be identified, or may allow different properties of the leak to be determined. [21 ] The inspection may be for detecting a leak. The method may further comprise determining that there is a leak in the section to be inspected when a difference between the input property and the expected input property is greater than or equal to a threshold value. In this way, the method can detect leaks, which are a significant problem in fluid networks. Advantageously, the method provides a simple, accurate, precise and effective method to determine the presence of a leak in a section of the fluid network.

[22] The inspection may be for quantifying a leak. The quantifying a leak may comprise prioritising leaks based on a difference between the input property and the expected input property. In this way, the method can quantify leaks, which are a significant problem in fluid networks. Advantageously, the method provides a simple, accurate, precise and effective method to quantify a leak, or leaks. The quantification can be used to prioritise which leaks should be addressed before others, thus allowing more effective management of fluid networks.

[23] According to a second aspect, there is provided a system for inspecting a section to be inspected of a fluid network into which fluid from the fluid network is prevented from flowing, comprising: an external fluid supply; an input fluid, wherein the input fluid is for introducing into the section to be inspected from the external fluid supply; a measurement device for measuring an input property of the input fluid; and a processor for comparing the input property to an expected input property as part of an inspection. This system may implement the method of the first aspect.

[24] The input fluid may be introduced into the section to be inspected using a pump. This allows the system to pump the input fluid into the section to be inspected.

[25] The system may be portable; and optionally the system may be provided on a vehicle or transportable by a vehicle. In this way, the system may be brought to the inspection location and taken from the inspection location. Advantageously, this allows one system to be used at multiple locations.

[26] According to a third aspect, there is provided a method for inspecting a fluid network. The method comprises pumping an input fluid into a section to be inspected of the fluid network; measuring an input property of the input fluid; and comparing the input property to an expected input property as part of an inspection.

[27] In this way, the input flow variables of the input fluid, such as the flow rate, the pressure, and the like, may be controlled more precisely. Advantageously, this improves the accuracy of the inspection. Advantageously, this allows a variety of readings to be taken using a variety of input flow variables. Advantageously, this allows the method to mimic the normal operating conditions of the fluid network, that is, the operating conditions of the fluid network when a leak is not present.

[28] The method may further comprise preventing fluid in the fluid network from flowing into the section to be inspected. The input fluid may be fluid from an external fluid supply. Advantageously, this provides a method that does not require access to two inlets and a valve, as required by the prior art methods. In this way, the method can be used in more locations than the prior art methods, so it is more flexible in relation to an inspection location required. Advantageously, a measurement device can be introduced into the fluid network closer to the location of the suspected leak, which improves the accuracy ofthe inspection. The inspection accuracy may be improved because a closer measurement device may be more sensitive to smaller input property measurements or smaller changes in input property measurements. Advantageously, because the measurement device can be introduced into the fluid network closer to the suspected leak, different types of measurement devices can be used, including less sensitive measurement devices, which may be cheaper or more widely available than more accurate measurement devices. The method may also provide an alternative method of inspecting a fluid network, even in locations with two or more inlets.

[29] The fluid may be predominantly water. In other words, the majority ofthe fluid in the fluid network may be water. In this way, the method may be used in water networks.

[30] The input property may include at least one of: the input flow rate; the input volume; and the input pressure. In this way, properties of the input fluid other than the flow rate can be measured. Advantageously, this allows measurement devices otherthan a flow meterto be used. Thus the method may be more flexible.

[31] The expected input property may be estimated from an expected output property ofthe section to be inspected. For example, the expected input property may be the same as, or similar to, the expected output property. In this way, the expected input property may be linked to the expected output property.

[32] The expected output property may be estimated based on at least one of: an average output property during typical use ofthe section to be inspected; a number of users ofthe section to be inspected; and a category of users ofthe section to be inspected. In this way, the method may be configured to the specific section to be inspected. Advantageously, this increases the accuracy ofthe method.

[33] The preventing fluid in the fluid network from flowing into a section to be inspected may comprise closing an upstream valve. The preventing fluid in the fluid network from flowing into a section to be inspected may comprise closing a downstream valve. In this way, fluid can be prevented from flowing into the section to be inspected and the section to be inspected can be fluidly isolated from the rest ofthe fluid network. Advantageously, this allows smaller sections of the fluid network to be inspected, thus increasing the accuracy and precision ofthe inspection.

[34] The input fluid may be introduced into the section to be inspected via an inlet. The inlet may be a the inlet may be a pipe access, a hydrant or a hole through which the pipe may be accessed. Advantageously, this allows a variety of inlets to be used. For example, any preexisting inlet, may be used. This is easier to achieve, compared with needing to introduce a new hole into the fluid network, for example by drilling, tapping, or similar.

[35] The method may further comprise controlling an input flow variable of the input fluid to be a set value. This may be done using the pump. Advantageously, this may allow the input fluid to be configured to allow the fluid network to mimic normal operating conditions. For example, the input fluid may be input at a higher pressure than usual, which may allow the fluid pressure at the end use to be comparable to the typical fluid pressure. Alternatively, for example, the input fluid may be input at a lower pressure than usual, which may reduce further loss of fluid from the leak during the leak detection and / or quantification process.

[36] The method may further comprise: measuring a first input property at a corresponding first flow value; comparing the first input property to a first expected input property as part of the inspection; measuring a second input property at a corresponding second flow value; and comparing the second input property to a second expected input property as part of the inspection. In this way, the method can take different input property measurements, such as taking multiple input property measurements at different flow values. For example, the method can be used to take measurements of the flow rate at high pressure and low pressure. Advantageously, this may allow different types of leak to be identified, or may allow different properties of the leak to be determined.

[37] The inspection may be for detecting a leak. The method may further comprise determining that there is a leak in the section to be inspected when a difference between the input property and the expected input property is greater than or equal to a threshold value. In this way, the method can detect leaks, which are a significant problem in fluid networks. Advantageously, the method provides a simple, accurate, precise and effective method to determine the presence of a leak in a section of the fluid network.

[38] The inspection may be for quantifying a leak. The quantifying a leak may comprise prioritising leaks based on a difference between the input property and the expected input property. In this way, the method can quantify leaks, which are a significant problem in fluid networks. Advantageously, the method provides a simple, accurate, precise and effective method to quantify a leak, or leaks. The quantification can be used to prioritise which leaks should be addressed before others, thus allowing more effective management of fluid networks.

[39] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a system for inspecting a section to be inspected of a fluid network, comprising: a pump for introducing an input fluid into the section to be inspected; a measurement device for measuring an input property of the input fluid; and a processor for comparing the input property to an expected input property as part of an inspection. This system may implement the method of the third aspect.

[40] The input fluid may be fluid from an external fluid supply. Advantageously, this provides a system that does not require access to two inlets and a valve, as required by the prior art methods. In this way, the system can be used in more locations than the prior art methods, so it is more flexible in relation to an inspection location required. Advantageously, a measurement device can be introduced into the fluid network closer to the location of the suspected leak, which improves the accuracy of the inspection. Advantageously, because the measurement device can be introduced into the fluid network closer to the suspected leak, different types of measurement devices can be used, including less sensitive measurement devices. The system may also provide an alternative system for inspecting a fluid network, even in locations with two or more inlets.

[41] The system may be portable; and optionally the system is provided on a vehicle or transportable by a vehicle. In this way, the system may be brought to the inspection location and taken from the inspection location. Advantageously, this allows one system to be used at multiple locations.

[42] It will, of course, be appreciated that features described in relation to one aspect of the present invention may be incorporated into other aspects of the present invention. For example, the method of any aspect of the invention may incorporate any of the features described with reference to the system of any aspect of the invention and vice versa. Indeed, such a combination is explicitly described below.

[43] Other preferred and advantageous features of the invention will be apparent from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[44] For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how exemplary embodiments of the same may be brought into effect, reference will be made, by way of example only, to the accompanying Figures, in which:

[45] Figure 1 shows a method of inspecting a fluid network according to a first exemplary embodiment;

[46] Figure 2 shows a system for inspecting a section of a fluid network using the method of Figure 1;

[47] Figure 3 shows a method of inspecting a fluid network according to a second exemplary embodiment;

[48] Figure 4 shows a system for inspecting a section of a fluid network using the method of Figure 3;

[49] Figure 5 shows a method of inspecting a fluid network according to a third exemplary embodiment; and

[50] Figure 6 shows a system for inspecting a section of a fluid network using the method of Figure 5. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[51] Figure 1 shows a method S100 of inspecting a fluid network according to a first exemplary embodiment. The method comprises preventing fluid in the fluid network from flowing into a section to be inspected of the fluid network S101, introducing an input fluid into the section to be inspected S102, measuring an input property of the input fluid S103, and comparing the input property to an expected input property as part of an inspection S104. The input fluid is fluid from an external fluid supply. These steps are described in more detail below.

[52] Figure 2 shows a system 206 for inspecting a section of a fluid network. The section to be inspected is a section of a fluid network into which fluid from the fluid network is prevented from flowing. The system 206 comprises an external fluid supply 208, an input fluid 210, a measurement device 212, and a processor 214.

[53] Also shown in Figure 2 is a segment of the fluid network, including at least a portion of the section to be inspected. The segment of the fluid network shown in Figure 2 includes a pipe 216, a valve 218, and an inlet 220. As shown in Figure 2, the segment of the fluid network to be inspected may also comprise a suspected leak 222.

[54] To use the system 206 for inspecting the fluid network, the valve 218 is closed to prevent fluid from flowing into the section to be inspected that is downstream of the closed valve 218. The external fluid supply is connected to the inlet 220, such that the input fluid 210 can flow into the section to be inspected via the measurement device 212. The input fluid 210 flows into the section to be inspected, via the measurement device 212 and inlet 220. As the input fluid 210 flows into the section to be inspected, the measurement device 212 measures an input property of the input fluid 210. For example, the measurement device 212 may be a flow meter and may measure the flow rate of the input fluid 210. The processor 214 receives the input property from the measurement device 212. The processor 214 compares the input property to an expected output property. The expected output property may be pre-set and stored by the processor 214, or it may be calculated by the processor 214. The processor 214 may use the difference between the input property and the expected output property to determine whether or not there is a leak in the section to be inspected. The processor 214 may use the difference between the input property and the expected output property to assign a priority to a leak.

[55] Advantageously, this provides a method for inspecting a fluid network that does not require access to two inlets and a valve, as required by the prior art methods. Instead this method only requires access to one inlet and one valve (or other mechanism or control for fluid flow prevention). In this way, the method can be used in more locations than the prior art methods, so it is more flexible in relation to an inspection location required. Advantageously, a measurement device can be introduced into the fluid network closer to the location of the suspected leak, which improves the accuracy of the inspection. Advantageously, because the measurement device can be introduced into the fluid network closer to the suspected leak, different types of measurement devices can be used, including less sensitive measurement devices. Also, the use of an external fluid supply makes the method far more versatile, and does not require the presence or use of fluid in or from an upstream part of the network. The method also provides an alternative method of inspecting a fluid network, even in locations with two or more inlets.

[56] The preventing fluid in the fluid network from flowing into a section to be inspected S101 may comprise closing an upstream valve 218. The preventing fluid in the fluid network from flowing into a section to be inspected S101 may comprise closing a downstream valve 230. This may prevent any backflow of fluid from downstream sections of the fluid network. This may also allow the section to be inspected to be made smaller, thereby increasing the accuracy and precision of the method S100 and system 206. The fluid in the fluid network may be water, predominantly water, waste water, or natural gas. The fluid in the fluid network may be the same fluid as the input fluid 210. The input fluid 210 may be water, predominantly water, waste water, or natural gas. The input fluid 210 may be a different fluid to the fluid in the fluid network.

[57] As shown in Figure 2, the external fluid supply 208 comprises a container for holding the input fluid 210, i.e. a fluid container. The external fluid supply 208 may also comprise the input fluid 210. The input fluid 210 is for introducing into the section to be inspected from the external fluid supply 208. As shown in Figure 2, the input fluid 210 may be a fluid that is not fluidly connected to the fluid network, or is fluidly connected to the section to be inspected but is not fluidly connected to an upstream section of the fluid network. In some examples, the input fluid 210 may be transported to an inspection location in the fluid container. The system 206 may be portable; and optionally the system 206 may be provided on a vehicle or transportable by a vehicle.

[58] Introducing an input fluid 210 into the section to be inspected S102 may comprise introducing the input fluid 210 into the section to be inspected via an inlet 220. In some examples, the inlet 220 may be a pipe 216 access, a hydrant or a hole through which the pipe 216 may be accessed.

[59] In some examples, introducing the input fluid 210 into the section to be inspected may comprise siphoning the input fluid 210 into the section to be inspected. In some examples, introducing the input fluid 210 into the section to be inspected may comprise increasing the pressure of the input fluid 210, such that the external fluid supply 208 is at a higher pressure then the fluid in the section to be inspected, causing the input fluid 210 to flow from the higher pressure external fluid supply 208 into the section to be inspected. In some examples, introducing the input fluid 210 into the section to be inspected may comprise causing the input fluid 210 to flow into the section to be inspected using gravity. In other words, by having the external fluid supply 208 raised above the section to be inspected, the fluid may flow from the external fluid supply 208 into the section to be inspected.

[60] Advantageously, using an external water supply allows the method S100 and system 206 to be implemented at inspection locations that have one valve 218 and one inlet 220. Therefore, the method S100 and system 206 can be implemented in more inspection locations. This allows for increased flexibility in inspecting the fluid network. This is particularly advantageous in rural locations because the setup required by other inspection methods and systems, which includes two inlet 220s and a valve 218, may not be present in rural locations or may be less common than a single inlet 220 and valve 218 setup.

[61] Measuring an input property of the input fluid S103 may comprise measuring at least one of the input flow rate; the input volume; and the input pressure.

[62] The measurement device 212 is for measuring an input property of the input fluid 210. The input property may include at least one of the input flow rate; the input volume; and the input pressure. The input property may include a measurement associated with the input fluid 210. The input property may include a parameter or property of the input fluid 210 that is linked or linkable to the flow rate of the input fluid 210. In effect, this allows for an indirect measurement of the flow rate of the input fluid 210.

[63] As the input fluid 210 flows into the section to be inspected, the measurement device 212 measures an input property of the input fluid 210. The measurement device 212 may be a device for measuring fluid flow rate, fluid volume, fluid pressure, or any other suitable parameter or property that is linked or linkable to the flow rate of the input fluid 210. For example, the measurement device 212 may be a flow meter and may measure the flow rate of the input fluid 210. The measurement device 212 may take multiple readings of the input property. The measurement device 212 may take the average of the multiple readings. The measurement device 212 may take measurements of the input property overtime. The measurement device 212 continuously measure the input property overtime. Measuring an input property may include a person taking readings. The measurement device 212 may transmit the input property to the processor 214. The measurement device may transmit the input property to a storage device. The storage device may include non-volatile memory. The storage device may include volatile memory. The storage device may be a data logger. The storage device may include remote servers, allowing the data to be stored remotely. In effect, this may allow data to be stored on the cloud. The storage device may include a phone, computer, paper, or the like. The measurement device 212 may be integrated into the external fluid supply 208 or may be a separate component, connected to the external fluid supply 208 in use.

[64] Comparing the input property to an expected input property as part of an inspection S104 may comprise estimating the expected input property from an expected output property of the section to be inspected.

[65] The processor 214 is for comparing the input property to an expected input property as part of an inspection. The processor may include a computer, a person, or the like. The processing may be carried out manually or automatically. In use, the processor 214 may receive the input property from the measurement device 212. In use, the processor 214 may receive the input property from the storage device. The processor 214 may be at the inspection location, or may be remote. The processor 214 and storage device may be integrated, in effect, they may be provided by one component. The processor 214 and storage device may be provided by more than one component, in effect, the processor 214 and storage device may be separate components.

[66] The processor 214 compares the input property to an expected input property. The expected input property may be the same as an expected output property. The expected output property may be pre-set and stored by the processor 214, or it may be stored by the storage device and transmitted to the processor 214, or it may be calculated by the processor 214. The expected output property may be calculated or estimated using any suitable method. The expected output property may be calculated or estimated from data relating to the section to be inspected that is collected during a period of normal use, during which there are no suspected leaks 222 or minimal suspected leaks 222 In this way, the expected output property may be estimated or calculated based on an average output property during typical use of the section to be inspected. The expected output property may be estimated or calculated based on a number of users of the section to be inspected and a category of users of the section to be inspected. For example, more users may increase the expected output property. For example, users that belong to categories that typically use more water, such as commercial users (in comparison to individual users), may increase the expected output property.

[67] If there are no leaks present, the expected input property should be the same as the output property. In examples where the input property is the flow rate, a flow rate into the section to be inspected that is larger or significantly larger than the expected input flow rate may mean that more fluid is leaving the section to be inspected than expected and may indicate the presence of a leak. Additional information about the leak may be determined from the difference between the input property and the expected input property. For example, the larger the difference between the input flow rate and the expected input flow rate, the larger the leak may be. The processor 214 may also store the difference between the input property and the expected input property, or may transmit the difference between the input property and the expected input property to the storage device. Then, if multiple readings are taken using different sections to be inspected, the differences can be compared. This may enable the leaks to be ranked from largest to smallest. This ranking may be used, along with other information such as the ease with which the section to be inspected of the fluid network can be accessed, to prioritise which leaks should be investigated further or fixed before others.

[68] In some examples, the section to be inspected may comprise a suspected leak 222. The inspection may be for detecting a leak, or determining the presence of a leak. The method may further comprise determining that there is a leak in the section to be inspected when a difference between the input property and the expected input property is greater than or equal to a threshold value. This threshold value may be pre-set, according to requirements defined by the user. In this way, when the input property is outside of an expected range, it is determined that a leak is present in the section to be inspected.

[69] When the invention is used to detect leaks, the section to be inspected is chosen such that there is an inlet 220 upstream of the location of the suspected leak 222 in the section to be inspected. In effect, the upstream valve 218 that is closed is chosen such that there is an inlet 220 upstream of the location of the suspected leak 222. At the inspection location, as shown in Figure 2, there should be at least one valve 218 and at least one inlet 220. In the leak detection example, the suspected leak 222 should be in the section to be inspected, and should be downstream of the inspection location, or the valve 218 and inlet 220 location. In this way, the method can detect leaks, which are a significant problem in fluid networks. Advantageously, the method provides a simple, accurate, precise and effective method to determine the presence of a leak in a section of the fluid network.

[70] In some examples, the inspection may be for quantifying a leak. This leak may be detected using the leak detection method described above, or any other suitable leak detection method. Quantifying a leak may comprise assigning a priority to a leak based on the difference between the input property and the expected input property. This priority may be a number representing the size of the leak, as compared to an average leak size. Quantifying a leak may comprise prioritising leaks based on their assigned priority. In this way, the method S100 and system 206 may prioritise leaks based on the difference between the input property and the expected input property of each leak. In effect, the method S100 and system 206 may prioritise leaks based on an output property of each leak. In this way, the method can quantify leaks, which are a significant problem in fluid networks. Advantageously, the method provides a simple, accurate, precise and effective method to quantify a leak, or leaks. The quantification can be used to prioritise which leaks should be addressed before others, thus allowing more effective management of fluid networks.

[71] In some examples, the section to be inspected may contain neither a suspected, nor a detected leak. In this case, the inspection may be routine testing of the fluid network.

[72] The method may further comprise controlling an input flow variable of the input fluid 210 to be a set value. The input flow variable of the input fluid 210 may include at least one of the input flow rate; the input volume; and the input pressure. The input flow variable may correspond to the same property that is measured as the input property. The method may further comprise measuring a first input property at a corresponding first flow value; comparing the first input property to a first expected input property as part of the inspection; measuring a second input property at a corresponding second flow value; and comparing the second input property to a second expected input property as part of the inspection. The first input flow variable may correspond to the same measured property as the second input flow variable. The first input flow variable may correspond to a different measured property to the second input flow variable. In examples where the input flow variable corresponds to the same property that is measured as the input property, the measuring of the first input property and / or the second input property may not be necessary. This is because the input property may be taken to be the same as the input flow variable.

[73] Advantageously, taking multiple measurements with different input flow variables could allow different types of leaks to be detected. For example, the input pressure could be increased to find smaller leaks.

[74] As previously described, in some examples, introducing the input fluid 210 into the section to be inspected may comprise siphoning, increasing the pressure of the input fluid 210, or using gravity to cause the flow of the input fluid 210. An alternative to these methods is pumping the fluid, as described below.

[75] Figure 3 shows a method S300 for inspecting a fluid network according to a second exemplary embodiment. While related to the embodiment shown in and described with reference to Figures 1 and 2, the embodiment of Figure 3 may be use independently or in isolation, and has specific benefits. Or, the embodiments can be used in combination, where there is synergy.

[76] The method S300 comprises pumping an input fluid into a section to be inspected of the fluid network S301, measuring an input property of the input fluid S302, and comparing the input property to an expected input property as part of an inspection S303. These steps are described in more detail below.

[77] Figure 4 shows a system 406 for inspecting a section of a fluid network. The system 406 comprises a pump 424, a measurement device 412, and a processor 414. As shown in Figure 4, the system 406 may also comprise a connector 428. There may be no external fluid supply in some examples. Introducing the input fluid into the section to be inspected may comprise pumping the input fluid into the section to be inspected. The input fluid may be introduced into the section to be inspected using a pump. In this way, the input flow variables of the input fluid, such as the flow rate, the pressure, and the like, may be controlled more precisely. Advantageously, this improves the accuracy of the inspection. In particular, the pump 424 may be a quiet pump, so as to minimise noise from the system 406 and reduce disruption to the inspection location. This is particularly advantageous when the system 406 is used while people may be sleeping near the inspection location.

[78] Also shown in Figure 4 is a segment of the fluid network. The segment of the fluid network shown in Figure 4 includes a pipe 416, a valve 418, a downstream inlet 420 and an upstream inlet 426. The upstream inlet 426 allows the fluid to flow out of the upstream portion of the fluid network and into the system 406. The segment of the fluid network shown in Figure 4 includes at least a portion of the section to be inspected. The section to be inspected is a section of a fluid network into which fluid from the fluid network is prevented from flowing via the valve 418. As shown in Figure 4, the segment of the fluid network to be inspected may include a suspected leak 422.

[79] To use the system 406 of Figure 4 for inspecting the fluid network, the valve 418 is closed to prevent fluid from flowing into the section to be inspected from the portion of the fluid network that is upstream of the closed valve 418 via the valve 418. The pump 424 is fluidly connected to the upstream inlet 426 that is upstream of the closed valve 418. The pump 424 is fluidly connected to the downstream inlet 420 that is downstream of the closed valve 418 and in the section to be inspected. The fluid from the upstream portion of the fluid network that is pumped into the downstream portion of the fluid network is the input fluid. The input fluid is pumped into the section to be inspected via the measurement device 412. The input fluid is pumped into the section to be inspected from the upstream portion. The input fluid is pumped from the upstream inlet 426, via the pump, the measurement device 412 and downstream inlet 420, into the section to be inspected.

[80] As described previously, as the input fluid flows into the section to be inspected, the measurement device 412 measures an input property of the input fluid, and transmits the input property to the processor 414, optionally via the storage device. The processor 414 performs the comparison, as described above.

[81] Figure 5 shows a method S500 of inspecting a fluid network incorporating features of the methods of Figure 1 and Figure 3 (i.e. in combination). In particular, the method comprises preventing fluid in the fluid network from flowing into a section to be inspected of the fluid network S501, pumping an input fluid into the section to be inspected S502, measuring an input property of the input fluid S503, and comparing the input property to an expected input property as part of an inspection S504. The input fluid is fluid from an external fluid supply 608, as shown in Figure 6.

[82] Figure 6 shows a system 606 for inspecting a fluid network incorporating features of the systems of Figure 2 and Figure 4. In particular, Figure 6 shows a system 606 for inspecting a section of a fluid network. The section to be inspected is a section of a fluid network into which fluid from the fluid network is prevented from flowing. The system 606 comprises an external fluid supply 608, an input fluid 610, a measurement device 612, a processor 614, and a pump 624. As shown in Figure 6, the system may also comprise a connector 628. The system 606 includes both an external fluid supply 608, as described in relation to Figure 2, and a pump 624, as described in relation to Figure 4.

[83] Also shown in Figure 6 is a segment of the fluid network, including at least a portion of the section to be inspected. The segment of the fluid network shown in Figure 6 includes a pipe 616, a valve 618, and an inlet 620. As shown in Figure 6, the segment of the fluid network to be inspected may also comprise a suspected leak 622.

[84] The pump may be integrated into the external fluid supply 608. The processor may be integrated into the external fluid supply 608. The measurement device may be integrated into the external fluid supply 608.

[85] Advantageously, this method S500 and system 606 provides the advantages of the methods and systems of the two previously described embodiments. It also allows more precise control over the input fluid 610. For example, it allows for control of the type of the fluid 610 and the input flow variables of the fluid 610. Therefore the input fluid 610 can be specifically configured to provide more accurate leak detection and quantification.

[86] Although preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims and as described above.

[87] Throughout this specification, the term “comprising” or “comprises” means including the component(s) specified but not to the exclusion of the presence of other components. The term “consisting essentially of’ or “consists essentially of’ means including the components specified but excluding other components except for materials present as impurities, unavoidable materials present as a result of processes used to provide the components, and components added for a purpose other than achieving the technical effect of the invention, such as colourants, and the like.

[88] The term “consisting of’ or “consists of’ means including the components specified but excluding other components.

[89] Whenever appropriate, depending upon the context, the use of the term “comprises" or “comprising” may also be taken to include the meaning “consists essentially of’ or “consisting essentially of’, and also may also be taken to include the meaning “consists of’ or “consisting of’.

[90] The optional features set out herein may be used either individually or in combination with each otherwhere appropriate and particularly in the combinations as set out in the accompanying claims. The optional features for each aspect or exemplary embodiment of the invention, as set out herein are also applicable to all other aspects or exemplary embodiments of the invention, where appropriate. In other words, the skilled person reading this specification should consider the optional features for each aspect or exemplary embodiment of the invention as interchangeable and combinable between different aspects and exemplary embodiments.

[91] All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings) may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at most some of such features are mutually exclusive.

[92] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[93] The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings).

Claims

1. A method for inspecting a fluid network comprising:preventing fluid in the fluid network from flowing into a section to be inspected of the fluid network;introducing an input fluid into the section to be inspected, wherein the input fluid is fluid from an external fluid supply;measuring an input property of the input fluid; andcomparing the input property to an expected input property as part of an inspection.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the fluid is predominantly water.

3. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the input property includes at least one of:the input flow rate;the input volume; andthe input pressure.

4. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the expected input property is estimated from an expected output property of the section to be inspected.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the expected output property is estimated based on at least one of:an average output property during typical use of the section to be inspected;a number of users of the section to be inspected; anda category of users of the section to be inspected.

6. The method of any preceding claim, wherein preventing fluid in the fluid network from flowing into a section to be inspected comprises closing an upstream valve.

7. The method of any preceding claim, wherein preventing fluid in the fluid network from flowing into a section to be inspected comprises closing a downstream valve.

8. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the input fluid is introduced into the section to be inspected via an inlet.

9. The method of any preceding claim, wherein introducing the input fluid into the section to be inspected comprises pumping the input fluid into the section to be inspected.

10. The method of any preceding claim, further comprising controlling an input flow variable of the input fluid to be a set value.

11. The method of any preceding claim, further comprising:measuring a first input property at a corresponding first flow value;comparing the first input property to a first expected input property as part of the inspection;measuring a second input property at a corresponding second flow value; andcomparing the second input property to a second expected input property as part of the inspection.

12. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the inspection is for detecting a leak.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising determining that there is a leak in the section to be inspected when a difference between the input property and the expected input property is greater than or equal to a threshold value.

14. The method of any preceding claim, wherein the inspection is for quantifying a leak.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the quantifying a leak comprises prioritising leaks basedon a difference between the input property and the expected input property.

16. A system for inspecting a section to be inspected of a fluid network into which fluid from the fluid network is prevented from flowing, comprising:an external fluid supply;an input fluid, wherein the input fluid is for introducing into the section to be inspected from the external fluid supply;a measurement device for measuring an input property of the input fluid; anda processor for comparing the input property to an expected input property as part of an inspection.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the input fluid is introduced into the section to be inspected using a pump.

18. The system of claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the system is portable; andoptionally the system is provided on a vehicle or transportable by a vehicle.

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