Automatic fluid sampler

Abstract

Fluid sampler (1) for automatic sampling from a fluid reservoir, for example a wastewater reservoir, comprising a housing (10) which delimits a thermally insulated storage space (11) for storing samples; a collection device associated with the storage space and comprising an inlet to be provided in a fluid reservoir and an outlet, wherein the collection device is configured to collect fluid samples from the fluid reservoir via the inlet and to provide collected samples to the storage space for storage via the outlet; and a conditioning unit (3) configured to control a temperature in the storage space, wherein the housing (10) comprises a stationary insulating portion (12) and a detachable conditioning wall portion (13) that is arrangeable in an attached position in which the insulating portion and the conditioning wall portion together enclose the storage space to be conditioned with the conditioning unit and in a detached position in which the housing is opened as the insulated portion and the conditioning wall portion are separated from each other, and wherein the conditioning unit (3) is provided in the detachable conditioning wall portion (13).

Description

[0001] Title: Automatic fluid sampler

[0002] Field of the invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a fluid sampler for automatic sampling from a fluid reservoir, a fluid treatment or discharge installation and to a method for sampling from a fluid reservoir. The invention further relates to a method for commissioning a fluid sampler.

[0004] Background of the invention

[0005] At present, several fluid samplers for sampling fluid from a fluid reservoir exist. Such samplers generally comprise a collection device that periodically collects a fluid sample and a storage housing for storing collected samples in a protected environment. In particular, the environment may need to be cooled in order to limit degradation of samples due to chemical reactions and / or biological growth in order to comply with relevant standards, as mentioned in EN 16479 and ISO 5667. For example, the cooling needs to comply with ISO 5667-3 and fluid samplers for sampling waste water should meet ISO 5567-10.

[0006] It has been found that, especially in chemically harsh environments such as sewage treatment plants, the conditioning unit requires frequent maintenance and / or the lifespan can be relatively limited.

[0007] The conditioning unit is usually provided in the housing, and due to contact with gasses from the environment and / or samples, corrosion may occur, for example in the compressor or evaporator. The cooling unit is usually provided near the rear of the sampler and difficult to reach.

[0008] For protection, a coating can be applied over fragile parts of the cooling units to increase chemical resistance. However, it has been found that such a coating may degrade over time, especially due to the relatively large temperature differences it may be subject to.

[0009] Another option is to embed parts of the conditioning unit within an insulating foam, e.g. within a Pll OR PUR foam, which decreases contact with gases in the environment.

[0010] However, such a foam may hinder replacement or maintenance due to limited reachability of the respective part. Due to the inherent openness, a PU foam may absorb water over time and thereby degrade and, in particular, loose its thermally insulating properties. Thereby, a PU foam insulation requires a structural and / or shielding material for strength and to shield it against water ingression. PU foam adheres to the structural and / or shielding material. As a result, PU foam complicates recycling of the fluid sampler due to its adhesion, e.g. to the conditioning unit and / or the housing. As an alternative, it is known to provide a modular conditioning unit in a separate housing that can be replaced as a module. During installation, the separate housing is fluidly connected to the storage housing, such that conditioned air can be circulated between conditioning unit into the storage unit. However, it has been found that the forced air flow past the conditioning unit even increases corrosion, especially in harsh environment.

[0011] Therefore, known fluid samples have relatively high maintenance requirements and / or a limited lifespan. Thereby, it was found that efficiency during operation could be improved. After operation, known fluid samples are generally difficult to dispose in an environmentally friendly way.

[0012] Finally, the known systems require coolants that are relatively safe due to their low flammability, but as a downside have a relatively high global warming potential. As environmentally friendly coolants may be flammable, it has been found that the risk of corrosion and leakage in known systems causes known systems to be limitedly suitable for environmentally friendly coolants. As a consequence, known samplers are not equipped with environmentally friendly refrigerants but use conventional coolants instead, such as R134 having a relatively high GWP of 1430.

[0013] Object of the invention

[0014] It is therefore an object of the invention to provide an automatic fluid sampler that is more resistant to chemically harsh environments, that requires less maintenance and / or has a higher lifespan, or at least to provide an alternative automatic fluid sampler, for example an automatic fluid sampler that is more efficient, better repairable, better recyclable and / or that is better suited for use with environmentally friendly coolants.

[0015] Detailed description

[0016] The present invention provides a fluid sampler according to claim 1. The fluid sampler is suited for automatic sampling from a fluid reservoir, for example a wastewater reservoir, and comprises a thermally insulating housing which delimits a storage space for storing samples and a collection device associated with the storage space and comprising an inlet to be provided in a fluid reservoir and an outlet.

[0017] The collection device is configured to collect fluid samples from the fluid reservoir via the inlet and to provide collected samples to the storage space for storage via the outlet.

[0018] The sampler further comprises a conditioning unit configured to control a temperature in the storage space, and the housing comprises a stationary insulating portion and a detachable conditioning wall portion that is arrangeable in an attached position in which the insulating portion and the conditioning wall portion together enclose the storage space to be conditioned with the conditioning unit and a detached position in which the housing is opened as the insulated portion and the conditioning wall portion are separated from each other.

[0019] The conditioning unit is provided in the detachable conditioning wall portion itself. As such, no separate modules may need to be arranged on the housing. In particular, no adapter piece between the conditioning module and the housing may be required for adjustment of the conditioning module to the housing. This has several advantages:

[0020] First, the conditioning unit is advantageously protected by the conditioning wall portion, such that harsh environments may have less influence on the conditioning unit, such that corrosion may be limited and the lifespan can be increased;

[0021] Secondly, as the conditioning unit is arranged in the wall, it is located near the outside of the water sampler. As such, reachability and accessibility for service or maintenance are improved.

[0022] Finally, the conditioning unit may be replaced relatively easy by placing a new conditioning wall portion in place of an old portion. This is an economical advantage as with prior art systems, a certified cool technician may be required on site for a certain time. In the sampler according to the present invention, the replacement may potentially be performed in less time and with less certification requirements for the worker.

[0023] As such, the invention provides an automatic sampler that may be more resistant to chemically harsh environments, requires less maintenance and / or has an increased lifespan.

[0024] The fluid sampler may be a wastewater sampler and / or a fluid sampler according to ISO 5667. The fluid sampler may comprise an analysis unit configured to analyse collected samples. The analysis unit may comprise a sensor, for example a temperature sensor, pH sensor, gas sensor, or another type of sensor.

[0025] The housing may comprise walls that delimit the storage space. The walls may completely surround the storage space. The walls may be thermally insulated and / or thermal insulation may be provided within the walls.

[0026] The collection device may comprise a controller. The collection device may be configured to periodically collect fluid samples, for example hourly, daily or weekly. The collection device may comprise a suction device configured to move a sample through the inlet, e.g. configured to provide suction at the inlet. The suction device may provide for pumping a sample through the inlet, and for example comprise a pump. The suction device may be fluidly connectable to the inlet and / or to the outlet.

[0027] The collection device may comprise an inlet conduit that spaces the inlet from the housing and / or an outlet conduit that spaces the outlet from the storage space. The inlet conduit and / or the outlet conduit may protrude through one of the walls of the housing. The respective conduit may extend between the suction device and the inlet or outlet, respectively, and fluidly connect the inlet or outlet to the suction device.

[0028] The storage space may be provided with one or more storage containers. The collection device may be fluidly connectable one or more storage containers via the outlet. The collection device may be configured to collect fluid samples and to provide samples in selected storage containers. The collection device may comprise a distribution system configured to select a storage container for the sample and to fluidly connect the outlet with the selected storage container, e.g. by moving the outlet with respect to the storage containers such that the sample is provided in the selected storage container. The outlet may e.g. be moved above the selected storage container and / or the selected storage container may be moved underneath the outlet.

[0029] The collection device may be provided in the housing, e.g. near the storage space, or outside of the housing. Advantageously, the collection device may be provided above the storage space, such that, upon collecting a sample, the sample may flow into one or more selected storage containers may means of gravity.

[0030] The collection device may be configured to collect a predetermined amount of fluid, e.g. periodically. The collection device may comprise a metering device, configured to provide a metering signal representative for an amount of fluid collected. The metering device may for example comprise a flow meter, a moisture sensor or conductive contacts that are electrically connectable by a conductive sampling liquid (e.g. when a certain level of collected fluid is reached). The suction device may be configured to collect a sample in dependence on the metering signal.

[0031] The conditioning unit may be configured to control the temperature in the storage space to be relatively constant, for example less than 10 °C, such as less than 5 °C. Control may be performed on the basis of threshold values, a temperature prediction, a fixed schedule, PID control or in another way. The conditioning unit may comprise a temperature sensor and / or be configured to be connected to a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may be provided in the detachable wall portion, in a controller and / or near the storage space, for example therein. Multiple temperature sensors may be provided.

[0032] The conditioning unit may comprise a separate cooling device and / or a separate heating device. The heating device may comprise a heat pump, heating cable and / or another heating element type. Additionally or alternatively, a heat pump may be configured to operate in two modes, e.g. to provide for heating and cooling.

[0033] The stationary insulating portion may form a relatively large part of the housing and thereby form a mounting base for other components. For example, the collection device may be mounted to the stationary insulating portion, e.g. in the storage space. The evaporator, the condenser and / or the temperature conductive surface may comprise inox steel, e.g. grade 316 inox steel.

[0034] In an embodiment, the detachable conditioning wall portion is arrangeable in a wall of the housing, e.g. an upper wall, a side wall or a rear wall. It has been found that these sides are often easily accessible, such that the detachable conditioning wall portion can be replaced relatively easily.

[0035] The conditioning wall portion may be adjacent to the storage space. As such, the conditioning may be performed relatively efficiently. The storage space may be conditioned relatively direct, e.g. by direct contact between the storage space and the conditioning wall portion and / or without potentially insulating volumes between the storage space and the conditioning wall portion. This way, conditioning may e.g. be performed by direct radiation, convection and / or conduction.

[0036] The storage space may for example be formed by an interior defined by at least a part of the insulating portion and at least a part of the conditioning wall portion. The surfaces of the insulating portion and the conditioning wall portion may delimited the sample space.

[0037] The conditioning unit may be configured to condition the storage space substantially, for example completely, on the basis of natural circulation. The storage space may be conditioned such that no forced air circulation through or past the storage pace and / or the conditioning wall potion is required. For example, the conditioning unit may be configured to perform conditioning without fan.

[0038] The conditioning wall portion may span at least 50%, such as at least 75% of a surface area of the respective wall. This way, the conditioning unit may span a relatively large surface, which has been found to be advantageous for even cooling and / or efficiency.

[0039] The housing may comprise an access door that is movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the access door is configured to provide access to the storage space in the open position. The access door may be arranged in the stationary insulating portion and / or in the detachable conditioning wall portion.

[0040] In an embodiment, the fluid sampler comprises a temperature conductive surface arranged on the conditioning wall portion such that, in the attached position, the temperature conductive surface is arranged between the storage space and the conditioning unit. The conditioning unit is configured to add or remove heat from inside the storage space via the conductive surface, e.g. without mass flow into and / or out of the storage space.

[0041] The temperature conductive surface may be substantially fluid tight, for example substantially gas tight and / or liquid tight. The conditioning unit may be arranged such that temperature control of the storage space may be performed via the temperature conductive surface, e.g. by means of radiation, conduction and / or convection, without mass flow out of the storage space. Temperature control may be performed may means of natural air circulation within the storage space. Alternatively, a fan may be provided for force air circulation past the temperature conductive surface, e.g. on the detachable conditioning wall or within the storage space.

[0042] The temperature conductive surface may be made of a metal. The temperature conductive surface may comprise inox, such as 316 grade inox.

[0043] Additionally and / or alternatively, the evaporator, the condenser and / or the temperature conductive surface comprise inox steel, e.g. grade 316 inox steel. Compared to materials in prior art devices, such as copper or aluminium, better protection may be provided. In particular, the protection may be such that no coating may be required for corrosion resistance. The evaporator, the condenser and / or the temperature conductive surface comprise may be provided without a protective coating, e.g. without a powder coating. As such, less coating maintenance may be required and costs may be saved. Further, it has been fond that the advantage of inox is that it allows to provide corrosion resistance for corrosion originating from inside the device, where it would be impossible to reapply or maintain a powder coating on the inside in a prior art device.

[0044] Especially in wastewater sampling installations, corrosive gases may be present in the environment and / or be emitted from the samples. The conductive surface may protect the conditioning unit and thereby potentially limit corrosion.

[0045] In an embodiment, the temperature conductive surface spans at least 50%, such as at least 75% of a surface area of the detachable conditioning wall surface that faces the storage space in the attached position.

[0046] It has been found that, in prior art samplers, especially in warmer environments or when evaporation from the samples occurs, ice may build-up against the conditioning unit. By having a relatively large conditioning surface, a sufficiently large heat transfer between the storage space and the conditioning wall may be achieved at a relatively small temperature difference between the conductive surface and the storage space.

[0047] Therewith, the temperature may be controlled more constantly and ice build-up may be reduced.

[0048] In an embodiment, the temperature conductive surface is substantially flat. This way, build-up of dirt, ice and other deposits on the surface may be further reduced. Deposits may be unwanted as microbial growth may influence sampling results. In an embodiment, the detachable conditioning wall portion comprises an inner side that, in the attached position, faces the storage space and an opposite outer side that, in the attached position, faces away from the storage space, wherein the detachable conditioning wall portion comprises an insulating portion that separates the inner side and the outer side. This way, the detachable conditioning wall may be insulated like the thermally insulated storage space. The conditioning unit may comprise a heat pump.

[0049] The conditioning unit may comprise a compressor, a condenser and an evaporator that are fluidly connected to each other, wherein the evaporator is provided at the inner side and wherein the condenser is provided at the outer side.

[0050] The inner side of the detachable conditioning wall portion may comprise one or more grooves. In an embodiment, the inner side comprises a groove, the evaporator is embedded in the groove, and wherein the temperature conductive surface is arranged adjacent to the embedded evaporator. The inner side may comprise multiple grooves, that are e.g. parallel to each other, e.g. connected to each other.

[0051] The evaporator may be mounted to the detachable conditioning wall relatively easily by providing it in the grooves. The temperature conductive surface may be configured to be arranged over the grooves to substantially enclose the evaporator between the grooves and the conductive surface.

[0052] The evaporator may be embedded in temperature conductive gel. The gel may be substantially fluid tight. This way, the gel may improve contact between the condenser and the temperature conductive surface. Additionally or alternatively, the gel may contribute to the corrosion protection of the condenser.

[0053] In an embodiment, the detachable conditioning wall portion comprises a cavity on the outer side, and the compressor and / or condenser are provided in the cavity.

[0054] The cavity may be shaped to protect the compressor and / or the condenser from environmental influences, such as precipitation. The cavity may for example be IP-rated, e.g. IP44 rated, IP 65-rated or even higher IP ratings may be possible due to the arrangement of the compressor, condenser and possible associated electrical components in the cavity.

[0055] In an embodiment, the conditioning unit comprises a compressor and / or electronics arranged in an elevated position. In an embodiment, the detachable conditioning wall portion comprises a bottom area and a top area that, in the attached position, is arranged above the bottom area, wherein the conditioning unit comprises electronics and / or a compressor, wherein the electronics and / or the compressor, in the attached position, are arranged in the top area, e.g. wherein the electronics and / or the compressor are arranged above an evaporator and / or above a condenser of the conditioning unit. It has been found that this way, the compressor and / or electronics may be provided some protection, e.g. against corrosive gasses that have a higher density than air. Further, it has been found that the elevated position of the compressor and / or electronics contributes to the safety of the device, as in case of a leak, the refrigerant, which will usually have a higher density than air, will be allowed to flow away from the compressor and / or electronics. This way, a flammable refrigerant, such as propane, may be used relatively safety. Normally, the use of a flammable refrigerant would require a very large ventilation space of several cubical meters. By having the lower position, flammable refrigerant may flow away towards the environment such that the sampler can be provided in a smaller space, and the advantage of propane, i.e. the relatively low GWP can be provided by the sampler.

[0056] In particular, the use of a flammable refrigerant may allow a very low refrigerant quantity to be used. For example, the refrigerant amount may be less than 100 grams, such as less than 50 g, for example 35 g or less.

[0057] The top area may be arranged at least partially above the condenser and / or the evaporator. In particular, the top area may be arranged completely above the evaporator. The cavity on the outer side may be arranged in the top area. It has been found that this way, both water ingress protection, protection against corrosive gases and additional safety for flammable coolants may be provided synergistically.

[0058] In an embodiment, the conditioning unit comprises a coolant, and the coolant is flammable. The fluid sampler according to the invention, having reliability, maintainability and / or safety, advantageously is better suited for the use of relatively flammable coolants, in contrast with the prior art. For example, the coolant may be R290, i.e. propane. Propane has been found to be relatively environmentally friendly, e.g. having a relatively low global warming potential (GWP) and no potentially harmful PFAS or PFOA.

[0059] In an embodiment, the fluid sampler comprises a cover seat and a cover configured to, when provided in the cover seat, cover the cavity to provide water ingress protection to the cavity, wherein the detachable conditioning wall portion is provided with at least one air duct recess which allows airflow into and / or out of the cavity via the air duct recess upon mounting of the cover, wherein the air duct recess extends on the outer side into the cavity in a direction having a vertical component. The air duct recess for example extends past the cover seat. The air duct may be fluidly connected to the cavity. The air duct may allow coolant, in case of a leak, to flow out of the cavity. By having a vertical component, fluids, for example specific coolants, having a relatively higher density than air will naturally flow out of the cavity. As such, safety is improved, in particular when using flammable coolants. By having the cover having the air duct recess, the ingress protection may be further improved, whereas environment airflow past the conditioning unit remains possible.

[0060] On sampling locations, space may be limited. Due to the recess, airflow may be allowed pas the detachable conditioning wall, even when positioned close to other objects or walls.

[0061] In an embodiment, the air duct recess further extends in a direction having an horizontal component up to the outer edge of the outer side. By having the recess extending past an outer edge, environmental air flow past the conditioning unit may be drawn in and let out past the outer edge, i.e. around a corner edge of the housing. As such, the detachable conditioning wall may be positioned against another object or wall.

[0062] Due to the recess, airflow may be allowed pas the detachable conditioning wall, even when positioned close to other objects or walls.

[0063] In an embodiment, the fluid sampler comprises two air duct recesses, that each extend into the cavity to form a respective separate inlet duct and outlet duct, wherein the conditioning unit comprises a ventilator and wherein the ventilator is provided in the cavity between the inlet duct and the outlet duct. The recesses may extend from opposite outer edges of the outer side. The ventilator may be a blower and / or an extractor fan.

[0064] By having a separate inlet and outlet duct, air may be drawn in on one side of the housing and let out on an opposite side of the housing.

[0065] In an embodiment, the inner side, the outer side and the insulating portion of the detachable conditioning wall are made of the same material and wherein the insulating portion comprises a foamed variant of the material.

[0066] In prior art systems, the insulation is relatively difficult to separate from the housing, complicating recycling. It has been found that by using a foamed version of the same insulation may be provided whereas the housing remains well-recyclable.

[0067] In an embodiment, the inner and outer sides and the insulating portion of the detachable conditioning wall are made of polyethene and foamed polyethene, respectively. This material provides an advantageous combination of economic manufacturing and insulation.

[0068] In an embodiment, the housing comprises at least one channel that extends substantially parallel to a surface of the housing, wherein the fluid sampler further comprises a reinforcement profile arranged in the channel. The reinforcement profile may be slidably arranged in the channel. This way, recycling remains relatively easy, while strength is increased to resist unwanted deformation, e.g. bending of the housing. Further, strength of the housing may be improved, even when having a relatively large detachable conditioning wall portion. As such, bending of the housing, for example due to environmental influences, e.g. temperature changes or UV light, may be limited to further decrease the maintenance required to the fluid sampler.

[0069] It has been found that a fluid sampler having one or more of the features of the embodiments described herein allows for relatively reliable use, requiring relatively low maintenance and or having a relatively high lifespan, is relatively efficient, relatively easy to repair and / or recycle and / or is suitable for relatively environmentally friendly coolants. Therefore a fluid sampler having one or more of the features of the embodiments described herein, but without a housing comprising a stationary insulating portion and a detachable conditioning wall portion may also provide benefits as described herein and may be made subject of divisional patent applications.

[0070] For example, various advantages with respect to reliability, maintenance, lifespan, efficiency, repairability, recycling and / or environmentally friendliness as described herein may be achieved by embodiments of a fluid sampler for automatic sampling from a fluid reservoir, for example a wastewater reservoir, comprising:

[0071] - a housing which delimits a thermally insulated storage space for storing samples;

[0072] - a collection device associated with the storage space and comprising an inlet to be provided in a fluid reservoir, and comprising an outlet, wherein the collection device is configured to collect fluid samples from the fluid reservoir via the inlet and to provide collected samples to the storage space for storage via the outlet; and

[0073] - a conditioning unit configured to control a temperature in the storage space; wherein the housing comprises a bottom area and a top area that is arranged above the bottom area, wherein the conditioning unit comprises electronics and / or a compressor, wherein the electronics and / or the compressor are arranged in the top area, e.g. wherein the electronics and / or the compressor are arranged above an evaporator and / or above a condenser of the conditioning unit.

[0074] Additionally and / or alternatively, various advantages with respect to reliability, maintenance, lifespan, efficiency, repairability, recycling and / or environmentally friendliness as described herein may be achieved by embodiments of a fluid sampler for automatic sampling from a fluid reservoir, for example a wastewater reservoir, comprising:

[0075] - a housing which delimits a thermally insulated storage space for storing samples;

[0076] - a collection device associated with the storage space and comprising an inlet to be provided in a fluid reservoir, and comprising an outlet, wherein the collection device is configured to collect fluid samples from the fluid reservoir via the inlet and to provide collected samples to the storage space for storage via the outlet; and

[0077] - a conditioning unit configured to control a temperature in the storage space; comprising a temperature conductive surface arranged on the conditioning wall portion such that the temperature conductive surface is arranged between the storage space and the conditioning unit, wherein the conditioning unit is configured to add or remove heat from inside the storage space via the conductive surface, e.g. without mass flow into and / or out of the storage space, wherein the temperature conductive surface comprises inox steel, e.g. grade 316 inox steel.

[0078] It has been found that a fluid sampler using grade 316 inox steel may reduce the chances of corrosion leakage and thus has a potentially increased lifespan with reduced maintenance and / or may be better suited for flammable coolants due to the reduced leakage risk.

[0079] Additionally and / or alternatively, various advantages with respect to reliability, maintenance, lifespan, efficiency, repairability, recycling and / or environmentally friendliness as described herein may be achieved by embodiments of a fluid sampler for automatic sampling from a fluid reservoir, for example a wastewater reservoir, comprising:

[0080] - a housing which delimits a thermally insulated storage space for storing samples;

[0081] - a collection device associated with the storage space and comprising an inlet to be provided in a fluid reservoir, and comprising an outlet, wherein the collection device is configured to collect fluid samples from the fluid reservoir via the inlet and to provide collected samples to the storage space for storage via the outlet; and

[0082] - a conditioning unit configured to control a temperature in the storage space; wherein housing comprises a stationary insulating portion is made of a material and wherein the insulating portion comprises a foamed variant of the material, for example, wherein the insulating portion is made of polyethene and foamed polyethene.

[0083] It has been found that his way, structural strength and insulation may be combined by using both a material and a foamed variant of the same material. As such, a fluid sampler having improved recyclability may be provided.

[0084] According to another aspect, the invention provides a fluid treatment or discharge installation, such as a water treatment or discharge installation, comprising:

[0085] - a fluid reservoir, for example a wastewater reservoir; and

[0086] - a fluid sampler according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0087] The inlet of the fluid sampler may be fluidly connectable, e.g. connected, to the fluid reservoir.

[0088] According to another aspect, the invention provides a method for sampling from a fluid reservoir, for example a wastewater reservoir, using a fluid sampler according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein and / or using a fluid treatment or discharge installation according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0089] According to another aspect, the invention provides a method for commissioning a fluid sampler comprising the steps of: optionally, removing a faulty conditioning wall portion from the stationary insulating portion of the housing; and attaching the conditioning unit of the sampler by attaching the conditioning wall portion to the stationary insulating portion of the housing, and thereby enclosing the storage space.

[0090] In an embodiment, the method is performed using a fluid sampler according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0091] The fluid treatment or discharge installation, the method for sampling and the method for commissioning may be provided in or performed with different embodiments as disclosed herein for the water sampler and the corresponding advantages are similar to the advantages as described for the respective embodiment of the water sampler as described herein.

[0092] Brief description of drawings

[0093] Further characteristics of the invention will be explained below, with reference to embodiments, which are displayed in the appended drawings, in which:

[0094] Figure 1A schematically depicts a fluid sampler according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0095] Figure 1B schematically depicts a fluid sampler according to Fig. 1A, wherein an access door is arranged in the open position to provide access to the storage space;

[0096] Figure 1C schematically depicts a rear view, in perspective, of the fluid sampler according to Fig. 1A.

[0097] Figure 2A schematically depicts a detachable conditioning wall portion that is arrangeable in the fluid sampler of Fig. 1A, as seen from the outer side;

[0098] Figure 2B schematically depicts the detachable wall portion from Fig. 2A, seen from the inner side; and

[0099] Figure 2C schematically depicts a rear view of the detachable wall portion of Fig. 2A, wherein the cover is removed from the cover seat;

[0100] Figure 2D schematically depicts the detachable wall portion from Fig. 2B, wherein the temperature conductive surface is hidden; Figure 2E schematically depicts a side view of a cross section of the detachable wall portion of Fig. 2B;

[0101] Figure 2F schematically depicts a detailed view of section F of Fig. 2E.

[0102] Throughout the figures, the same reference numerals are used to refer to corresponding components or to components that have a corresponding function.

[0103] Detailed description of embodiments

[0104] Figure 1A schematically depicts a fluid sampler 1 for automatic sampling from a fluid reservoir, in particular a wastewater sampler for sampling from a wastewater reservoir, comprising a housing 10 which delimits a thermally insulated storage space 11 for storing samples. The housing 10 comprises thermally insulated walls 16, 17, 18 that delimit and completely surround the storage space 11.

[0105] The fluid sampler 1 comprises a collection device 2 associated with the storage space 11 and comprising an inlet (not shown) to be provided in a fluid reservoir and an outlet 21.

[0106] The collection device 2 is configured to collect fluid samples from the fluid reservoir via the inlet and to provide collected samples to the storage space for storage via the outlet 21. The collection device 2 comprises a controller 20 and is configured to periodically collect fluid samples, hourly, daily and / or weekly. The collection device 2 comprises a suction device, in particular a pump, (not shown) fluidly connectable to the inlet and to the outlet and configured to provide suction at the inlet for pumping a sample through the inlet. The collection device 2 is configured to periodically collect a predetermined amount of fluid and comprises a metering device, configured to provide a metering signal representative for an amount of fluid collected. The metering device comprises multiple conductive contacts that are electrically connectable by a conductive sampling liquid (e.g. when a certain level of collected fluid is reached), but may additionally or alternatively comprise a flow meter, a moisture sensor or another sensor. The suction device is configured to collect a sample in dependence on the metering signal.

[0107] The storage space 11 is provided with one or more storage containers 9. The outlet 21 is movable by rotation upon a selected storage container 9, such that collection device 3 is fluidly connectable to the one or more storage containers 9 via the outlet 21. The collection device 2 is configured to collect fluid samples and to provide samples in selected storage containers 9.

[0108] The housing 10 comprises an access door arranged in the front wall 18 that is movable between an open position depicted in Fig. 1 B and a closed position depicted in Fig. 1A, and that is configured to provide access to the storage space 11 in the open position, such that storage containers 9 can be removed and / or replaced. The conditioning unit 3 is configured to control a temperature in the storage space 11 to be relatively constant, in particular less than 10 °C, more particular less than 5°C. The controller is configured to selectively control on the basis of threshold values, a temperature prediction, a fixed schedule, PID control and / or in another way. The conditioning unit 3 comprises a temperature sensor 37 in the detachable wall portion 13. In other embodiments, the sensor may be provided in the controller 20 and / or in the storage space 11. Multiple temperature sensors may be provided.

[0109] The housing 10 comprises a stationary insulating portion 12 and a detachable conditioning wall portion 13 that is arrangeable in a wall of the housing 10, in particular in a rear wall 15 thereof, in an attached position in which the insulating portion 12 and the conditioning wall portion together enclose the storage space 11 to be conditioned with the conditioning unit 3. Additionally or alternatively, the conditioning wall portion 13 may be arrangeable in an upper wall, a side wall and / or multiple conditioning wall portions may be provided. The conditioning wall portion spans at least 50%, in particular at least 75% of the surface area of the rear wall 15. The conditioning wall portion 13, in the attached position, is adjacent to the storage space 11 such that the storage space 11 can be conditioned relatively direct by direct contact between the storage space 11 and the conditioning wall portion 13 and without potentially insulating volumes between the storage space 11 and the conditioning wall portion 13. The storage space 11 in this embodiment is formed by an interior defined by a part of the insulating portion 12 and the conditioning wall portion 13.

[0110] In other embodiments, the detachable conditioning wall portion 13 is arrangeable in a detached position in which the housing 10 is opened as the insulating portion 12 and the conditioning wall portion 13 are separated from each other.

[0111] The stationary insulating portion 12 forms a relatively large part of the housing 10 and thereby forms a mounting base for other components, such as the collection device 2 which is mounted to the stationary insulating portion 12 and in the storage space 11.

[0112] The fluid sampler 1 comprises a substantially flat temperature conductive surface 4 arranged on the conditioning wall portion 13 such that, in the attached position, the temperature conductive surface is arranged between the storage space 11 and the conditioning unit 3. The conditioning unit 3 is configured to add or remove heat from inside the storage space 11 via the conductive surface 4 without mass flow into and / or out of the storage space 11. The evaporator, the condenser and the temperature conductive surface comprise inox steel, in particular grade 316 inox steel. The temperature conductive surface is made of inox steel, e.g. 316 inox, and substantially fluid tight, in particular substantially gas tight and / or liquid tight. The conditioning unit 3 is arranged such that temperature control of the storage space 11 is performed via the temperature conductive surface 4, e.g. by means of radiation, conduction and / or convection, without mass flow out of the storage space. Temperature control is performed may means of natural air circulation within the storage space 11. Alternatively, a fan may be provided for force air circulation past the temperature conductive surface 4, e.g. on the detachable conditioning wall or within the storage space 11.

[0113] The temperature conductive surface 4 spans at least 50%, in particular at least 75% of a surface area of the detachable conditioning wall surface 13 that faces the storage space 11 in the attached position.

[0114] The detachable conditioning wall portion 13 comprises an inner side 31 that, in the attached position, faces the storage space 11 and an opposite outer side 32 that, in the attached position, faces away from the storage space 11. The detachable conditioning wall portion 13 comprises an insulating portion 33 that separates the inner side 31 and the outer side 32.

[0115] The conditioning unit 3 comprises a cooling device 34, 35, 36 and a separate heating device 38. The heating device 38 comprises a heating cable arranged at the inner side 31, for example in a groove 5. Additionally or alternatively, the cooling device 34, 35, 36 is configured to operate in two modes, e.g. to provide for heating and cooling.

[0116] The conditioning unit 3 comprises a compressor 34, a condenser 35 and an evaporator 36 that are fluidly connected to each other. The detachable conditioning wall portion comprises a cavity 6 on the outer side 32. The evaporator 36 is provided at the inner side 31 and the compressor 34 and the condenser 35 are provided in the cavity 6 at the outer side 32. The conditioning unit 3 is configured to condition the storage space 11 on the basis of natural circulation, such that in this embodiment in principle no fan is required to induce forced air circulation past the storage space 11 or the conditioning wall portion 13. The conditioning unit 3 comprises a compressor 34 and electronics arranged in an elevated position. The detachable conditioning wall portion 13 comprises a bottom area and a top area, and the compressor and electronics are arranged in the cavity 6 in the top area.

[0117] The conditioning unit 3 comprises a flammable coolant, in particular R290, in a quantity of less than 100 grams, in particular 33 g. However other coolants and / or other quantities may be provided.

[0118] The inner side 31 comprises multiple a grooves 5 in which the evaporator 36 is embedded. The temperature conductive surface 4 is arranged adjacent to the embedded evaporator 36, as shown in Fig. 2E and 2F.

[0119] The fluid sampler 1 comprises a cover seat 61 and a cover 62 configured to, when provided in the cover seat 61 , cover the cavity 6 to provide water ingress protection to the cavity 6, such that the cavity 6 is IP44-rated.

[0120] The detachable conditioning wall portion 13 is provided with two air duct recesses 63, 63’ which each extend in a direction having a vertical component on the outer side 32 past the cover seat 61 to allow airflow into and / or out of the cavity 6 upon mounting of the cover 62, while having at least IP-44 ingress protection, e.g. IP-65 ingress protection or even higher ingress protection.

[0121] The air duct recesses 63, 63’ further extend in a direction having a horizontal component up to opposite outer edges of the outer side 32 to form a respective separate inlet duct 63 and outlet duct 63’. The conditioning unit 3 comprises a ventilator 64 configured to provide an air flow through in the cavity 6 between via the inlet duct 63 and the outlet duct 63’. The air duct recesses 63, 63’ are fluidly connected to the cavity 6 and allow coolant, in case of a leak, to flow out of the cavity 6.

[0122] The inner side 31 , the outer side 32 and the insulating portion 33 of the detachable conditioning wall 13 are made of the same polyethene material and the insulating portion comprises a foamed variant of the material, in particular foamed polyethene. This way, the sampler may be recycled relatively well as the housing comprises solely of polyethylene.

[0123] The housing comprises at least one channel 14 that extends substantially parallel to an outer surface of an outer side 16, 18 of the housing 10. The fluid sampler further comprises a reinforcement profile 15 arranged in the channel 14.

[0124] The fluid sampler 1 may be used for automatic sampling of fluids, e.g. effluent, in a water treatment or discharge installation, by fluidly connecting the inlet to a fluid reservoir of the water treatment or discharge installation for example a wastewater reservoir.

[0125] In use, the fluid sampler may be commissioned, e.g. for maintenance, by optionally, removing a faulty conditioning wall portion 13 from the stationary insulating portion 12 of the housing 10; and providing temperature control to the sampler 1 by attaching a conditioning unit 3 by attachment of the conditioning wall portion 13 to the stationary insulating portion 12 of the housing 10, and thereby enclosing the storage space 11.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . Fluid sampler (1) for automatic sampling from a fluid reservoir, for example a wastewater reservoir, comprising:- a housing (10) which delimits a thermally insulated storage space (11) for storing samples;- a collection device (2) associated with the storage space and comprising an inlet to be provided in a fluid reservoir, and comprising an outlet, wherein the collection device is configured to collect fluid samples from the fluid reservoir via the inlet and to provide collected samples to the storage space for storage via the outlet; and- a conditioning unit (3) configured to control a temperature in the storage space; wherein the housing (10) comprises a stationary insulating portion (12) and a detachable conditioning wall portion (13) that is arrangeable in an attached position in which the insulating portion and the conditioning wall portion together enclose the storage space to be conditioned with the conditioning unit, and in a detached position in which the housing is opened as the insulated portion and the conditioning wall portion are separated from each other, and wherein the conditioning unit (3) is provided in the detachable conditioning wall portion (13).

2. Fluid sampler according to claim 1 , wherein the detachable conditioning wall portion is arrangeable in a wall of the housing, e.g. a rear wall (15), an upper wall (16) or a side wall (17), and wherein the conditioning wall portion is adjacent to the storage space.

3. Fluid sampler according to claim 1 or 2, wheren the storage space is formed by an interior defined by the insulating portion and the conditioning wall portion.

4. Fluid sampler according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the conditioning unit is configured to condition the storage space substantially on the basis of natural circulation, e.g. without forced air circulation.

5. Fluid sampler according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the detachable conditioning wall portion comprises a bottom area and a top area that, in the attached position, is arranged above the bottom area, wherein the conditioning unit comprises electronics and / or a compressor, wherein the electronics and / or the compressor, in the attached position, are arranged in the top area, e.g. wherein the electronics and / orthe compressor are arranged above an evaporator and / or above a condenser of the conditioning unit.

6. Fluid sampler according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the conditioning unit(3) comprises a coolant, and wherein the coolant is flammable, e.g. wherein the coolant is R290.

7. Fluid sampler according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a temperature conductive surface (4) arranged on the conditioning wall portion (13) such that, in the attached position, the temperature conductive surface is arranged between the storage space (11) and the conditioning unit (3), wherein the conditioning unit is configured to add or remove heat from inside the storage space via the conductive surface, e.g. without mass flow into and / or out of the storage space.

8. Fluid sampler according to the preceding claim, wherein the temperature conductive surface (4) spans at least 50%, such as at least 75% of a surface area of the detachable conditioning wall surface (13) that faces the storage space in the attached position.

9. Fluid sampler according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the temperature conductive surface(4) is substantially flat.

10. Fluid sampler according to any of the claims 6 - 8, wherein the temperature conductive surface (4) is substantially fluid tight.

11. Fluid sampler according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the detachable conditioning wall portion comprises an inner side (31) that, in the attached position, faces the storage space and an opposite outer side (32) that, in the attached position, faces away from the storage space, wherein the detachable conditioning wall portion (13) comprises an insulating portion (33) that separates the inner side and the outer side, and wherein the conditioning unit comprises a compressor (34), a condenser (35) and an evaporator (36) that are fluidly connected to each other, wherein the evaporator is provided at the inner side (31) and wherein the condenser (35) is provided at the outer side.

12. Fluid sampler according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the inner side (31) comprises a groove (5), wherein the evaporator (36) is embedded in the groove, andwherein the temperature conductive surface (4) is arranged adjacent to the embedded evaporator.

13. Fluid sampler according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the evaporator, the condenser and / or the temperature conductive surface comprise inox steel, e.g. grade 316 inox steel.

14. Fluid sampler according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the detachable conditioning wall portion comprises a cavity (6) on the outer side, and wherein the compressor (34) and / or condenser (35) are provided in the cavity, e.g. wherein the cavity is IP-rated.

15. Fluid sampler according to the preceding claim, further comprising a cover seat (61) and a cover (62) configured to, when provided in the cover seat, cover the cavity (6), e.g. to provide water ingress protection to the cavity, wherein the detachable conditioning wall portion (13) is provided with at least one air duct recess (63, 63’) which allows airflow into and / or out of the cavity (6) via the air duct recess upon mounting of the cover, wherein the air duct recess (63, 63’) extends on the outer side into the cavity in a direction having a vertical component.

16. Fluid sampler according to the preceding claim, wherein the air duct recess (63, 63’) further extends in a direction having a horizontal component up to the outer edge of the outer side (32).

17. Fluid sampler according to the preceding claim, comprising two air duct recesses (63, 63’), that each extend into the cavity (6) to form a respective separate inlet duct and outlet duct, wherein the fluid sampler further (3) comprises a ventilator (64) configured to provide an air flow through the cavity via the inlet duct and the outlet duct.

18. Fluid sampler according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the inner side (31), the outer side (32) and the insulating portion (33) of the detachable conditioning wall portion are made of the same material and wherein the insulating portion comprises a foamed variant of the material.

19. Fluid sampler according to the preceding claim, wherein the inner and outer sides (31 , 32) and the insulating portion (33) of the detachable conditioning wall are made of polyethene and foamed polyethene, respectively.

20. Fluid sampler according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the housing comprises at least one channel (14) that extends substantially parallel to a surface of the housing, wherein the fluid sampler further comprises a reinforcement profile (15) arranged in the channel.

21. Fluid treatment or discharge installation, comprising:- a fluid reservoir, for example a wastewater reservoir; and- a fluid sampler according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the inlet of the fluid sampler is fluidly connectable to the fluid reservoir.

22. Method for sampling from a fluid reservoir, for example a wastewater reservoir, using a fluid sampler according to any of the claims 1-19 and / or a fluid treatment or discharge installation according to claim 20.

23. Method for commissioning a fluid sampler, e.g. according to any of the claims 1-19, comprising the steps of: optionally, removing a conditioning wall portion from the stationary insulating portion of the housing; and providing temperature control to the fluid sampler by attaching a conditioning unit, by attachment of the conditioning wall portion to the stationary insulating portion of the housing, and thereby enclosing the storage space.

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