Devices, systems and methods for fluid quality analysis and monitoring

Abstract

According to some embodiments, an automated system for analyzing a fluid to be tested comprises a pretreatment module configured to receive a raw fluid sample and to modify at least one aspect of at least a portion of the raw fluid sample, at least one fluid distribution member configured to receive fluid exiting the pretreatment module, a first automated testing module in fluid communication with the at least one fluid distribution member, the first automated testing module being configured to receive a volume of fluid from the at least one fluid distribution member and analyze said volume of fluid for a first analyte or parameter, and a second automated testing module in fluid communication with the at least one fluid distribution member, the second automated testing module being configured to receive a volume of fluid from the at least one fluid distribution member and analyze said volume of fluid for a second analyte or parameter

Description

KET.021WO PATENT DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FLUID QUALITY ANALYSIS AND MONITORING CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONSThis application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63 / 777572, filed March 25, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.BACKGROUNDField

[0001] The present application relates generally to methods and systems for use in fluid analysis. In particular, several embodiments relate to methods and systems for the measurement, approximation and / or monitoring of certain contaminants (e.g., concentrations thereof), other materials and / or other properties in water or other fluid samples.Description of the Related Art

[0002] Knowledge of water quality can be important to the health of humans, animals, and plants dependent on that water, whether the water is for drinking, manufacturing, or farming, water from a natural source such as a lake, river, or ocean, or wastewater.SUMMARY

[0003] According to some embodiments, an automated system for analyzing a fluid to be tested comprises an automated pretreatment module for receiving and treating a raw fluid sample, wherein the automated pretreatment module modifies a solids content of the raw fluid sample, wherein the automated pretreatment module is further configured to perform a digestion or other physical, chemical and / or biological modification of the raw fluid sample, at least one fluid distribution member that receives at least a portion of treated fluid exiting the automated pretreatment module, a first automated testing module receiving a first volume of treated fluid from the at least one fluid distribution member, the first testing module configured to analyze the first volume of treated fluid for a first analyte or parameter, a second automated testing module receiving a second volume of treated fluid from the at least one fluid distribution member, the second testing module configured to analyze the second volume of treated fluid for a second analyte orparameter, wherein the first analyte or parameter is different that the second analyte or parameter, and an electronics box in communication with the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module to automatically analyze and determine a quantitative value associated with the first analyte or parameter and the second analyte or parameter.

[0004] According to some embodiments, the automated pretreatment module modifies the solids contact of the raw fluid sample using at least one of the following: sand or other media filtration, membrane filtration and another solids separation technology.

[0005] According to some embodiments, the automated pretreatment module is configured to modify at least one additional aspect of the raw fluid sample, wherein the at least one additional aspect comprises one or more of the following: a pH of the raw fluid sample, a disinfection of the raw fluid sample, and a dilution of the raw fluid sample.

[0006] According to some embodiments, the automated system further comprises a consumables module or subsystem for receiving a plurality of containers that contain at least one reagent and / or other material. In some embodiments, the consumables module or subsystem is configured to deliver the at least one reagent and / or other material to the automated pretreatment module to facilitate treating the raw fluid sample. In some embodiments, the consumables module or subsystem is configured to deliver the at least one reagent and / or other material to at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module.

[0007] According to some embodiments, an automated sy stem for analyzing a fluid to be tested comprises an automated pretreatment module configured to receive a raw fluid sample and to modify at least one aspect of at least a portion of the raw fluid sample, at least one fluid distribution member configured to receive fluid exiting the pretreatment module, a first automated testing module in fluid communication with the at least one fluid distribution member, the first testing module configured to receive a volume of fluid from the at least one fluid distribution member and analyze said volume of fluid for a first analyte or parameter, a second automated testing module in fluid communication with the at least one fluid distribution member, the second testing module configured to receive a volume of fluid from the at least one fluid distribution member and analyze said volume of fluid for a second analyte or parameter, and an electronics box in communication with the first automated testing module and the automated secondtesting module to automatically analyze and determine a quantitative value associated with the first analyte or parameter and the second analyte or parameter.

[0008] According to some embodiments, the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified by the automated pretreatment module comprises a solids content of the raw fluid sample, wherein the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified by the automated pretreatment module comprises a digestion and / or other physical, chemical and / or biological modification of the raw fluid sample, and wherein at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module comprises a transfer of at least one reagent and / or other material to the first testing module and / or the second testing module.

[0009] According to some embodiments, the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified by the automated pretreatment module comprises a solids content of the raw fluid sample. In some embodiments, the solid contents of the raw fluid sample is modified by the automated pretreatment module using filtration (e.g., membrane filtration, media filtration, multi-stage media filtration, other filtration or solids separation technology, sponge, etc.).

[0010] According to some embodiments, the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified by the automated pretreatment module comprises a digestion and / or other physical, chemical and / or biological modification of the raw fluid sample.

[0011] According to some embodiments, at least one oxidizing agent and / or other chemical is configured to be delivered to the automated pretreatment module to assist digestion and / or other modification of the raw fluid sample.

[0012] According to some embodiments, the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified by the automated pretreatment module comprises a pH (e.g., using chemical addition to the raw fluid sample).

[0013] According to some embodiments, the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified by the automated pretreatment module comprises a concentration of the raw fluid sample. In some embodiments, the concentration of the raw fluid sample is adjusted by adding a volume of a dilution fluid to the raw fluid sample.

[0014] According to some embodiments, the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified by the automated pretreatment module comprises at least a partial breakdown, conversion or transformation of a component (e.g.. organic matter) of the raw fluid sample. In some embodiments, the at least a partial breakdown, conversionor transformation of a component of the raw fluid sample is performed by the automated pretreatment module using the administration of light or energy to the raw fluid sample. In some embodiments, the administration of light or energy comprises the administration of ultraviolet (UV) light, other light, microwave energy, other energy, heat, etc. to the raw fluid sample.

[0015] According to some embodiments, the automated system further comprises a consumables module or subsystem for receiving a plurality of containers that contain at least one reagent and / or other material. In some embodiments, the consumables module or subsystem is configured to deliver the at least one reagent and / or other material to at least one of the following: the automated pretreatment module to facilitate treating the raw fluid sample, the first automated testing module, and the second automated testing module.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the first analyte or parameter is different than the second analyte or parameter. In other embodiments, the first analyte or parameter is the same as the second analyte or parameter.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the automated pretreatment module is configured to not modify a bypass volume of the raw fluid sample, such that said bypass volume is configured to exit the automated pretreatment module without modification by the automated pretreatment module.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the first or second analyte or parameter comprises a concentration or other quantitative value of at least one heavy metal or another metal (e.g., lead, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, mercury, nickel, selenium, zinc, other heavy metals, other metals, etc.). In some embodiments, the first or second analyte or parameter comprises detection of at least one of the following: pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), and electrical conductivity (EC).

[0019] According to some embodiments, at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module comprises an electrical sensing probe.

[0020] According to some embodiments, testing of the fluid to be tested within the first and second automated testing modules is performed, at least in part, in parallel and / or simultaneously.

[0021] According to some embodiments, at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module comprises a transfer of at leastone reagent and / or other material to the first automated testing module and / or the second automated testing module. In some embodiments, the transfer of the at least one reagent and / or other material to the first and / or the second automated testing module originates from a consumables module or subsystem. In some embodiments, the consumables module or subsystem is configured to receive a plurality of fluid containers that contain the at least one reagent and / or other material. In some embodiments, a volume of the at least one reagent and / or other material is configured to be transferred from the consumables module or subsystem to the first automated testing module and / or the second automated testing module using independent, fluidly isolated conduits or lines.

[0022] According to some embodiments, the automated system comprises and is operatively coupled to the consumables module or subsystem. In some embodiments, the consumables module or subsystem comprises at least one coupling to facilitate placing internal contents of containers positioned in the consumables module or subsystem in fluid communication with the first automated testing module and / or the second automated testing module.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the consumables module or subsystem is configured to receive at least one of the following: a bottle, a canister, a cartridge, a pouch and another ty pe of container.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the consumables module or subsystem is configured to detect a level of containers secured thereto. In some embodiments, the consumables module or subsystem is configured to detect the level using at least one optical sensor.

[0025] According to some embodiments, the consumables module or subsystem is configured to deliver at least one reagent, solution or other material to the automated pretreatment module. In some embodiments, the at least one reagent, solution or other materials is configured to be added to the raw fluid sample entering the automated pretreatment module to modify at least one aspect of at least a portion of the raw fluid sample.

[0026] According to some embodiments, at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module comprises mixing and / or thermal modification (e.g., heating, cooling) of the fluid to be tested.

[0027] According to some embodiments, at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module comprises spectrophotometry and / or spectroscopy.

[0028] According to some embodiments, at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module is configured to be cleaned (e.g., automatically) using backwashing or a similar cleaning method.

[0029] According to some embodiments, the first automated testing module is identical or similar to the second automated testing module, such that the first analyte or parameter is identical or similar to the second analyte or parameter. In some embodiments, the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module provide a degree of testing redundancy for the fluid to be tested.

[0030] According to some embodiments, the first automated testing module is different than the second automated testing module, such that the first analyte or parameter is different than the second analyte or parameter.

[0031] According to some embodiments, the system is configured to reduce a volume of waste generated by the system during testing. In some embodiments, the volume of waste generated by the system during testing is reduced via adjustment of at least one parameter or characteristic of the raw fluid sample. In some embodiments, the at least one parameter or characteristic of the raw fluid sample that is adjusted comprises at least one of the following: a pH, a dilution or a concentration and a solids content.

[0032] According to some embodiments, the system is configured to transfer a volume of raw fluid sample to the automated pretreatment module using at least one pump or other fluid transfer device.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the system comprises at least a third, a fourth or a fifth automated testing module.

[0034] According to some embodiments, a kit for analyzing a fluid to be tested comprises an automated pretreatment module for pretreating a fluid to be tested, a first automated testing module configured to receive a volume of treated fluid exiting the automated pretreatment module, the first testing module configured to analyze the treated fluid for a first analyte or parameter, and a second automated testing module configured to receive a volume of treated fluid exiting the automated pretreatment module, the second testing module configured to analyze the treated fluid for a second analyte or parameter. In some embodiments, the kit further comprises a consumables module or subsystem configured to receive a plurality of fluid containers that contain the at least one reagent and / or other material. In some embodiments, a volume of the at least one reagent and / or other material is configured to be transferred from the consumables module or subsystem to at least one of the automated pretreatment module, the first automatedtesting module and / or the second automated testing module.

[0035] According to some embodiments, a method of automatically analyzing a fluid using a fluid testing system comprises directing a volume of a raw fluid sample from a raw fluid source to an automated pretreatment module of the fluid testing system, modifying at least one aspect of at least a portion of the raw fluid sample using the automated pretreatment module, transferring a first volume of fluid exiting the pretreatment module to a first automated testing module, testing the first volume of fluid for a first analyte or parameter using the first automated testing module, transferring a second volume of fluid exiting the automated pretreatment module to a second testing module;

[0036] testing the second volume of fluid for a second analyte or parameter using the second automated testing module, and collecting data related to the testing of the first and second volumes of fluid.

[0037] According to some embodiments, modifying at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample comprises filtration, modifying at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample comprises subjecting the raw fluid sample to digestion and / or other physical, chemical and / or biological modification, and at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module is configured to receive at least one reagent or other material.

[0038] According to some embodiments, modifying at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample comprises filtration. In some embodiment, filtration comprises media filtration, membrane filtration and / or any other type of filtration or separation technology configured to remove solids from a fluid.

[0039] According to some embodiments, modifying at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample comprises subjecting the raw fluid sample to digestion and / or other physical, chemical and / or biological modification. In some embodiments, the methods further comprises delivering at least one oxidizing agent and / or another material to the pretreatment module to aid with digestion and / or other modification.

[0040] According to some embodiments, modifying at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample comprises subjecting the raw fluid sample to ultraviolet light, other type of light and / or other type of energy (e.g., UV, other light, microwave, other energy modalities, heat, etc.).

[0041] According to some embodiments, a first volume of fluid transferred to the first automated testing module comprises an unmodified volume of the raw fluidsample. In some embodiments, a second volume of fluid transferred to the second automated testing module comprises a volume of the raw fluid sample modified in at least one aspect by the automated pretreatment module.

[0042] According to some embodiments, transferring the first volume of fluid exiting the automated pretreatment module to the first automated testing module occurs, at least in part, simultaneously with transferring the second volume of fluid exiting the automated pretreatment module to the second automated testing module, such that testing of the first and second volumes can occur concurrently.

[0043] According to some embodiments, the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module are identical or similar, so the first analyte or parameter is identical or similar to the second analyte or parameter. In other embodiments, the first automated testing module is different than the second automated testing module, so the first analyte or parameter is different than the second analyte or parameter.

[0044] According to some embodiments, at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module is configured to receive at least one reagent or other material. In some embodiments, the at least one reagent or other material is contained in a consumables module or subsystem. In some embodiments, each of the at least one reagent or other material is configured to be transferred from the consumables module or subsystem to the first automated testing module and / or the second automated testing module using dedicated and fluidly distinct conduits or other fluid lines.

[0045] According to some embodiments, the automated pretreatment module is configured to receive at least one reagent or other material. In some embodiments, the at least one reagent or other material is contained in a consumables module or subsystem.

[0046] According to some embodiments, testing the first volume of fluid for the first analyte or parameter using the first automated testing module comprises adding or introducing a volume of reagent or other additive to the first volume of fluid. In some embodiments, the reagent or other additive is not exposed to environmental / ambient conditions during storage and transport within the system.

[0047] According to some embodiments, testing the first volume of fluid for the first analyte or parameter using the first automated testing module comprises mixing the fluid.

[0048] According to some embodiments, testing the first volume of fluid forthe first analyte or parameter using the first automated testing module comprises thermally conditioning (e.g., heating, cooling) the fluid.

[0049] According to some embodiments, an automated pretreatment module or system for use with a fluid testing system comprises an inlet configured to receive a raw fluid sample from a raw fluid source, at least one subsystem (e.g., module) configured to modify at least one aspect of at least a portion of the raw fluid sample, and an outlet for directing a volume of a modified fluid sample and / or a volume of the raw fluid sample from the pretreatment module or system to at least one downstream testing module, wherein the volume of the modified fluid sample is configured to enhance a testing procedure in a subsequent testing module.

[0050] According to some embodiments, the at least one subsystem comprises filtration device or component (e.g., membrane filtration, media filtration, etc.). In some embodiments, the filtration device or component is configured to remove solids from the raw fluid sample.

[0051] According to some embodiments, the at least one subsystem comprises a digestor and / or other device, system or component configured to modify at least one physical, chemical and / or biological aspect of the raw fluid sample. In some embodiments, the digestor and / or other device, system or component is configured to add to the raw fluid sample at least one reagent and / or other additive.

[0052] According to some embodiments, the at least one subsystem comprises an ultraviolet (UV) light device and / or other light-emitting device or technology. In some embodiments, the at least one subsystem comprises an energy delivery device (e.g., UV device, other light device, microwave device, other energy delivery device, thermal modification device, etc.). In some embodiments, the at least one subsystem comprises a dilution member.

[0053] According to some embodiments, the dilution member comprises a reservoir or chamber configured to dilute the raw fluid sample with a volume of w ater or other dilution fluid. In some embodiments, the at least one subsystem comprises a pH adjustment member.

[0054] According to some embodiments, the at least one subsystem comprises mixing and / or thermal modification (e.g., heating, cooling) of the raw fluid sample.

[0055] According to some embodiments, a consumables module or system for use with an automated fluid testing system comprising a plurality of ports, each port configured to receive a container containing at least one reagent for use in a testingmodule of a fluid testing system, a plurality of conduits, each conduit being associated with a specific port, so that once a container is secured to a port, an interior of the container is placed in fluid communication with a corresponding conduit, at least one coupling configured to secure to at least one fluid line that is in fluid communication with a testing module of the fluid testing system, and a plurality of pumps or fluid transfer devices configured to selectively help transfer the at least one reagent to the testing module.

[0056] According to some embodiments, the at least one subsystem comprises is configured to deliver at least one reagent and / or other material to another component or portion of the testing system (e.g., pretreatment module or system). In some embodiments, the module or system is configured to detect or approximate a remaining volume of any container secured to the module or system. In some embodiments, the module or system comprises at least one sensor (e.g., an optical sensor) to detect or approximate the remaining volume. According to some embodiments, the ports are configured to receive one or more of the following: a bottle, a canister, a cartridge and a pouch.

[0057] According to some embodiments, an automated system for analyzing a fluid to be tested comprises a pretreatment module configured to receive a raw fluid sample and to modify at least one aspect of at least a portion of the raw fluid sample, at least one fluid distribution member configured to receive fluid exiting the pretreatment module, a first testing module in fluid communication with the at least one fluid distribution member, the first testing module being configured to receive a volume of fluid from the at least one fluid distribution member and analyze said volume of fluid for a first analyte or parameter, a second testing module in fluid communication with the at least one fluid distribution member, the second testing module being configured to receive a volume of fluid from the at least one fluid distribution member and analyze said volume of fluid for a second analyte or parameter, and an electronics box in communication with the first testing module and the second testing module to automatically analyze and determine a quantitative value associated with the first analyte or parameter and the second analyte or parameter.

[0058] According to some embodiments, the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified comprises a solids content of the raw fluid sample. In some embodiments, the solids content of the raw fluid sample is modified using filtration (e.g., membrane filtration, media filtration, other filtration or solids separation technology,etc.).

[0059] According to some embodiments, the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified comprises a digestion and / or other physical, chemical and / or biological modification of the raw fluid sample. In some embodiments, at least one oxidizing agent and / or other chemical is configured to be delivered to the pretreatment module to assist digestion and / or other modification of the raw fluid sample.

[0060] According to some embodiments, the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified comprises a pH (e.g., using chemical addition to the raw fluid sample, base or acid, etc.). In some embodiments, the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified comprises a concentration of the raw fluid sample (e.g., dilution). In some embodiments, the concentration of the raw fluid sample is adjusted by adding a volume of a dilution fluid (e.g., water) to the raw fluid sample.

[0061] According to some embodiments, the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample (e.g., water, wastewater, other fluid, etc.) that is modified comprises oxidative and / or other breakdown treatment (e.g., UV -based oxidative pretreatment, another oxidation or oxidative process or step, etc.) of the raw fluid sample. In some embodiments, oxidative and / or other treatment (e.g., to facilitate digestion, breakdown, conversion and / or other type of transformation) of the raw fluid sample is performed using the administration or delivery of light and / or other energy to the raw fluid sample. In one embodiment, the administration of light comprises the administration of ultraviolet (UV) light, microwave energy, heat and / or any other type of energy to the raw fluid sample. The delivery' of energy (e.g., UV light, other light, micro wave energy', other energy, heat, etc.) can be accompanied by chemical additives, stirring, agitation or other mixing and / or any other action.

[0062] For any of the embodiments disclosed herein, a pretreatment module can combine two or more modules, devices, systems, subsystems, components, steps and / or processes in a single module, system, subsystem and / or the like, as desired or required. By way of example, the UV-based digestion or other conversion (e.g., represented as 250 in FIGS. 4A, 5A and 5B) can be combined with another module, device, system, subsystem, components and / or the like of the pretreatment module 200. For instance, as illustrated in FIG. 4B, in some embodiments, the UV-based module or other system, subsystem, device, component and / or the like that assists with digestion, can be combined, at least in part, with the digestor module 260. In the same embodiment, as depicted schematically in FIG. 4B, the digestor module 260 can also receive one ormore chemicals, solutions and / or other additives (e.g., from corresponding bottles, containers or other sources Cl, C2) for pH adjustment and / or any other desired goal.

[0063] According to some embodiments, the pretreatment module is configured to not modify a bypass volume of the raw fluid sample, such that said bypass volume is configured to exit the pretreatment module without modification by the pretreatment module. Thus, in some embodiments, a volume of raw fluid sample can be delivered to a downstream testing module or system using one or more bypass lines of the pretreatment module. In some embodiments, the first testing module is configured to receive a volume of fluid modified by the pretreatment module, and wherein the second testing module is configured to receive a volume of fluid that is identical or substantially identical to the raw fluid sample and not modified by the pretreatment module. Such a bypass feature can be incorporated into any of the embodiments disclosed herein or equivalents or variations thereof.

[0064] According to some embodiments, an automated method of analyzing a fluid using a fluid testing system comprises directing a raw fluid sample from a raw fluid source to a pretreatment module of the fluid testing system, modifying at least one aspect of at least a portion of the raw fluid sample using the pretreatment module, transferring a first volume of fluid exiting the pretreatment module to a first testing module, testing the first volume of fluid for a first analyte or parameter using the first testing module, transferring a second volume of fluid exiting the pretreatment module to a second testing module, testing the second volume of fluid for a second analyte or parameter using the second testing module, and collecting data related to the testing of the first and second volumes of fluid.

[0065] According to some embodiments, modifying at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample comprises filtration (e.g., sand or media filtration, membrane filtration, any other type of filtration or separation technology configured to remove solids from a fluid, etc.). Any ty pe and / or configuration of filtration can be utilized into a pretreatment module, including, for example and without limitation, multi-stage media filtration, settling, membrane filtration and / or the like. Such features can be used in any of the pretreatment module embodiments disclosed herein or variations thereof.

[0066] According to some embodiments, the pretreatment module is configured to receive at least one reagent or other material. In some embodiments, the at least one reagent or other material is contained in a consumables module or subsystem. Such a consumables module or subsystem can be configured to provide reagents or othermaterial only to the pretreatment module. Therefore, the consumables module or subsystem can be a dedicated pretreatment consumables module or subsystem. However, in other embodiments, as illustrated and / or disclosed herein, the consumables module can be configured to store reagents and / or other materials that are intended to be delivered to the pretreatment module and at least one other component or portion of the overall testing system (e.g., the separate testing modules). In some embodiments, the pretreatment module is configured to receive bottles and / or other containers of reagents and / or other materials to be used by the pretreatment module. Such bottles and / or other containers can be secured directly onto / into a portion of the pretreatment module. However, in other arrangements, the bottles and / or other containers are configured to be secured into a separate reagent module that is in fluid communication with the pretreatment module).

[0067] According to some embodiments, a pretreatment module or system for use with an automated fluid testing system, wherein the module or subsystem comprises an inlet configured to receive a raw fluid sample from a raw fluid source, at least one subsystem (e.g., module) configured to modify at least one aspect of at least a portion of the raw fluid sample, and an outlet for directing a volume of a modified fluid sample and / or a volume of the raw fluid sample from the pretreatment module or system to at least one downstream testing module, wherein the volume of the modified fluid sample is configured to enhance a testing procedure in a subsequent testing module.

[0068] According to some embodiments, the at least one subsystem comprises filtration device or component (e g., membrane filtration, media filtration, etc.). In some embodiments, the filtration device or component is configured to remove solids from the raw fluid sample. In some embodiments, the filtration system can include a single filtering device / system or step. However, in other arrangements, the filtration system can include two or more (e.g., 2, 3, 4, more than 4, etc.), filtering devices / systems or steps, as desired or required. For example, for any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the filtering device or component can include a multi-step or multi-stage configuration. In some embodiments, each successive step or stage of such a filter can be configured to remove smaller components of materials (e.g., contaminants, other ingredients or components, etc.) from the water or other fluid being tested. In some embodiments, a pretreatment module can include medial (e.g., sand) filtering, membrane filtering, settling and / or the like.

[0069] According to some embodiments, the at least one subsystem comprises a digestor and / or other device, system or component configured to modify at least onephysical, chemical and / or biological aspect of the raw fluid sample. In some embodiments, the digestor and / or other device, system or component is configured to add to the raw fluid sample at least one reagent and / or other additive. For any of the pretreatment module embodiments disclosed herein or variations thereof, digestion can include chemical additives, stirring, agitation or other mixing, thermal conditioning (e.g., heating, cooling, etc.) and / or any other form of desired or required treatment or pretreatment.

[0070] According to some embodiments, the at least one subsystem comprises an ultraviolet (UV) light device and / or other light-emitting device or technology. In some embodiments, the at least one subsystem comprises a device configured to deliver energy (e.g., UV light, other light, microwave energy, other energy, etc.) to the fluid being tested. Such energy can assist with digestion, oxidation and / or other breakdown, conversion, transformation and / or modification of the fluid being tested. Such UV and / or other energy delivery' (e.g., other light, microwave, other energy', heat, agitation or mixing, etc.) can facilitate in the digestion of a fluid sample being tested. In some embodiments, energy delivery can be consolidated into a single digestion module. However, in other arrangements, two or more modules or steps can be used.

[0071] According to some embodiments, a consumables module or system for use with an automated fluid testing system, wherein the module or subsystem comprises a plurality of ports, each port configured to receive a container containing at least one reagent for use in a testing module of a fluid testing system.

[0072] According to some embodiments, the consumables module or system comprises a plurality' of conduits, each conduit being associated with a specific port, so that once a container is secured to a port, an interior of the container is placed in fluid communication with a corresponding conduit, at least one coupling configured to secure to at least one fluid line that is in fluid communication with a testing module of the fluid testing system, and a plurality of pumps or fluid transfer devices configured to selectively help transfer the at least one reagent to the testing module.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0073] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure are described with reference to the drawings of certain embodiments, which are intended to illustrate certain embodiments and not to limit the invention, in which like reference numerals are used for like features, and in which:

[0074] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a fluid testing system according to one embodiment;

[0075] FIG. 2A illustrates a schematic representation of a fluid testing system comprising or being operatively coupled to a pretreatment module and a consumables module according to one embodiment;

[0076] FIG. 2B illustrates a schematic representation of a fluid testing system comprising or being operatively coupled to a pretreatment module and a consumables module according to another embodiment;

[0077] FIG. 3A illustrates a schematic representation of a fluid testing system comprising or being operatively coupled to a pretreatment module and a consumables module according to one embodiment:

[0078] FIG. 3B illustrates a schematic representation of a fluid testing system comprising or being operatively coupled to a pretreatment module and a consumables module according to another embodiment;

[0079] FIG. 4A illustrates a schematic representation of a pretreatment module or subsystem for a fluid testing system according to one embodiment;

[0080] FIG. 4B illustrates a schematic representation of a pretreatment module or subsystem for a fluid testing system according to another embodiment;

[0081] FIG. 4C illustrates a schematic representation of a pretreatment module or subsystem for a fluid testing system according to yet another embodiment;

[0082] FIG. 5A illustrates a schematic representation of a pretreatment module or subsystem for a fluid testing system according to one embodiment;

[0083] FIG. 5B illustrates a schematic representation of a pretreatment module or subsystem for a fluid testing system according to another embodiment;

[0084] FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic representation of a consumables module or subsystem for a fluid testing system according to one embodiment;

[0085] FIG. 7 illustrates a pouch assembly for use in a consumables module or subsystem for a fluid testing system according to one embodiment;

[0086] FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic representation of a consumables module or subsystem for a fluid testing system according to one embodiment;

[0087] FIG. 9 illustrates various embodiments of quick-connect couplings for use in a consumable module or subsystem;

[0088] FIG. 10 illustrates a schematic representation of a testing module for a fluid testing system according to one embodiment;

[0089] FIG. 11A illustrates one embodiment of an electrode assembly configured for use in a testing module;

[0090] FIG. 11B illustrates an individual electrode probe of the electrode assembly of FIG. 11 A according to one embodiment;

[0091] FIG. 12 illustrates a schematic representation of a testing module for a fluid testing system according to one embodiment; and

[0092] FIG. 13 illustrates a schematic representation of a testing module for a fluid testing system according to one embodiment;DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0093] Although certain embodiments and examples are described herein, any disclosed inventions extend beyond any specific embodiments and / or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. The scope of the inventions disclosed herein should not be limited by any particular embodiment(s).

[0094] The fluid testing systems and methods described herein are configured to include a plurality of testing or detection modules as explained in detail herein. In some embodiments, such systems are configured to receive fluid samples (e g., directly, indirectly, raw or unmodified, modified, etc.) from a pipe or other fluid conduit or line or other source (e g., a water line of a residential, commercial, or municipal building, a water treatment line, an urban water line, a rural water line, a lake, a river, a well and / or any other water or fluid line for which analysis is desired), and perform qualitative and / or quantitative analyses of the water or other fluid.

[0095] As discussed in greater detail herein, the systems can be configured to detect one or more of the following: a contaminant, a heavy metal, another measure or property and / or the like. By way of example and without limitation, the systems disclosed herein and equivalents thereof can be configured to test for one or more of the following: lead, other total dissolved solids, temperature, conductivity, salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen, oxygen reduction potential, specific gravity, arsenic, cadmium, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, magnesium, mercury, manganese, molybdenum, selenium, zinc, orthophosphates, nitrates, nitrites, total ammonia nitrogen, dissolved boron, dissolved silica, free chlorine, residual chlorine, other minerals, other heavy metals, total hardness, alkalinity, perfluorooactanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), other per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PF AS), other forever chemicals, fluoride, one or more indexes (e.g., Langelier Saturation Index)and / or the like. In some embodiments, an actual or approximate concentration of a tested substance is obtained. However, in other embodiments, any other quantitative (e.g., index) and / or qualitative results can be provided.

[0096] The systems can be positioned at or near the inlet (and / or upstream) or outlet (and / or downstream) of the target sampling site (e.g., pipe, conduit, aboveground water source, belowground water source, well, other manmade (e.g., artificial or synthetic) or natural feature or member that transports, stores and / or otherwise comes in contact wdth water and / or other liquids, etc.). In some applications, the systems are used to analyze contaminants present in lakes, wells, other natural sources of water or liquid, tanks or reservoirs (e.g., water or liquid containment tanks), containers and / or other nonflowing (e.g., and / or slow flowing) water or other fluid environments. In some such instances, the systems can include a pump or other fluid flow or fluid transfer device or system configured to selectively move fluid in and / or out of the fluid testing system. In some embodiments, the fluid samples to be analyzed are directed toward and collected in a common storage chamber. Data collected and / or generated from the fluid testing system can be transmitted wirelessly via communication methodologies or other technologies (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, radio, satellite, cellular, etc.) and / or via wired communication other technologies (e.g., LAN) and stored and / or processed using local and / or cloud data management techniques. In some embodiments, the complete detection, transmission, monitoring and analysis of the data (or a portion thereof) may be built into a data server, database and / or a computer device as a comprehensive software stack wdth all of the analysis and location-mapped correlation metrics presented or otherwise made available to the user.

[0097] Using the devices and methods disclosed herein, analytes present in water (and / or other liquid or fluid) including, but not limited to, one or more of the following: total dissolved solids, temperature, conductivity, salinity’, pH, dissolved oxygen, oxygen reduction potential, specific gravity, arsenic, cadmium, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, magnesium, mercury, manganese, molybdenum, selenium, zinc, orthophosphates, nitrates, nitrites, total ammonia nitrogen, dissolved boron, dissolved silica, free chlorine, residual chlorine, other minerals, other heavy metals, total hardness, fluoride, one or more indexes (e.g., Langelier Saturation Index) and / or the like, can be detected precisely and accurately down to low' concentrations (e.g., where applicable, less than 20 ppb (parts-per-billion), less than 10 ppb, less than 5 ppb. less than 2 ppb, and / or less than 1 ppb). Examples include, but are not limited to, 1 to 20, 1 to 5, 5to 10, 10 to 20, 0.5 to 0.01 to 0.1, 0.01 to 10, 0.001 to 1, 0.001 to 0.05 ppb, values and / or ranges between the foregoing, values less than 0.001 ppb or greater than 20 ppb, etc., as desired or required. One or more methods of operation may be used in unison (e.g., at or substantially at the same time). In some embodiments, the device is automated in addition to or instead of remote controlling the initiation of measurement sequences (e.g., outside or scheduled measurements). In some embodiments, data obtained and / or processed using the systems, devices and / or methods disclosed herein are transmitted (e.g., wirelessly, via a wired connection, etc.), analyzed, processed, manipulated and / or otherwise utilized. In some embodiments, such analyses and / or other use of data can be customized, as desired or required.

[0098] According to some embodiments, the data obtained by a system or device disclosed herein can be used (e.g., directly, indirectly, after processing, etc.) to provide one or more benefits or advantages to the user. For example, the various embodiments disclosed herein allow for fully automated testing of analytes and / or other properties of a fluid source, provide for an accurate measurement or determination (e.g., of a concentration, index, other quantitative or qualitative value, etc.) of such analytes and / or other properties in a fluid source, provide for the transfer of chemicals and / or other materials from a storage source to a testing chamber or other compartment of a device or system, eliminate or at least reduce the likelihood of carry-over or other crosscontamination within an automated testing device or system, provide for the determination or approximation of one or more parameters using a single device or system, permit for the customization of what parameters will be tested using an automated system with a modular design and capabilities, provide for simplification in maintaining, replenishing or restoring reagents and / or other consumables utilized by the system or device, provide for simplification in repairing or restoring components of a testing system or device, reduce the amount of reagents and / or other consumables utilized by a testing system or device during operation, provide for more accurate testing of components and for more accurate analysis of a fluid sample being tested, provide a system and method for determining risk of corrosion and / or other problems associated with water or other liquid that is not or may not be pH-balanced and / or the like.

[0099] Monitoring contaminants, analytes and / or other properties can be important and / or otherwise helpful for maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems, optimizing industrial processes, ensuring quality drinking water and / or the like. In the water treatment industry, for instance, the measurement or approximation of one or moreanalytes and / or properties serves as a key parameter that informs the quantity' and / or ty pe of treatment chemicals needed for processes. In some embodiments, such measurements or approximations are required by regulatory agencies or other governmental bodies. Accurate and reliable measurements that are capable of being obtained automatically and / or periodically (e.g., according to some schedule, at a desired or required frequency, etc.) can assist in one or more aspects of the treatment process, such as, for example and without limitation, pH adjustment, disinfection, coagulation, flocculation, notification of violations and / or other thresholds data collection for satisfying reporting requirements or other purpose, etc.

[0100] In some embodiments, measuring or approximating analytes and / or other properties can be important for the maintenance of aquatic environments, like aquaculture, water basins and / or other areas (e.g., environmentally sensitive areas). In various industrial processes and / or industries, including power generation, food and beverage, chemical production, pharmaceuticals and / or the like, certain contaminants, other analytes and / or other properties can be monitored to address one or more goals. For example, such monitoring can help prevent (or reduce the likelihood ol) one or more issues , which can include, for example, scaling, corrosion and / or other issues associated with a particular system or environment, and / complications in devices, systems and / or machineries. The burden of testing and / or treatment of fluids is shifting toward polluters and / or other users of water sources. Accordingly, the responsibility of end users to monitor water qualify makes automated testing systems and devices, such as those described herein, more attractive and necessary.General

[0101] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a fluid testing system 100. As shown, the system 100 can include two or more (e.g., 2, more than 2, etc.) compartments, areas, partitions or portions 130, 140. In some embodiments, such compartments 130, 140 are separated by one or more walls (e.g., partial / discontinuous or continuous), barriers or other partitions 120. In some embodiments, the system 100 comprises one or more outer housings or enclosures that are shaped, sized and / or otherwise configured to help create two or more compartments and / or to at least partially house or otherwise enclose various components of the system (e.g., testing modules, electronic components, etc.). Such compartments can be partially or completely isolated from one another, as desired or required.

[0102] With continued reference to FIG. 1, depicted system 100 comprises afirst compartment or section 130 that is configured to house or otherwise include or encompass, completely or at least partially, one or more electrical components (e.g., processor(s), memory unit(s), wired and / or wireless communication components, power supply components, etc.). In one arrangement, all electrical components or a majority of electrical components are positioned at least partially in the first compartment or section.

[0103] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the system 100 can further include a second compartment or section 140 that houses or otherwise includes or encompasses one or more testing modules of the system 100. Since in some embodiments the second compartment or section 140 receives and tests a fluid, it can be referred to as the “wet” compartment, while the first compartment or section 130 can be referred to as the “dr ” compartment.

[0104] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the wet compartment 140 can include one or more separate testing modules 160a, 1 0b, 160c, 160d. Each of the testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d can be designed and otherwise configured to analyze (e.g., test, determine, estimate, approximate, etc.) a water or other fluid sample entering the system 100 for one or more analytes, concentrations, properties, parameters and / or the like (e.g., physical, chemical, biological, biochemical, etc ), as desired or required. As noted in greater detail herein, such analytes and / or other parameters (e.g., concentrations, indices, other quantitative or qualitative measurements, etc.) include, for example and without limitation, one or more of the following: total dissolved solids, temperature, conductivity, salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen, oxygen reduction potential, specific gravity, arsenic, cadmium, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, magnesium, mercury, manganese, molybdenum, selenium, zinc, orthophosphates, nitrates, nitrites, minerals, total ammonia nitrogen, dissolved boron, dissolved silica, free chlorine, residual chlorine, other minerals, other heavy metals, total hardness, alkalinity, perfluorooactanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), other per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PF AS), other forever chemicals, fluoride, one or more indexes (e.g., Langelier Saturation Index) and / or the like.

[0105] According to some embodiments, the automated testing systems disclosed herein are sized, shaped and / or otherwise configured to be placed an exterior or interior space at a location at or near a fluid source (e.g., a river, lake, sea, other natural and / or manmade body of water, a pipe, a channel, etc.). The overall dimension of the systems can vary depending on one or more factors (e.g., capacity, analytes to be tested, etc.). In some arrangements, the automated testing systems can be 2 to 8 feet long (e.g., 2to 3, 3 to 4, 4 to 5, 5 to 6, 6 to 7, 7 to 8 feet, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 feet, lengths between the foregoing, greater than 8 feet, etc.), 0.5 to 5 feet wide (e.g.. 0.5 to 1, 1 to 2, 2 to 3. 3 to 4, 4 to 5 feet, 1, ,2, 3, 4, 5 feet, widths between the foregoing, greater than 5 feet, etc.), and 0.5 to 5 feet tall (e.g., 0.5 to 1, 1 to 2, 2 to 3, 3 to 4, 4 to 5 feet, 1, ,2, 3, 4, 5 feet, heights between the foregoing, greater than 5 feet, etc.). The flowrate of fluid to be tested by the automated testing systems can vary; however, in some embodiments, such a flowrate is 0.5 to 30 liters per day (e.g.. 0.5 to 5, 5 to 10, 10 to 15, 15 to 20, 20 to 30 liters per day, flowrates between the foregoing ranges and values, greater than 30 liters per day, etc.). The volumetric capacity of the automated testing systems can be 0.5 to 10 liters (e.g., 0.5 to 1, 1 to 2, 2 to 3, 3 to 4, 4 to 5, 5 to 7.5, 7.5 to 10 liters, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10 liters, capacities between the foregoing ranges or vales, etc.). For example, the volumetric capacity of the automated pretreatment module can be 0.25 to 5 liters (e.g., 0.25 to 0.5, 0.5 to 1, 1 to 2, 2 to 3, 3 to 4, 4 to 5 liters, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5 liters, greater than 5 liters, capacities between the foregoing values or ranges, etc.), while the throughput for it can be 0.5 to 30 liters per day (e.g., 0.5 to 5, 5 to 10, 10 to 15, 15 to 20, 20 to 30 liters per day, flowrates between the foregoing ranges and values, greater than 30 liters per day, etc ). Further, also by way of example, the volumetric capacity of each of the automated testing modules can be 0.25 to 5 liters (e.g., 0.25 to 0.5, 0.5 to 1, 1 to 2, 2 to 3, 3 to 4, 4 to 5 liters. 0.25. 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.5. 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5 liters, greater than 5 liters, capacities between the foregoing values or ranges, etc.), while the throughput for it can be 0.5 to 30 liters per day (e.g., 0.5 to 5, 5 to 10, 10 to 15, 15 to 20, 20 to 30 liters per day, flowrates between the foregoing ranges and values, greater than 30 liters per day, etc.). In some embodiments, it takes 0.25 to 10 minutes (e.g., 0.25 to 0.5, 0.5 to 1, 1 to 2, 2 to 3, 3 to 4, 4 to 5, 5 to 10 minutes, 0.25, 0.5. 0.75. 1, 1.5, 2. 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 7.5, 10 minutes, greater than 10 minutes, time durations between the foregoing values or ranges, etc.), for fluid entering the automated testing system to be tested.

[0106] The various processes, steps and / or actions in connection with the testing systems described herein can be fully automated. In other words, fluid samples to be tested can be automatically obtained by the system and delivered through the various pretreatment and testing without the need for human intervention. This can include transferring the fluid to the interior of the testing system and through the various steps or stages (e.g., pretreatment, testing, etc ). The system can also automatically provide any reagents, chemicals and / or other materials (e.g., dilution water, backwashing fluids, etc.) through the system using an automated scheme without the need for human intervention.However, one or more steps can be designed to be conducted or facilitated (e.g., optionally, at a user's discretion, etc.) by a human or other user, as desired or required. Such optional features and configurations apply to any of the systems disclosed herein or equivalents thereof.Modular Configuration

[0107] According to some embodiments, the system 100 can be customized to enable it to test for a set of physical, chemical, biological, biochemical and / or other analytes, concentrations, properties, parameters and / or the like, as desired or required by the intended user of the system. To that end, in some arrangements, the system 100 comprises a modular configuration. For example, the system 100 can be modified for the intended set of parameters or other properties to be tested. Such customization or modification can occur prior to initial use. However, in other embodiments, the system 100 can be modified after use has commenced (e.g., by the user, by the manufacturer, etc.). Customization or modification of the system can include changing one or more of the testing modules included in the system 100 (e.g., in the “wet” portion or compartment 140). Thus, in some embodiments, the system 100 comprises a modular configuration where individual testing modules can be inserted, removed, replaced and / or the like pursuant to the desired set of analytes, concentrations, parameters and / or other properties to be tested. In some embodiments, one module can be replaced by a different module using a simple plug-and-play configuration. Such changes can be made prior to or following the commencement of use of a system or device. For example, as a user’s needs to test a fluid change (e.g., based on regulatory' changes, fluid changes, location of testing, the need or desire to attain certain treatment or use goals, etc.), the testing system or device can be easily and conveniently modified accordingly.

[0108] As illustrated schematically in FIG. 1, the system 100 can include four different testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d. Each testing module can be positioned or otherwise secured within a corresponding designated area or region 162a, 162b, 162c, 162d of the system 100 (e.g., the “wet” portion or compartment 140 of the system). In other embodiments, however, the system 100 can include more or less than four (e.g., I, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 ,8, 9, 10, more than 10) testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d and / or module receiving areas or regions 162a, 162b, 162c, 162d, as desired or required. In some arrangements, the system 100 is provided with more testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c. 160d and / or module receiving areas or regions 162a, 162b, 162c. 162d than initially required. Such a configuration can provide the opportunity to expand and / or otherwisemodify the system 100 in the future (e.g., to test for additional and / or different analytes, concentrations, parameters and / or other properties). Thus, the system 100 can include a modular configuration that allows for customization as the needs or requirements of the user change. Such changes can be initiated by personal preference, government or other administrative requirements and / or the like.

[0109] With continued reference to the system 100 schematically depicted in FIG. 1, a water or other fluid sample can be configured to enter the system through one or more inlets 112. Depending on where the system is located, the water or other fluid being tested and / or other factors, a volume of water or other fluid can enter an interior of the system 100 (e.g., via an inlet 112 and into an interior of an outer housing or enclosure of the system) via gravity. However, in other arrangements, water or other fluid samples enter the inlet 112 using positive or negative pressure, which can be generated by one or more positive pressure pumps, suction or vacuum pumps or other negative pressure sources and / or other devices or components. Such devices or components can be incorporated into the system 100 or can be separate of the system, as desired or required. In some arrangements, one or more pumps or other positive or negative pressure device or components are positioned at least partially on and / or within the system 100. In one embodiment, a pump can include a peristaltic pump; however, any other pump can be used, such as, for example and without limitation, a metering pump, a dosing pump, any other pump or fluid transfer device and / or the like.

[0110] In some embodiments, the system 100 comprises a fluid reservoir or header 150 that is in fluid communication with one or more inlets 112. The system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes a single water or other fluid sample header, reservoir or other collection channel, component, portion or area 150. However, in other arrangements, the system 100 can include more than one (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, more than 5, etc.) headers or other collection members 150. For example, the system 100 can include a header or other collection member 150 (e.g., a manifold or other fluid distribution member having a plurality’ of outlets) that is adapted to provide a water or other fluid sample to be analyzed to two or more (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, etc.) testing modules. In one embodiment, each testing module 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d ... 160n and / or module receiving area or region 162a, 162b, 162c, 162d ... 162n comprises its own (e.g., dedicated) fluid header or collection member intended to direct or otherwise provide a water or other fluid sample to corresponding testing modules. Therefore, a fluid to be tested can be delivered to the testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d ... 160n in aparallel flow orientation, pattern or manner and / or in a serial flow orientation, pattern or manner. A parallel flow orientation, pattern or manner of fluid flow through the testing system 100, and thus, the resulting parallel testing scheme, can provide one or more advantages or benefits. For example, parallel flow can permit concurrent (e.g., simultaneous, substantially simultaneous, etc.) testing of a fluid sample by two or more modules. This can lower testing time of a sample, increase efficiency, facilitate redundancy (e.g., using redundant testing modules) and / or the like. This can help reduce the time needed to complete testing of a fluid sample, can help increase efficiency, can provide testing redundancy and / or the like.[OHl] As illustrated schematically in FIG. 1, in embodiments having a collection member, header or other component 150 that directs water or other fluid to be tested to two or more testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d, the system 100 can include one or more corresponding fluid lines (e.g., conduits, pipes, openings, passages, channels, etc.) 152a, 152b, 152c, 152d that hydraulically connect the collection member 150 to a designated module 160a. 160b, 160c, 160d.

[0112] According to some embodiments, the system 100 comprises corresponding waste conduits or other lines 172a, 172b, 172c, 172d to transfer a volume of waste away from a testing module 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d, as desired or required. Such waste can include the tested volume of water or other fluid, either alone or in combination with any chemical and / or other materials that were added to the water or other fluid sample by the system. For example, a particular module may require the addition of a reagent or other chemical as part of the testing process. In some arrangements, as illustrated schematically in FIG. 1, the system 100 can include one or more waste headers 170 (e.g., a manifold having a plurality of inputs) that collect the waste from two or more of the testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d. In other embodiments, waste from a testing module 160a, 160b, 1 0c, 160d can be separate of one or more other testing module w aste streams or sources, as desired or required.

[0113] Irrespective of the exact configuration of a particular system 100, the system can include one or more waste outlets 114 to remove tested water or other fluid volumes and / or other waste materials from the system, as illustrated in FIG. 1. As discussed in greater detail herein, the system 100 can be configured to handle waste materials (e.g.. water or other fluid tested by a module, additives and / or other waste materials) in one more ways according to a desired or required protocol. By way of example, w aste can be directed to a portion of the system for collection and / or treatment,can be directed to a separate device or system for collection and / or treatment, can be eliminated to the environment (e.g.. the same source as the water or other fluid sampled and tested) and / or the like.

[0114] According to some embodiments, the system 100 is configured to permit one more testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d to be inserted and / or removed from a corresponding module receiving area or region 162a, 162b, 162c, 162d. Insertion and / or removal can comprise a relatively quick process, such as, for example and without limitation, snapping / unsnapping (e.g., otherwise securing / un-securing) or similar connection. As a result, a water or other fluid testing system can be customized with relative ease and in a timely manner. This can benefit both the user by providing the ability to modify the testing system or device as its needs change over time, as well as the manufacturer or supplier of such systems and devices by simplifying the process by which a testing system or device is updated or modified, even when such a system or device is already in operation.

[0115] As shown schematically in FIG. 2A, a fluid testing system 100 can include one or more additional components, devices or subsystems. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, the system 100 comprises both a pretreatment (e.g., pre-testing) module 200 and consumable module 300. However, in other arrangements, the system 200 includes only one or none of the additional modules or subsystems 200, 300, as desired or required. Further, when included, such additional modules or subsystems 200, 300 can be incorporated into and made part of the system 100 or can be separated , removed or otherwise eliminated from the system 100, as needs, demands and / or desires change (e.g., during different times of the year, over time, etc ).

[0116] In FIG. 2A, as discussed herein, the pretreatment module 200 is in fluid communication with a main consumables module 300. However, in other embodiments, as schematically illustrated in FIG. 2B, the pretreatment module 200 includes a dedicated consumables module or portion 280, 280 that is configured to store reagents needed by the pretreatment module and / or configured to help deliver such reagents and / or other materials to specific modules, submodules, devices, systems, subsystems, components and / or portions of the pretreatment module 200. As shown, the dedicated consumables module or portion 280 can be incorporated into (or form a unitary structure) with the pretreatment module. Alternatively, the dedicated consumables module or portion 280' can be separate from the pretreatment module 200, as desired or required.Pretreatment Module and Method

[0117] In some embodiments, a pretreatment module or subsystem 200 can be used to modify the water or other fluid sample to be tested, for example, before it enters a testing module 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d or as it is otherwise tested by and / or advanced through the system 100. For example, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 can be configured to, at least partially, remove and / or otherwise manipulate, transform, change or otherwise modify (e.g., oxidize, dilute, etc.) the fluid to be tested, including any solids, organics and / or any other substances contained therein. Such materials can be targeted for removal and / or other modification to improve the testing performed by the system 100 (e.g., improve accuracy of testing and corresponding results, improve repeatability, etc.), reduce the use of added chemicals and / or other materials utilized by the system to perform testing and / or provide one or more other advantages or benefits. For example, removal or other modification of certain materials (e.g., organic material, solids or related materials, suspended solids, oil and grease, etc.) can improve the accuracy of certain measurements performed by one or more of the downstream testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d of the system (e.g., detection of heavy metals).

[0118] In some embodiments, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 is configured to perform or accomplish one or more of the following to the w ater or other fluid passing therethrough (e.g., before it enters one or more of the testing modules of the system 100): media filtration (e.g., using a sand filter, using a filter with another movable or fixed media, multi-stage filtration, sponges, other synthetic or natural materials or components, etc.), membrane filtration (e.g., reverse osmosis, microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, etc ), other types of filtration or physical separation, oxidation, digestion, breakdown, conversion, transformation or other modification, (e.g., exposure to UV, other light, heat, microwave, other energy, etc.), chemical addition (e.g., to adjust pH, to assist wdth digestion of materials (e.g., solids) included in water or other fluid to be tested, to cause some other physical, biological and / or chemical impact on the water or other fluid to be tested), dilution, degassing or other fluid removal, temperature control (e.g., heating, cooling, maintaining the fluid at a target temperature and / or within a target temperature range, etc.), agitating or otherwise mixing the water or other fluid to be tested and / or the like.

[0119] As illustrated schematically in FIG. 4, a pretreatment module or subsystem 200 for a fluid testing system can be configured to perform one or more processes or other treatments to the water or other fluid to be tested. As shown in FIGS.2A, 2B, 3A and 3B, from a fluid flow perspective, the pretreatment module 200 can be located upstream of one or more testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c. 160d of a fluid testing system 100 (e.g., according to any of the embodiments of a testing system 100 disclosed herein or equivalents or modified versions thereof). Thus, according to some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, water or other fluid to be tested enters the pretreatment module 200 prior to advancing to the testing modules or any other portion of the system 100. For example, in the embodiments schematically illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 3A, water or other fluid to be tested enters the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 using one or more inlets 202 (e.g., conduits, pipes, other fluid lines, openings, fittings, passages, channels, etc.). As noted herein, such a fluid can enter the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, and thus the overall fluid testing system 100. with the assistance of a pump (e.g., positive pressure pump or device, negative pressure or suction pump or device, etc.). In some embodiments, water or other fluid to be tested enters the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 via gravity flow, either with or without the assistance of a pump or separate device.

[0120] With continued reference to FIG. 4 A, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 can include one or more of the following devices, components, subsystems and / or the like, in accordance with the user’s needs and requirements: a media filter 230 (e.g., multi-stage media filter, a single-stage media filter, etc.), a membrane filter 240, a device or system configured to assist with at least partial digestion, oxidation, breakdown, conversion, transformation or other modification of the fluid being tested (e.g., organic compounds and / or other organic material contained within the sample being tested), 250 (e.g., one or more ultraviolet (UV) lamps, UV lamp arrays, other light-based device, system or component, heating device, system or component, other energy -based device, system or component (e.g., microwave-based), etc.), a digestor 260 or other reactor for modifying (e.g., chemically, biologically, physically, combinations thereof, etc.) the water or other fluid to be tested, a dilution system 270, a neutralizer system (e.g., for pH adjustment, adjustment of one or more other analytes) and / or the like.

[0121] In some embodiments, filtering, via the media filter 230 and / or a membrane device 240, can be used to remove larger solids from the water or other entering the pretreatment module or subsystem 200. In some embodiments, a screen, settling reservoir and / or other component can be optionally positioned upstream of a medial filter or other solids removal device to reduce the frequency and incidence of fouling of any dow nstream filtering components or members, as desired or required for aparticular use or application. The filter 230 can include a pressurized or gravity' flow sand or other media through which the water or other fluid to be tested flows. Passing the water or other fluid through the filter 230 can remove larger particles contained therein, including, for example and without limitation, sand, silt, soil, other natural and / or manmade (e.g., synthetic) materials (e.g., leaves, rocks, microplastics, other trash, etc.) and / or the like. As discussed in connection yvith certain embodiments herein, the media filter and / or other filtering device or component (e.g., membrane technology, sponges, etc.) can be provided in multiple (e.g., 2, 3, 4, more than 4) stages. This can help improve filtering efficiency, reduce fouling of the filtering technology and / or provide one or more other benefits or advantages.

[0122] As noted herein, the filter or filter module or subsystem 230 can include sand or other media configured to trap larger particles and / or other larger materials contained in the water or other fluid passing through the filter 230. The filter module 230 can include one or more mixing devices (e.g., an impeller, a stir plate system, other agitation or movement, etc.) 232 in order to assist with one or more aspects related to the operation and / or maintenance of the filter 230. For example, prior to and / or during a backwashing procedure of the membrane or filter 230, with or without cleaning of any other module, portion and / or aspect of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, one or more impellers or other mixing members 232 can be used to selectively mix or agitate (e.g., continuously, intermittently or non-continuously. etc.) the sand and / or other media of the filter module 230. Accordingly, any larger particles and substances trapped in the filter can be released and removed from the filter module 230 and the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 (e.g., through one or more waste outlets or exits 206).

[0123] Any type and / or configuration of filtration can be utilized with or otherwise incorporated into a pretreatment module, including, for example and without limitation, multi-stage (e.g., two-stage, three-stage, etc.) media filtration, settling, membrane filtration, filtration using synthetic sponges or other synthetic and / or natural components, members or devices and / or the like. Such features can be used in any of the pretreatment module embodiments disclosed herein or variations thereof. For example, the pretreatment module 200B schematically depicted in FIG. 4B, includes a multi-stage filter 230. As shown, such a filter 230 can include two or more (e.g., 2, 3, 4, more than 4) separate filters or filtering modules or steps 231a, 231b, 231c. Such a filtering scheme can be incorporated into any of the pretreatment module configurations disclosed herein or variations thereof. In some embodiments, such separate filters or filtering modules orsteps 231a, 231b, 231c are arranged in series, with each subsequent module or step 231b, 231c being configured to remove even smaller or finer materials from the sample being tested. However, in other embodiments, the separate filters or filtering modules or steps 231a, 231b, 231c are arranged in a parallel flow configuration.

[0124] Backwashing and / or other flushing or cleaning can be used for one or more of the modules included in the pretreatment module or subsystem 200. For any of the embodiments of a testing system or device described herein, or equivalents thereof, such backwashing can be incorporated into the system or device itself. However, in other embodiments, such features can be included in separate systems or devices that are configured to work alongside and together with the testing systems or devices. One or more modules 230, 240, 250, 260, 270 can be hydraulically isolated, either alone or with one or more other modules, for flushing, backwashing and / or other cleaning or treatment. Such cleaning can be performed periodically (e.g., based on usage, detection of a condition, based on one or more other factors or consideration, etc.) in order to maintain the desired or required level of cleanliness within the pretreatment module.

[0125] As shown schematically in FIG. 4A, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 can also include another filter 240, such as one or more membranes. Such a membrane 240 can be used in addition to or in lieu of a media filter, as desired or required by the particular application or use. The membrane technology used in the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 can include any type of membrane or other physical separation technology, including, for example and without limitation, reverse osmosis, microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, filtration using sponges and / or other synthetic and / or natural technologies, etc. One or more membrane filters 240 can be incorporated into any of the embodiments disclosed herein or equivalents or variations thereof including, for example and without limitation, the pretreatment modules schematically illustrated in FIGS. 4B, 4C, 5A and / or 5B.

[0126] With continued reference to the schematic of FIG. 4A, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 can comprise an ultraviolet (UV). microwave or other energy delivery device and / or device, component, module, system or subsystem 250 configured to assist with digestion of certain compounds and / or other components contained in the fluid being tested. By way of example and without limitation or restriction, for any of the embodiments disclosed herein or variations thereof, such subsystems can help at least partially breakdown organic materials contained in the fluid sample being tested. This can facilitate and / or enable the subsequent measurement or other assessment of theamount of organic material contained in the fluid sample. Thus, the inclusion of such technology(ies) can help break down organic compounds contained in the fluid sample being tested. In some embodiments, digestion of organic material comprises the delivery of energy (e.g., UV, microwave, light, other energy modalities, heat, etc.) to help generate hydroxyl radicals. Such processes can be facilitated and / or otherwise enhanced with the inclusion of one or more additional technologies (e.g., providing chemicals and / or other additives to the fluid sample being tested, stirring, agitation and / or other mixing the sample and / or the like. In some arrangements, UV irradiation aids in breaking down, at least partially, organic compounds contained in the fluid sample, e.g., potentially by generating hydroxyl radicals when combined with oxidizing agents such as hydrogen peroxide. The desired or required level of digestion, conversion and / or other modification can be accomplished using any other technology, either in addition to or in lieu of UV and / or other energy delivery. For example, one or more chemicals or other materials can be added to the water or other fluid to be tested, the water or other fluid to be tested may be subjected to certain environmental conditions (e.g., elevated or reduced temperature and / or pressure (e.g., vis-a-vis to ambient), etc.).

[0127] According to some embodiments, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B can include a digestor or digestion device, component, system or subsystem 260. As shown schematically in FIGS. 4A and 4B, such a digestor 260 can include a heating member (e.g., heater), chemical and / or other material addition device(s) and / or component(s), a mixing member (e.g., mixer, impeller, magnetic stirrer, etc.) and / or any other component or feature. Such components or features can provide the desired and / or required level of heating, cooling, temperature control, chemical addition, mixing or agitation and / or any other function in connection with digestion or other modification of the water or other fluid to be tested. In some embodiments, the digestor 260 is configured to digest or otherwise break down or transform, at least partially (e.g., partially, substantially fully, fully, etc.), organic materials contained in the sample to be tested. The desired or required amount of digestion and / or similar treatment can be accomplished using one or more of the following (e.g., simultaneously, nonsimultaneous, etc.): heating or cooling, chemical addition, mixing or agitation and / or the like.

[0128] In some embodiments, the digestor 260 is configured to selectively receive one or more chemicals and / or other materials. Such materials can assist with the desired or required digestion and / or other modification of the w ater or other fluid to betested that occurs in the digestor 260. As illustrated schematically in FIG. 4A, chemicals and / or other materials can be delivered to the digestor 260 via one or more conduits, lines and / or other hydraulic connections 332. In some arrangements, such chemicals and / or other materials are stored within one or more containers (e.g., bottle, canister, cartridge, pouch, other container, etc.) 330. As shown, the container 330 can be included as part of a separate module, component, device, system or subsystem 300, such as a consumables module. Also, as illustrated schematically in FIGS. 2B and 3B, in some embodiments, the pretreatment module 200 is not fluidly coupled to a main consumables module 300. Instead, according to some embodiments, as discussed in greater detail herein, one or more reagents and / or other materials that are needed by the pretreatment module 200 are configured to be stored in a separate pretreatment consumables module 280 that may or may not be directly or indirectly coupled to the pretreatment module 200. Thus, in other embodiments, the container 330 storing the chemical(s) and / or other material(s) to be added to the digestor 260 can be included within the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 itself and / or at any other location within or outside the fluid treatment system 100, as desired or required.

[0129] With continued reference to FIGS. 4A to 4C, regardless of where any chemicals and / or other materials intended to be delivered to the digestor 260 are stored (e.g., a separate consumables module or subsystem 300, a dedicated consumables module 280, 280', the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 itself, another portion of the fluid testing system 100, etc.), such chemicals and / or other materials can be selectively delivered to the digestor 260 using at least one pump or other fluid transfer device 320. In the depicted arrangement, the pump is located within the consumables module or subsystem 300. In some embodiments, one, more (e.g., a majority of) or all of the components or portions of the consumables module 300 are positioned at least partially within a housing or other enclosure 302 of the module 300. However, in other embodiments, such a pump or other fluid transfer device 320 can be located within and / or can be a part of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, any other component or portion of the fluid testing system 100 and / or the like.

[0130] According to some embodiments, irrespective of where one or more pumps and / or other fluid transfer devices 320 are located, such pump(s) and / or other fluid transfer device(s) 320 can be configured to deliver (e.g., automatically deliver) a desired volume of a necessary chemical and / or other material to the digestor 260, which has or will receive a volume of water or other fluid to be tested by the system 100. In someembodiments, the pump and / or other fluid transfer device 320 comprises a peristaltic pump, a metering pump and / or any other type of pump or fluid transfer device that is configured to accurately deliver a volume (e.g., a prescribed or predetermined volume, a calculated volume, etc.) of one or more chemicals and / or other materials to the digestor 260. In some embodiments, the exact volume or amount of chemical and / or other material is based on and / or determined by one or more characteristics or properties of the water or other fluid to be tested that enters the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B. For example, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B and / or any other component or portion of the fluid testing system 100 can include or use a closed feedback loop to determine the details (e.g., type, concentration or strength, volume, rate of delivery, etc.) about any desired or required chemical delivery to the digestor 260. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B and / or any other component or portion of the fluid testing system 100 comprises at least one sensor that helps measure, detect, approximate and / or otherwise determine one or more physical, chemical, biological and / or other properties of the influent water or other fluid to be tested. In some embodiments, the sensors are configured to measure one or more of the following properties: pH, temperature, pressure, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), density, other chemical property, other physical property and / or the like.

[0131] In some embodiments, the digestor 260 allows the fluid testing system 100 to obtain (e.g., to determine, measure, approximate, calculate, etc.) a representation related to total dissolved solids in the water or other fluid entering the system 100 for testing. To obtain such a concentration or other measurement or approximation, according to some embodiments, the digestor 260 at least partially breaks down or otherwise converts certain molecules (e.g., organic contaminant molecules, other molecules or constituents, etc.) contained in the water or other fluid to be tested.

[0132] According to some embodiments, heat (e.g., thermal modification to either heat or cool), stirring and / or one or more chemicals, additives and / or other materials is / are directed, added and / or otherwise provided to the digestor 260 in order to accomplish the desired digestion and / or other modification of the fluid to be tested. In some arrangements, one or more oxidizing agents and / or devices / sy stems (e g., hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), persulfates (e.g., potassium persulfate), acids (e.g., nitric acid, sulfuric acid, other strong acids, other acids, solutions containing acids, etc.), UV-assisted oxidation and / or the like, are delivered to the digestor 260 and / or otherwise used to facilitate the at least partial oxidation and / or other desired modification of moleculesand / or materials contained in the fluid to be tested, the at least partial dissolution, breakdown, conversion and / or other modification of molecules contained in the fluid to be tested and / or any other goal related to modifying the fluid to be tested, as desired or required. Relatedly, as discussed with reference to FIG. 4C, any pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B disclosed herein, or equivalent thereof, may be configured to include components and features for additional treatment of the fluid to be tested by the fluid testing system 100. For example, a pretreatment module or subsystem can include UV disinfection, any other type of disinfection, neutralization or other chemical addition (e.g., pH adjustment) and / or the like, as desired or required.

[0133] In some embodiments, the temperature of the water or other fluid to be tested prior to entering and / or while within the digestor 260 can be modified to achieve a target temperature or a target temperature range. Such a thermal modification (e.g., heating and / or cooling) of the fluid to be tested can enhance (e.g., facilitate, accelerate or speed up, etc.) the digestion and / or other desired modification of molecules and / or other materials contained in the fluid to be tested. In some embodiments, the temperature of the fluid to be tested can be increased to a target minimum temperature and / or a desired temperature range. A minimum temperature or temperature range can be, for example and without limitation, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100 degrees C, 20 to 25, 25 to 30, 20 to 70, 20 to 80, 20 to 90, 20 to 100, 30 to 35, 35 to 40, 30 to 70, 30 to 80, 30 to 90, 30 to 100, 40 to 45, 45 to 50, 40 to 60, 50 to 60, 50 to 70, 60 to 70, 70 to 80, 70 to 95, 80 to 90, 90 to 100, 20 to 30, 20 to 40, 25 to 35, 25 to 40, 30 to 50, 40 to 60, 50 to 70, 70 to 95 degrees C, values and ranges between the foregoing, etc.).

[0134] By way of example and without limitation, in some embodiments, the fluid to be tested is heated to at least 80 to 100 degrees C (e.g.. 80 to 100, 80 to 90, 90 to 100, 85 to 95, at least 80, at least 85, at least 90, at least 95, at least 100 degrees C, values or ranges between the foregoing, etc.) prior to, while and / or after entering a digestor 260. According to some embodiments, such thermal conditioning accelerates chemical, biological and / or physical reactions and / or processes that facilitate the breakdown or conversion of constituents within the fluid. The digestion and / or other breakdown can be facilitated by, at least in part and without limitation, the use of acid digestion (e.g., via the addition of oxidizing agents, other chemicals and / or materials, etc.), mixing or agitation, pressure modification, residence time, and / or like, either in lieu of or in addition to the use of thermal conditioning. Digestion can also be impacted by additional considerations, such as, for example, the analyte(s) being tested, desired reaction kinetics and / or otherfactors.

[0135] Further, according to some embodiments, the digestor 260 can be configured to mix or otherwise agitate the fluid to be tested and any chemicals and / or other materials that are added to the digestor 260 (e.g., a reservoir or other chamber of the digestor 260). Mixing may, in certain circumstances, enhance with the desired digestion, oxidation and / or other modification of the fluid to be tested. In some arrangements, a digestor 260 is configured to accomplish the desired or required level of pretreatment to the fluid to be tested (e.g., digestion, oxidation and / or other modification of such fluid) with the assistance of at least three facilitators, including or namely, (i) thermal modification (e.g., heating or cooling), (ii) addition of one or more chemicals and / or other materials (e.g.. an oxidizing agent) and (iii) agitation or mixing of the fluid (e.g., within a reservoir or chamber of the digestor, before, during and / or after the addition of any chemicals to the digestor). In other arrangements, only two of the three facilitators are used to assist with digestion and / or other modification of the fluid to be tested. For example, thermal modification and chemical addition only, thermal modification and agitation or mixing only, chemical addition and agitation or mixing only can be used to facilitate the desired modification to the fluid to be tested. In other embodiments, only one of the three facilitators discussed above is used, as desired or required.

[0136] With continued reference to FIGS. 4A to 4C, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B can include a dilution step (e.g.. using a dilution device, component, system, subsystem, assembly, module or the like 270). During such a dilution step, a volume of water (e.g., potable water, distilled water, etc.) can be added to a volume of fluid to be tested (e.g., a volume of such fluid contained within a reservoir or chamber of the dilution component or subsystem 270) to dilute the fluid by a desired or required ratio or amount. Dilution of the fluid to be tested can be beneficial to the testing that subsequently occurs in one or more of the testing modules of the system 100. For example, in some arrangements, dilution of a volume of water or other fluid to be tested can bring the water or other fluid to a desired detection range for a specific analyte and / or other component being determined by the fluid testing system 100. The dilution ratio or amount can be fixed or variable. For instance, the dilution ratio can depend on one or more of the following: source of the fluid to be tested, a predicted range of concentration or other quantitative measurement for one or more analytes, materials and / or other properties associated with the fluid to be tested.

[0137] With continued reference to FIGS. 4A to 4C, the pretreatment moduleor subsystem 200 may include a dilution module or assembly 270 to lower the concentration of one or more analytes in the fluid to be tested. In certain embodiments, environmental analytical protocols require and / or are improved by a dilution factor ranging from 1:1 to 1:20 (e.g., 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:15, 1:20, 1:1 to 1:2, 1:1 to 1:3, 1:1 to 1:4, 1:1 to 1:5, 1:1 to 1:10, 1:1 to 1:15, 1:1 to 1:20, 1:5 to 1:10, 1:5 to 1:15, 1:5 to 1:20, l:10to 1:15, 1:15 to 1:20, 1:10 to 1:20, values or ranges between the foregoing, etc.). In some embodiments, broader or narrower ranges can be utilized, depending on or more factors and / or considerations. Such factors and / or considerations can include, for example, the sample matrix being tested (e.g., due to differences between different types of fluids, such as drinking water and industrial effluent), target analytes, the sensitivity of subsequent testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d. In some embodiments, the dilution ratio can vary based on, at least in part and by way of example, regulatory requirements, instrument detection limits, sample composition (e.g., turbidity, suspended solids) and / or the like.

[0138] In some embodiments, the details regarding dilution of the volume of water or other fluid entering the dilution member , device, system or subsystem 270 (e.g., the amount of dilution) is at least partially (e g., partially, fully, etc.) automated (e.g., based on, at least in part, user input, predicted analyte and / or other properties of the water or other fluid to be tested, actual data obtained via sensor and / or other methods, a feedback loop and / or any other input, data and / or considerations). In some embodiments, the dilution details are determined by the user, the manufacturer or supplier of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 and / or the system 100 and / or another human or non-human entity' (e.g., by an Al-driven computing device). For example, the dilution ratio can be selected by the end-user of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 and testing system 100 (e.g., via a local or remote controller).

[0139] With reference to FIGS. 4A to 4C, the dilution module or subsystem 270 can be in fluid communication with a dilution fluid source DS. The dilution fluid source DS can include a container (e.g., tank, bottle, canister, cartridge, pouch, etc.) configured to contain a dilution fluid (e.g., distilled or demineralized water, tap or other potable water, etc.). In some embodiments, the dilution fluid source DS comprises a flowing stream, such as, for example, a pressurized drinking water line, a pressurized distilled water line, etc.). In some embodiments, the dilution fluid source DS is included in the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 (as shown schematically in FIG. 4). Alternatively, the dilution fluid source DS can be separate of the pretreatment module orsubsystem 200. For instance, the dilution fluid source DS can be part of (e.g., incorporated within, secured to, etc.) the testing system 100 (e.g.. located at least partially on and / or within a housing or other enclosure of the system 100), can be included with the consumables module or subsystem 300, can be included in a dedicated pretreatment consumables module 280 (see, e.g., FIG. 4B), can be separate of some, most (e.g., a majority of) or all of the components, subsystems, modules and / or portions of the testing system and / or the like, as desired or required.

[0140] Depending on its source, a volume of water or other dilution fluid (e.g. a volume desired to achieve a target dilution ratio, as discussed herein) can be transferred from the dilution fluid source DS to a reservoir, tank, chamber or other retention area of the dilution module or subsystem 270 with or without the need of added energy (e.g., via a positive pressure pump, a suction device, etc.). In the embodiment schematically illustrated in FIGS. 4A to 4C, a pump (e.g., peristaltic pump) 276 or other low-volume fluid transfer device is used to move dilution fluid (e.g., water) from the dilution fluid source DS to the dilution module or subsystem 270 (e.g., a reservoir, tank, chamber, etc.) via one or more conduits and / or other fluid connections 274.

[0141] In some embodiments, the pump or other fluid transfer device 276 is included in the pretreatment module or subsystem 200. Alternatively, the pump 276 can be separate of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200. For instance, the pump or other fluid transfer device 276 can be part of (e.g.. incorporated within, secured to. etc.) the testing system 100 (e.g., located at least partially on and / or within a housing or other enclosure of the system 100), can be included with the consumables module or subsystem 300, can be separate of some, most or all of the components, subsystems, modules and / or portions of the testing system and / or the like, as desired or required.

[0142] As illustrated in FIG. 4A, the dilution module or subsystem 270 can be configured to accommodate for one or more adjustments (e.g., physical, chemical, biological, biochemical, etc.) to the water or other fluid to be tested, besides (e.g., in addition to and separate of any) dilution. By way of example and without limitation, the pH of the water or other fluid to be tested can be adjusted within or by the dilution module or subsystem 270. However, pH adjustment and / or any other adjustment can be accomplished at another step, stage and / or module or subsystem of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200. For instance, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 can include a stand-alone pH adjustment module or subsystem, as illustrated and discussed herein with reference to the embodiment of illustrated in FIG. 4C. Alternatively, pHand / or any other adjustment or modification to the fluid to be tested (e.g., via chemical addition) can be performed within the digestor 260 and / or any other module, subsystem, process, step, etc., as desired or required.

[0143] With continued reference to the embodiment of FIGS. 4A and 4C, a basic and / or acidic solution or other material can be selectively provided to the dilution module or subsystem 270 to adjust (e.g., increase or lower) the pH of the volume of fluid to be tested. Such an adjustment can be performed automatically by the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 and / or the overall testing system 100 (e.g., based on a feedback loop, sensor measurements (e.g., pH measurements of the fluid to be tested before it enters the dilution module or subsystem 270, while it is within a reservoir or other chamber of the module or subsystem 270 and / or upon its exit from the module or subsystem 270), feedback for a parameter other than pH and / or the like. As with any digestion, oxidation and / or other modification of the sample that occurs in the digestor 260 or other module, adjustment of pH of the fluid to be tested by the fluid testing system 100 can assist with the subsequent testing of certain analytes and / or other parameters. In any case, the pH of the water or other fluid to be tested can be determined and recorded prior to any modification, as the pH of the sampled volume of water or other fluid may be a parameter that the user wishes to measure, track and / or monitor.

[0144] As illustrated in FIGS. 4Aand 4C, a pH adjustment fluid (e.g., an acid, a base, formulations that are acidic or basic, etc.) and / or other material can be contained within one or more containers (e.g., bottles, canisters, cartridges, pouches, bags, etc.) 340 of a separate consumables module or subsystem 300. However, in other arrangements, such acidic, basic and / or other fluids or materials (e.g., hydrogen peroxide, nitric acid, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acids, potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, other acids, other bases, etc.) are stored in one or more containers positioned outside the consumables module or subsystem 300. For example, the source (e.g., bottle(s), canister(s), container(s), cartridge(s), pouch(es), etc.) 340 can be located within the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 itself, another portion on and / or within the fluid testing system 100 and / or at a location outside the system 100 and / or any of its modules or subsystems 200, 300, as desired or required. In some embodiments, for instance, as depicted schematically in FIG. 4B, a pH adjustment fluid and / or other material is contained within one or more containers Cl, C2 of (or secured to) a dedicated pretreatment consumables module or portion 280, which may or may not form a unitary structure with the pretreatment module 200B.

[0145] Although in the embodiment of FIG. 4A pH adjustment occurs within the same module or subsystem 270 as dilution (e.g., within the dilution subsystem or module 270), in other arrangements, pH adjustment can be performed in a dedicated, separate pH adjustment module or subsystem and / or in any other module or subsystem. By way of example and without limitation, for example, as illustrated schematically in FIG. 4B, pH adjustment can occur within a digestor 260 of the pretreatment module 200B. In other embodiments, the addition of a chemical and / or other material (e.g., to adjust pH and / or any other physical, chemical and / or biological property of the fluid being tested) can occur in any of the devices, systems, subsystems, components and / or portions of the pretreatment module 200, 200B, as desired or required. In the embodiment of FIG. 4C, for example, a dedicated component (e.g., a neutralizer module or component) 294 is included in the pretreatment module to change a pH and / or another chemical parameter of the fluid to be tested. Regardless, as with any other module or subsystem that involves or includes the addition of one or more chemicals, materials and / or other additives, basic and / or acidic solution can be stored in one or more containers 340 that can be selectively transferred to a chamber or reservoir of the dilution module or subsystem 270 (and / or a different module or subsystem, as noted above) using one or more pumps or other fluid transfer devices 346, conduits or other fluid lines 342 and / or any other desired or required hydraulic components or features, as desired or required. As with other modules, subsystems, components and / or the like, the pump 346 can include a peristaltic pump, a metering pump and / or any other fluid transfer device.

[0146] FIG. 4C schematically illustrates an embodiment of a pretreatment module that is different in one or more respects from the module 200 discussed herein with specific reference to FIG. 4A. For clarity and conciseness, certain devices, components, portions and / or other features are not specifically called out in FIG. 4C (e.g., when compared to FIG. 4A). As discussed above and illustrated in FIG. 4C, a pretreatment module or subsystem for a fluid testing system can include one or more components or features for the treatment of fluid to be tested, including, for example and without limitation, filtration or other solids removal (e.g., gravity settling, screening, etc.), dilution, digestion, chemical addition, agitation, thermal modification (e.g., heating, cooling, heating and cooling, etc.), disinfection and / or the like. The configuration of a pretreatment module or subsystem depicted in FIG. 4C comprises a dedicated chemical addition or neutralizer component or module 294. Such a component or module 294 can be configured to chemically modify one or more aspects of the fluid passing through thepretreatment or subsystem. This can be done to assist or improve (or even make possible) with the testing that will occur to the fluid in one or more testing modules of the system 100.

[0147] According to some embodiments, the neutralizer or other chemical addition component or module 294 of the pretreatment module or subsystem is configured to adjust the pH of the fluid passing through the pretreatment module or subsystem. As noted herein, an adjustment of the pH can facilitate the testing of the fluid in one or more of the testing modules of the overall fluid testing system. In the embodiment of FIG. 4C, a chemical additive source 296 is configured to provide a base or an acid to adjust the pH of the fluid to a desired value or range (e.g., 7, 6 to 8. 5 to 7, 7 to 9, below 7, below 6, above 7. above 8, any other pH value or range, etc.), as desired or required. In other embodiments, the chemical additive source 296 can include one or more chemicals to modify one or more other parameters of the fluid being tested (e.g., alkalinity , oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), salinity', etc.), either in addition to or in lieu of pH adjustment, as desired or required.

[0148] One or more sensors (e.g., pH sensors, other chemical sensors, etc.) can be included in the neutralizer or other chemical addition component or module 294 of the pretreatment module or subsystem to ensure that the required or desired level of neutralization (e.g., pH adjustment, other chemical modification of the fluid being tested, etc.) is achieved. Data from such sensors can be provided to a processor or other computing component of or related to the pretreatment module or subsystem and / or of the overall testing system to adjust the delivery of chemicals (e.g., acids, bases, etc.) to the fluid being tested to achieve a desired result (e.g., a desired pH adjustment, a desired chemical composition, etc.). As noted herein, any chemicals used within or by a pretreatment module or subsystem can be contained in and delivered to the fluid from one or more containers (e.g., bottles, pouches, reservoirs, other containers, etc.) positioned at least partially within and / or on the pretreatment module or subsystem. In some embodiments, such chemical containers can be filled / re-filled or replaced by a user. Alternatively, such containers can be separate from the pretreatment module or subsystem. For example, chemical containers can be included as part of a consumables module (e.g., such as any of those disclosed herein or equivalents thereof). Such a consumables module can be a module that provides chemicals only to the pretreatment module or subsystem or one that supplies chemicals to other portions of a testing system (e.g., individual testing modules of the overall testing system). Neutralizer or otherchemical addition components or modules 294, such as those described above, can be incorporated into any pretreatment module or subsystem disclosed herein or equivalent thereof.

[0149] With continued reference to FIG. 4C, a pretreatment module or subsystem can further include one or more additional components, portions or features. For instance, the depicted embodiment comprises a disinfection component or module 292. Such a component or module 292 can be configured to disinfect the fluid to be tested such that all or substantially all (e.g., over 90%) of the microorganisms located in the fluid to be tested are killed or otherwise neutralized. This can assist with maintaining the integrity of the fluid being tested for the subsequent testing to be performed in one or more of the testing modules. For example, disinfection can prevent bacteria or other microorganism present in the fluid from altering (e.g., altering further once within the pretreatment module or subsystem) the biological and / or chemical nature of the fluid.

[0150] In some embodiments, the disinfection component or module 292 comprises UV (e.g., UVC) or other light-based treatment. However, disinfection can be accomplished using other technologies either in addition to or in lieu of light-based disinfection. For instance, one or more chemicals can be added to the fluid to be tested to partially or fully kill or inactivate waterborne pathogens (e.g., bacteria, viruses, parasites). Such chemicals can include, but are not limited to, chlorine, chloramines, chlorine dioxide, ozone, other oxidizing agents and / or the like. In some embodiments, disinfection can be accomplished using, at least in part, the application of heat (e.g., conductively, convectively, via any other heat transfer method or technology7, etc.) to the fluid. One or more heaters and other heat transfer devices can be used. One or more disinfection (e.g., UVC or other light-based disinfection, chemical based disinfection, thermal-based disinfection, etc.) components or modules 292, such as those described above, can be incorporated into any pretreatment module or subsystem disclosed herein or equivalent thereof.

[0151] With continued reference to FIGS. 4A to 4C, the dilution / pH adjustment module or subsystem 270, the digestor 260 and / or any other module or subsystem of the pretreatment module 200, 200B can be configured to provide thermal modification (e.g., heating, cooling), mixing or agitation and / or the like to the water or other fluid entering within the particular module, subsystem, component and / or portion. For instance, the module or system can include a heating element (e.g., electric heating element or member) that is direct or indirect contact with the water or other fluid to betested. In any case, such a heating member can advantageously be in thermal communication with the fluid to be tested in order to selectively heat the fluid to a desired temperature or temperature range. In some embodiments, the reservoir, chamber or other containment portion of the module or subsystem 260, 270 comprises one or more sensing elements (e.g., sensor) to detect, in real time, the temperature of the fluid. Data from such sensors can be communicated to one or more processors (e.g., of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B, a consumables module or subsystem 300, a dedicated pretreatment consumables modules 280, 280' and / or any other portion of the testing system 100) to regulate the application (e.g., addition, removal, etc.) of possible additional heat to the fluid.

[0152] As shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C and discussed above with reference to another potion, unit or member of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B (e.g., a digestor 260), the dilution and / or pH adjustment module or subsystem 270 and / or any other module or subsystem can include a heating member (e.g., heater), a mixing member (e.g., mixer, impeller, magnetic stirrer, etc.) and / or any other component or feature. Such components or features can provide the desired and / or required level of heating, cooling, temperature control, mixing or agitation and / or any other function in connection with digestion or other modification of the water or other fluid to be tested.

[0153] In some embodiments, as discussed above in connection with the digestor 260 and the dilution / pH adjustment module, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 can include one more devices, systems, components and / or members to thermally condition (e.g., heat, cool) a fluid (e.g., water or other fluid to be tested). This can be performed, for example and without limitation, within one more modules, subsystems or portions of a pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B. such as, for instance, in the digestor 260 and / or the dilution / pH adjustment module or subsystem 270, as illustrated schematically in FIGS. 4A and 4B. With specific reference to thermal conditioning, the desired or required heating and / or cooling of (e.g., heat transfer to or from) the fluid to be tested, any type of thermal conditioning can be used, such as, by way of example and without limitation, conductive, indirect heating (e.g., via a heating plate or other heating member). Alternative heating and / or cooling devices or technologies can be used and may include, for example and without limitation, heating elements that are in direct contact with the fluid being tested, Peltier devices or other thermoelectric devices for convective or conductive heating and / or cooling, other conductive or convective heating or cooling devices, etc.

[0154] Similarly, the mixing of water or fluid to be tested within one or more modules, subsystems or portions of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 is described in the context of an impeller and / or a stir plate, such as, for example, in the digest or 260, the neutralizer or other chemical additive module or subsystem 294 and / or the dilution / pH adjustment module or subsystem 270. However, any other type of stirring, agitation or mixing can be incorporated to the module or subsystem 200, either in addition to the use of an impeller or other mixing device that is in direct contact with the fluid and / or a stir plate system. For example, a chamber, reservoir or other containment portion within the treatment module or subsystem can be configured to selectively move (e.g., rotate, undulate, move laterally, etc.) to create the necessary mixing.

[0155] By way of non-limiting example, the system may incorporate ultrasonic transducers (e.g., sonication) to induce cavitation and promote rapid homogenization; pulsed or cyclic pressurization to re-suspend solids and distribute reagents; gas sparging (e.g., injecting a carrier gas) to enhance mixing and oxidation reactions; or magnetically driven stirring devices that eliminate direct mechanical contact with the fluid. In some embodiments, microwave or infrared irradiation can be employed for localized heating or enhanced digestion, in combination with (or in lieu of) conventional thermal conditioning. The inventions described herein are not limited to these particular examples, and any suitable mixing, agitation, or heating mechanism may be utilized, independently or in combination, to ensure uniform sample preparation prior to downstream analytical testing.

[0156] As schematically depicted in FIGS. 4A to 4C, the various modules, subsystems and / or other units or steps (e.g., a media fdter 230, a membrane filter 240, an energy delivery device or system 250 (e.g.. containing ultraviolet lamps and / or other energy source, chemical addition, agitation or other mixing, heating, cooling or other thermal conditioning, etc.), a digestor 260 or other reactor for modifying (e.g., chemically, biologically, physically, combinations thereof, etc.) of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 can be arranged, at least partially, in a series orientation, wherein the water or other fluid to be tested moves to a second or subsequent module only after exiting the first module. In other embodiments, however, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 is configured to direct the flow of water or other fluid to be tested in a parallel orientation, either in addition to or in lieu of a series orientation, as desired or required. Any of the pretreatment modules described herein or equivalents thereof can be modified to include, at least in part, such a parallel orientation. As notedherein, two or more modules, systems, subsystems, devices, components and / or the like can be combined, as desired or required. For example, UV-based digestion or other conversion can be combined with another module, device, system, subsystem, components and / or the like of the pretreatment module. In some embodiments, the UV-based module or other system, subsystem, device, component and / or the like that assists with digestion, can be combined, at least in part, with the digestor module. In some embodiments, a digestor module can be configured to receive one or more chemicals, solutions and / or other additives (e.g., from corresponding bottles, containers or other sources) for pH adjustment and / or any other desired goal.

[0157] Regardless of the exact orientation, order and / or other details of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B, one or more hydraulic devices, components and / or other members can be included to route the water or other fluid to be tested from the inlet 202 to the outlet 204. For instance, as illustrated schematically in FIGS. 4A to 4C, the various modules, subsystems and / or components or members can be fluidly connected to each other (e.g., in fluid communication with each other, either directly or indirectly) using one more piping systems (e.g., conduit, other lines, fittings, etc.), pumps or other fluid transfer devices (e.g., positive pressure pump, suction or vacuum pump, etc.) 220, pressure reducing valves 224, other valves V (e.g., to turn flow on or off, to modulate flowrate, etc.) and / or the like. In some embodiments, any one of the valves V used in pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B comprises a ball valve, a gate valve, a butterfly valve, a gate valve, a globe valve, a pinch valve, a check valve, a duckbill valve, any other one-way valve, a solenoid valve and / or the like. At least some (e.g., some, all, etc.) of the valves V included in a pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B can be remotely and / or automatically operated (e.g.. according to an automatic protocol operating on a processor or other computing system of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B and / or any other component or portion of the testing system 100 and / or any device operatively coupled to the system 100).

[0158] As also schematically illustrated in FIGS. 4A to 4C, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B can include one or more sensors S along various locations. Such sensors can include, for example and without limitation, a flow or flowrate sensor, a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor and / or the like. Data collected from such sensor(s) S can be used to monitor the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 and / or the overall testing system 100, and in certain embodiments, modify one or more aspects of the operation, cleaning, other maintenance and / or any other characteristic ofthe module 200, 200B or overall system 100, as desired or required. For instance, as shown in FIG. 4. an influent (or upstream) pressure of fluid entering the filter module 230 can be sensed or otherwise detected by a first sensor Su, whereas a second sensor Sd can be used to sense or otherw ise detect an outflow (or downstream) pressure of fluid exiting the filter module 230. By way of example, data collected from such sensors Su, Sd, S can be used to determine if the filter module or subsystem 230 is functioning properly or if a backwash or other cleaning or maintenance procedure is necessary. Such upstream / downstream sensor configurations can be used for and incorporated into any module, subsystem and / or other portion or aspect of the pretreatment module or subsystem and / or any other portion of the testing system 100, including, for example, the embodiment schematically illustrated in FIG. 4B. In some embodiments, more or fewer sensors S than those schematically illustrated in FIGS. 4 A, 4B and / or 4C or any other figure provided herein can be used, in accordance with a particular application or use.

[0159] The specific type, quantity, orientation, order and / or other details of the modules or subsystems 230. 240, 250, 260, 270, 290 (e.g., via filtration, UV energy application, digestion or other modification, pH adjustment, dilution, deairing or degassing, etc.) included in a particular pretreatment module 200, 200B can vary. In some embodiments, such details are customized in accordance with one or more factors and other considerations, including, for example, properties of the fluid being tested, the analytes to be tested, the corresponding testing requirements and related details, etc.

[0160] FIG. 4B schematically illustrates an embodiment of a pretreatment module 200B that is different in one or more respects from the module 200 discussed herein with specific reference to FIG. 4A. For clarity and conciseness, certain devices, components, portions and / or other features are not specifically called out in FIG. 4B (e.g., when compared to FIG. 4A). As with the embodiment of FIG. 4A, the depicted pretreatment module 200B includes a filtration module 230, a UV or energy module 250, a digestor or digestion module 260 and a dilution module 270. However, the illustrated module 200B includes certain differences vis-a-vis the embodiment of FIG. 4 A. For example, the media filtration module 230 of the pretreatment module 200B of FIG. 4B comprises a multi-stage filter assembly or configuration. In some embodiments, the filter module 230 comprises a three-stage filter, as illustrated in FIG. 4B. However, in other embodiments, more or fewer stages or portions can be included, as desired or required. The use of two or more stages or steps can improve the filtering process to help remove additional undesirable components from the fluid sample being tested and / or do to it in anenhanced manner (e.g., more efficient from a time perspective, more efficient from an operating expense and / or maintenance perspective, etc.).

[0161] With continued reference to FIG. 4B, a pretreatment module 200B can also include a collection reservoir or chamber 290. Such a device, system or feature can assist with eliminating air and / or other gases that may be trapped, generated and / or otherwise present within the fluid to be tested after it has been delivered to the pretreatment module 200B. Any other device, system, subsystem, component and / or feature can be used to help remove unwanted gases, either in addition to or in lieu of the use of a collection chamber 290. For example, one or more valves, other gas release components or features, open channel and / or the like can be incorporated into a pretreatment module 200. 200B. including any of the modules 200, 200B described herein and variations thereof.

[0162] Other differences with the module 200B of FIG. 4B include incorporating the UV treatment (and / or any other energy delivery7source, a source for oxidation, digestion, breakdown and / or other transformation of materials within the fluid to be tested (e.g., organic material) in the same module or closely coupled to the digestion module 260. Likewise, pH adjustment to the fluid being tested is performed in the digestion module 260 in the embodiment of FIG. 4B. In contrast, pH adjustment was performed in the dilution module 270 in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4A. The details regarding which steps or subsystems are included, where they are included and / or the like can be modified, as desired or required by a particular application or use.

[0163] As with any other module or subsystem that may be included in a pretreatment module 200, 200B, the fluid to be tested can be stirred, agitated or otherwise mixed, can be thermally conditioned (e.g., heated or cooled) and / or otherwise modified. Accordingly, any of the modules or subsystems of a pretreatment module 200, 200B can include the necessary and / or desired equipment, features, components, devices and / or the like.

[0164] The order of the various modules or subsystems within the pretreatment module 200, 200B can also be modified. For example, in FIG. 4B, the digestion module 260 is located downstream of the dilution module 270, whereas in the embodiment of FIG. 4A, the digestion module 260 is upstream of the dilution module 270.

[0165] According to some embodiments, as shown schematically in FIGS. 4A to 4C, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B is configured to performbackwashing and / or other cleaning of at least a portion (e.g., at least some portion, the entire portion, etc.) of the module or subsystem's hydraulic system. In some embodiments, one or more cleaning agents (e.g., disinfectants, antibacterial solutions, etc.) can be delivered through at least a portion of the module or subsystem (e.g., individual modules or subsystems of the module or subsystem 200, 200B, conduits, valves, fluid network, etc.). For example, one or more cleaning agents can be delivered from a cleaning module or subsystem 350 (e.g., a reservoir, chamber or other container or containment portion of the module or subsystem) to the desired or required portion of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B.

[0166] In the embodiment of FIG. 4A, the cleaning agent(s) is / are positioned in a cleaning module or subsystem 350 located within the consumables module or subsystem 300. However, in other arrangements, the consumables module or subsystem 300 is positioned within and / or associated with the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 itself and / or another location, either as a part of the overall testing system 100 or separate from it. as desired or required. In some embodiments, as discussed herein in connection with FIG. 2B and 3B, chemicals (including cleaning agents) can be stored or otherwise positioned in a dedicated pretreatment consumables module, which may or may not be secured to and / or form a unitary structure with the module 200, 200B.

[0167] For any use within a testing system, including a pretreatment module, separate testing modules, fluidic networks and / or the like, one more cleaning agents can be used to maintain a desired level of cleanliness. Such agents and / or other cleaning materials include mineral acids, strong bases, oxidizing solutions, advanced chemical cleaning agents, detergent or surfactant solutions, mild or neutral cleaners and / or the like.

[0168] In some embodiments, the sand or other media filter module 230 is configured to be cleaned or regenerated using one or more backwash procedures. For example, a fluid (e.g., water, one or more cleaning agents, etc.) can be delivered to the sand or other media of the filter module 230 (e.g., by selectively regulating (e.g., opening, closing, modulating, etc.) certain valves to direct such fluid to an interior of the module containing the sand or other media. Under the proper conditions of fluid flow, agitation and / or the like, this process can release the trapped contaminants into the fluid, which can be removed from the filter module 230, and thus the larger pretreatment module or subsystem 200 by directing the flow to a waste exit or outlet 206 of the moule 200. In other embodiments, it is sufficient to direct a volume of cleaning agent and / or other fluid (e.g., tap water, distilled water, other solutions, etc.) through a portion of the fluidicnetworks (e.g., conduits or other fluid lines, fittings, valves, pumps or other fluid transfer devices, etc.) and / or other components (e.g., modules 230, 240. 250, 260, 270, etc.). Again, as with the backwashing of the filter module 230 described above, the cleaning agent(s), the waste materials generated during a cleaning procedure and / or any other fluid used in a cleaning procedure can be selectively discarded through the hydraulic network of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 through one or more waste outlets or exits 206, as desired or required.

[0169] In some embodiments, the pretreatment module or subsystem is configured to use a backwashing and / or other cleaning procedure based, at least in part, on the type of fluid that is passing through such a module or subsystem. Thus, the chemicals used (e.g., type, strength, etc.), the frequency of cleaning and / or other details related to such procedures can be modified by the system to ensure proper maintenance. The system can include data obtained by one or more sensors of the pretreatment module or subsystem to determine a desired or required backwashing and / or other cleaning protocol. Backwashing and / or other cleaning procedures can be initiated automatically by the system. Alternatively, the system can be adapted to perform such procedures manually, either in addition or in lieu of any automated aspects that the system includes. In some embodiments, multi-path combinations for backwashing can be realized with corresponding plumbing designs. For example, any fluidic section of the device can be either bypassed or included in the backwash process, as desired or required.

[0170] In some embodiments, a volume of water or other fluid to be tested, and thus volume directed to an initial pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B, can be configured to move through the module or subsystem 200, 200B using a batch approach. However, in other embodiments, a continuous flow (or non-batch) approach is used by the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 to move a volume of water or other fluid to be tested therethrough. Such flow configurations or schemes can be incorporated into any of the pretreatment modules or subsystems disclosed herein, as desired or required. In a batch system, for example, a specific volume can be transferred, directly or indirectly, from a source (e.g., a river, a lake, a pipe, etc.) to the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B via one or more inlets or inlet openings 202. In some embodiments, a finite volume of such water or other fluid is moved to the inlet, using, for instance, one or more pumps or other fluid transfer devices 220. The volume of fluid can be delivered to a first module or portion of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B, such as, for example, illustrated and discussed herein with reference to the arrangement depictedin FIGS. 4A and 4B, a filter 230. In a batch configuration, that volume of water or other fluid to be tested moves through the various modules, subsystems and / or steps of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, 200B before an additional volume of fluid can be delivered to the module or subsystem 200. In a continuous flow configuration, however, a volume of water or other fluid to be tested is continuously (e.g., at least for some finite period of time, e.g., 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 0 to 30 minutes, 1 hour to 2 hours, 0 to 2 hours. 0 to 3 hours, 0 to 6 hours, more than 6 hours, time values between the foregoing values and ranges, etc ).

[0171] As also schematically illustrated in FIGS. 4A to 4C, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200. 200B can include one or more bypass fluid conduits or lines 214 that transfer a volume of water or other fluid to be tested from the testing fluid source (e.g., river, lake, pipe, etc.) directly to a testing system 100. In other words, such a bypass line 214 can ensure that a volume of water or other fluid to be tested does not get treated and / or otherw ise modified by one or more of the modules or subsystems 230, 240, 250, 260, 270 (e.g., via filtration. UV energy application, digestion or other modification, pH adjustment, dilution, etc.). As shown, such a bypass line 214 can exit the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 via one or more secondary or bypass exits or outlets 204b. In some embodiments, a first volume or fraction of fluid to be tested is modified in at least one manner by the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 before it is tested by one or more testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c. 160d of the testing system 100, whereas a second volume or fraction of fluid to be tested is directed to one or more testing modules 1 0a, 160b, 160c, 160d of the testing system 100 without any pretreatment (e.g., via one or more bypass conduits or lines 214 of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200). Such a bypass configuration or feature can be incorporated into any pretreatment module embodiment, including any of the specific embodiments illustrated and / or described herein.

[0172] As shown schematically in FIGS. 5A and 5B, a pretreatment module or subsystem 200 can comprise fewer, more and / or different modules, subsystems, devices, components and / or other features, as desired or required. By way of example, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 depicted in FIGS. 5A and 5B include only a fraction of the modules or subsystems of the embodiments of FIGS. 4A to 4C. Specifically, in the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 5A, the illustrated pretreatment module or subsystem 200 comprises a filter module or subsystem 230, an oxidation and / or other device or system 250 that facilitates the at least partial digestion, breakdown,conversion, transformation and / or modification of certain compounds and / or other materials contained in the fluid sample being tested (e.g.. organic materials). As discussed herein, such a device or system 250 can include, by way of example and without limitation, one or more ultraviolet (UV) lamps, UV lamp arrays, other light-based device, system or component, other energy' delivery' device, system or component, chemical addition, thermal modification (e.g., heating, cooling), stirring, agitation and / or other mixing, etc.), and a dilution / pH adjustment module or subsystem 270. However, in other arrangements, a different module or subsystem configuration can be used (e.g., having feyver, more and / or different modules or subsystems), in accordance yvith the particular fluid to be tested, the intended or desired testing goals and / or one or more other factors or considerations.

[0173] As illustrated in the schematic of FIG. 5A, as with the embodiment of FIG. 4A, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 can be in fluid communication yvith a consumables module 300 that is configured to store one or more chemicals, fluids, reagents, solutions and / or other consumable materials that can be selectively delivered to one or more other portions of the testing system 100, including, for example and without limitation, a pretreatment module or subsystem 200, one or more testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d of the testing system 100 and / or the tike. In some embodiments, a consumables module 300 is configured to store all or substantially all (e.g., a majority) of the chemicals, fluids, reagents, solutions and / or other consumable materials that are needed for the normal operation of the testing system 100. This is schematically illustrated in FIG. 2, yvhere a consumables module or subsystem 300 is in fluid communication yvith all modules, systems, subsystems, components, devices and / or other portions of the testing system 100, including, for example, testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d ... 160n, a pretreatment module or subsystem 200 and the like. However, in other arrangements, only some of the chemicals, fluids, reagents, solutions and / or other consumable materials are configured to be stored in a consumables module 300, as desired or required for a particular application or use.

[0174] The pretreatment module 200 illustrated in FIG. 5B includes a filtration module or subsystem 230, a UV or other energy delivery and / or other oxidation / digestion module or subsystem 250 and a dilution module or subsystem 270. As shown, a dedicated pretreatment consumables module 280 can be in fluid communication with the pretreatment module 200 and configured to selectively provide one or more reagents, chemicals, solutions and / or other materials to the pretreatmentmodule. The dedicated pretreatment consumables module 280 can be separate of the pretreatment module or can be secured to / incorporated into the pretreatment module 200, as discussed herein. The dedicated pretreatment consumables module 280 can include one or more couplings (e.g., quick connect couplings, other features, etc.) to facilitate the positioning of one or more containers Cl, C2 therein or thereto.

[0175] FIG. 3A schematically illustrates a fluid flow network of one embodiment of a testing system 100. As shown and discussed herein, the system 100 can comprise and / or can be configured to operatively couple to and work with a pretreatment module or subsystem 200. As discussed herein, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 can perform one or more modifications to the raw sample of water or other fluid to be tested by the system 100. Such modifications (and the related modules, systems, subsystems, components and / or portions that perform such modifications) can include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: filtration, ultraviolet and / or other energy treatment, digestion (e.g., chemical, biological, biochemical modifications, etc.), heating or cooling, stirring or other mixing, pH adjustment, or neutralization and / or chemical addition, disinfection, dilution and / or the like, as desired or required.

[0176] As depicted schematically in FIG. 3A, in some arrangements, water or other fluid to be tested is initially directed to a pretreatment module or subsystem 200 (e.g., for filtration, digestion, dilution, pH adjustment, etc ). However, as noted herein, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 and / or the overall testing system 100 can be configured such that at least a portion of the volume of fluid to be tested does not undergo any modification by the pretreatment module or subsystem 200. Thus, in some embodiments, one or more of the system’s testing modules or subsystems 160a, 160b, 160c. 160d ... 160n receive a volume of the fluid to be tested in its original (e.g., unmodified) form or condition, while one or more other testing modules or subsystems 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d ... 160n receive a volume of the fluid to be tested in a modified (e.g., non-original) form or condition. For example, as noted herein, modification of the fluid to be tested can include, without limitation or restriction, filtration, ultraviolet treatment, breakdown, conversion or other transformation (e.g., of organic material), digestion, dilution, pH adjustment, or other neutralization and / or other chemical addition, disinfection, thermal conditioning (e.g., heating, cooling, etc.), mixing and / or the like.

[0177] According to some embodiments, a fluid testing system 100 can be configured to deliver more than two different versions of a fluid to be tested. For instance, a pretreatment module or subsystem 200 can be configured to deliver a firstmodified version of the fluid, as well as distinct second and third (or more) modified versions of the fluid, as desired or required. This can be accomplished by, for example, subjecting separate and distinct volumes of the fluid to be tested to a different sequences of pretreatment procedures or steps in the pretreatment module or subsystem 200. In addition to or in lieu of one or more modified versions of the fluid to be tested, a volume of raw (e.g., unmodified) fluid can be provided by the module 200 (e.g.. via one or more bypass or other fluidic features).

[0178] As discussed herein with reference to FIG. 1, fluid to be tested entering a testing system 100 (e.g., via an inlet or inlet line 112) can be distributed or otherwise directed within the system using one or more of the following: a conduit, piping or other line, channel, other opening or passage, fitting, valve, pump or other fluid transfer device. A volume of fluid to be tested by the system 100 can be delivered to one or more testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d ... 160n via a common header, collection channel or member, reservoir, distribution member, manifold 150, etc., as schematically illustrated in FIG. 1. Thus, in some embodiments, two or more of the testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d ... 160n are in fluid communication with one another using a parallel fluid flow orientation or scheme to the modules. As opposed to a serial fluid flow orientation or scheme, the depicted parallel embodiment permits for the concurrent testing of a water or other fluid sample by having such fluid delivered to corresponding modules at the same time or substantially at the same time.

[0179] As noted herein, such a parallel fluid flow and testing scheme can decrease the time needed to fully test and analyze a particular fluid sample, can increase operational efficiency, can increase manufacturing and design efficiency as it pertains to the corresponding system and its modules, subsystems, devices and other components, can promote, support or facilitate for redundant testing (e.g., testing performed by identical or similar testing modules to ensure or increase the likelihood of accuracy and reliability in the test results) and / or can provide one or more other advantage or benefit.

[0180] In some embodiments, as shown schematically in FIG. 2, the fluid to be tested can be directed to a pretreatment module or subsystem 200 prior to entering the portion of the testing system 100 that houses the testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d ... 160n. If the fluid to be tested is initially directed to such a pretreatment module or subsystem 200, at least a portion of the fluid entering one or more of the testing modules 160 may be modified relative to the raw fluid sample being tested. As discussed herein, at least a portion of the fluid to be tested entering the pretreatment module or subsystem200 can be subjected to one or more of the following: filtering, ultraviolet or other light treatment, other breakdown, conversion or other transformation (e.g.. of organic material),, digestion, other chemical reaction, dilution, pH adjustment or other neutralization, other chemical addition, disinfection, thermal manipulation or conditioning (e.g., heating, cooling), mixing or other agitation and / or the like. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the volume of fluid to be tested entering the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 bypasses any treatment or modification such that a real “raw” volume of the fluid can be tested in a downstream testing module 160 of the system 100. In other arrangements, two or more different versions of the fluid to be tested are delivered to the modules 160 of the testing system. For instance, a pretreatment module or subsystem 200 can include a bypass that provides a true raw version of the fluid. The module 200 can also include two or more fluid outlets, each of which receives a version of the fluid to be tested that has undergone a unique treatment or modification regimen within the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 (e.g., relative to “modified” fluid passing through a separate treatment / modification scheme within the module 200, and accordingly, passing through a separate outlet of the module 200).

[0181] In the schematic of FIG. 3 A, the testing system 100 includes a header or main conduit or line 1 0 that delivers fluid to be tested to individual testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d, 160e ... 160n. As shown, individual fluid conduits, lines, fitting, valves, pumps, etc. help place the testing modules in fluid communication with (e.g., directly or indirectly) the common header, collection channel or member, reservoir, distribution member, manifold 150. In the illustrated arrangement, three of the testing modules (e.g., 160a, 160b, 160c) are fluidly coupled to the common header 150 using a parallel fluid flow orientation or pattern (e.g., allowing for simultaneous testing involving these modules), whereas two of the testing modules (e.g., 160d, 160e) include a series fluid flow orientation or pattern (e.g., not allowing for simultaneous testing involving these modules).Consumables Module

[0182] With continued reference to the schematics of FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3A and 3C, for example, the testing system 100 can comprise or can be configured to receive, couple to and operate with one or more consumables modules 300. As shown, the consumables module can be configured to deliver materials (e.g., one or more chemicals and / or other materials) to various portions or components of a system 100. For instance, such chemicals and / or other materials can be selectively delivered from the consumablesmodule or subsystem 300 to: the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 (e.g., via one or more conduits or fluid lines 304, CF1, 332, 342, 352), to fluid to be tested upstream of a common header 150 (e.g., directly or indirectly, prior to fluid entering any testing modules 160, via one or more conduits or fluid lines CF2), to one or more testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d ... 160n of the testing system 100 (e.g., via one or more conduits or fluid lines 306. CF3, CF4, etc.) and / or the like.

[0183] According to some embodiments, as schematically illustrated in FIGS.2 and 3, the consumables module or subsystem 300 is configured to fluidly connect the chemicals and / or other materials stored therein (e.g., chemicals and / or other materials intended to be selectively transferred from the module 300 to the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, one or more of the testing modules 160 of the testing system, etc.) to the system 100 via one or more connection devices, components and / or other connection technologies to one or more portions of the system 100, as desired or required. In some embodiments, for example, one or more quick-connect type couplings or other connectors / connections 310 can be used to secure the consumables module or subsystem 300 to the rest of the testing system 100. The use of such couplings or other connectors can facilitate the operation, maintenance and / or other aspects associated with the testing system 100. In some arrangements, the consumables module or subsystem 300 is configured to receive one or more material containers (e.g., bottles, canisters, cartridges, pouches, etc.). Such container can be rigid or semi-rigid, flexible and / or have any other desired or required configuration. They can include standard and / or customized containers, as desired or required by a particular application or use. As discussed in greater detail herein with reference to FIGS. 6 to 9, such containers C can be provided in various forms, shapes, sizes and / or the like. For example, the containers C can include bottles, canisters, cartridges, vials, pouches and / or the like. Such containers C can include standard (e.g., off-the-shelf designs and configurations). However, in some embodiments, containers C can be uniquely shaped, sized and / or otherwise configured for use with a consumables module or subsystem 300 and / or the overall testing system 100, as desired or required.

[0184] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a consumables module or subsystem 300 for an analyte testing system 100, such as any such systems 100 discussed herein and equivalents thereof. As shown, the consumables module or subsystem can be advantageously configured to receive one or more containers C containing a reagent, solution, fluid and / or other material to be delivered to one or moreportions of the system 100 during normal use, cleaning, maintenance and / or any other operative state of the system 100. As noted herein, such containers C can include, by way of example and without limitation, a bottle, canister, vial, cartridge, ampule, box, pouch, sac, bag, box and / or any other type of container. Such containers C can be manufactured or otherwise comprise any suitable material(s), including, for example, thermoplastic, glass, paper, metal and / or alloy, etc. The containers C can include a rigid or semi-rigid construction (e.g., such that they include a non-collapsible storage chamber or area), flexible construction (e g., such that they include at least a partially collapsible storage chamber or area) and / or the like. In some embodiments, the containers C include plastic bottles having a capacity of 100 to 500 ml (e.g., 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400. 450, 500 ml, 100 to 200, 200 to 300, 300 to 400, 400 to 500. 100 to 300, 300 to 500 ml, values and ranges between the foregoing, etc.). In other embodiment, the capacity of a container C secured to the consumables module or subsystem 300 can be greater than 500 ml (e.g., 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 ml, 1 liter, 500 to 600 ml, 600 to 700 ml, 700 to 800 ml, 800 to 900 ml, 900 ml to 1 liter, 1 to 1.5 liters, 1 to 2 liters, volumes or capacities between the foregoing values or ranges, etc.) or less than 100 ml, as desired or required. For example, as discussed herein with reference to FIG. 7, pouches having a storage capacity7of approximately 32 fluid ounces (approximately 950 ml) can be used as containers. However, the capacity, size, shape, configuration and / or any other aspect of the containers C can vary depending on the specific system configuration and / or application or use.

[0185] In some embodiments, the containers C maintain the contents contained therein (e.g., reagents, solutions and / or materials to be delivered to the pretreatment module, main testing modules, etc.) at least partially shielded or protected from ambient conditions. Accordingly, in some arrangements, the consumables module or subsystem 300, and thus the overall testing system 100, is / are configured to maintain one or more of the reagents, solutions, chemicals, formulations and / or the materials needed for operating a functional testing system 100 at least partially (e.g., partially, fully, substantially fully, etc.) sealed (or substantially sealed) or otherwise non-exposed to or protected from ambient air and ambient conditions.

[0186] Such features and other embodiments can provide one or more benefits and other advantages to the system and the related method of use. For example, at least partially sealing or otherwise shielding the contents of a container C can prevent or reduce the likelihood of cross-contamination of the stored reagent, solution or othermat erial (e.g., vis-a-vis other solution(s) being used during the operation of the consumables module 300 and the overall testing system 100), can prevent or reduce the likelihood of evaporation and / or other modification (e.g., chemical, biological, physical, combinations thereof, etc.) of the stored reagent, solution or other material thereby reducing waste and reducing operation costs, can facilitate maintaining a testing system 100 with sufficient chemicals, reagents, solutions and / or any other materials that are necessary for the normal operation of the system 100, can improve the accuracy of the testing resulting from the testing system 100 (e.g., by ensuring that any reagents, solutions or other materials used by the system to generate testing results are proper and consistent, and thus, maintaining the integrity of any pretreatment and / or testing procedures), can reduce the overall volume of waste generated by the testing system 100 and the related testing process (e.g., by requiring less volume of fluid to be tested, less volume of reagents, chemicals, solutions and / or other materials required to operate the system 100; can improve the simplicity and ease of use of the system 100 and / or can provide one or more other advantages and benefits.

[0187] The containers C can be off-the-shelf items, with standard dimensions, sizes, enclosures and / or other features. However, in other embodiments, one or more aspects of a container C can be customized, as desired or required. For example, the size, dimensions, shape, surface and / or interior features, cap or other enclosure, coupling, vent line or feature and / or other attachment features (e.g.. to provide fluidic attachment to an attachment site, coupling, conduit, valve and / or other fluidic member in order to place the interior contents of the container C in fluid communication with the desired destination for the corresponding contained reagent, solution or other material, such as, for example, the pretreatment module or subsystem 200, one or more testing modules 160, etc.) can be modified in accordance with corresponding features of the consumables module or subsystem 300 and / or any other portion of aspect of the treatment system 100. In some embodiments, one or more adapters or other intermediate members (not shown) can be used to facilitate the adaptability of a standard or off-the-shelf container (e.g., bottle, canister, etc.) for the consumables module or subsystem 300. Thus, in some embodiments, such adapters or other intermediate members are specifically designed and otherwise customized for the consumables module or subsystem 300 and / or the container C, as desired or required.

[0188] In some embodiments, one or more containers C with reagents, solutions, chemicals and / or other materials that are needed for the operation of the testingsystem 100 can be secured to one or more ports or other receiving members or features 324, as illustrated in FIG. 8. At least some or all of the containers C positioned in and / or on the consumables module or subsystem 300 can be secured (e.g., removably, fixedly, etc.) to one or more receiving ports, couplings and / or other features 324 of the module 300. Such ports or other features 324 can be releasable (e.g., using a male-female connectors or coupling, some type of quick-connect coupling or feature, etc.). This can allow a user to remove and replace empty containers with new ones and / or facilitate such procedures.

[0189] However, in other embodiments, once containers C are secured to the consumables module or subsystem 300, such containers C are not permitted to be removed (e.g., they are fixedly secured to a least a portion of the consumables module or subsystem 300). In such embodiments, the containers C are configured to be removed and discarded together with at least a portion of the consumables module or subsystem 300. For example, the consumables module or subsystem 300 can comprise a loading tray or other removable or movable member 303 that is configured to receive one or more containers C. In the arrangement schematically depicted in FIG. 6, such a removable / movable portion includes a slidable (or otherwise movable) tray or member 303 that can selectively move in one or more directions or manners (e.g., as represented by, for example, arrow M in FIG. 6). However, any other type of removable or movable portion can be used (e.g.. a cartridge with one or more flange, snap or other positive engagement features, a member having any other type of mechanical connection or feature, etc.).

[0190] Accordingly, in some embodiments, individual containers C of reagents, formulations, chemicals, solutions and / or other materials that will be utilized by the testing system 100 can be secured (e.g., removably, non-removably, temporarily, permanently, etc.) to a member or portion 303 that is movable or removable relative to other components, members and / or portion of the consumables module or subsystem 300. In such embodiments, the movable or removable member or portion 303 can be configured to be at least temporarily (e.g., replaceably) separated from the rest of the module 300 for discardment, replacement, refilling, cleaning, maintenance and / or the like. In some embodiments, the containers C are configured to secure to the consumables module or subsystem 300 without the need or inclusion of a separate movable or removable portion 303. In other arrangements, individual containers C cannot be removed, replaced and / or re-secured to the consumables module or subsystem 300. Thus,in such instances, the containers C can be discarded together with the entire consumables module or subsystem 300 or a portion of it (e.g., a removable or movable tray, cartridge or other component or member 303).

[0191] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the containers C can include flexible pouches C that contain one or more reagents, solutions, chemical and / or other materials to be used by the testing system 100 (e.g.. a pretreatment module or subsystem 200, one or more testing modules 160, etc.). Such pouches can include a flexible design that facilitates transportation, storage, sealing of internal contents, handling and use and / or any other aspects related to operating the consumables module or subsystem 300 and the overall testing system 100. As shown, a plurality of pouches C can be used at the same time (e.g., as an array or bundle) in a particular consumables module or subsystem 300. In some embodiments, the pouches C comprise or are configured to couple to a hydraulic or fluidic network or system 305 that permits the internal contents of the pouches C to be placed in fluid communication with other modules, devices, systems, subsystems, components and / or portions of a testing system 100 (e.g., a pretreatment module or subsystem 200, one or more testing modules 160, etc.). As depicted in FIG. 7, the hydraulic network or system 305 can include one or more conduits or other fluid lines L, fittings, valves V, pumps, couplings and / or the like. In some arrangements, an end (or other portion) of the container C and its associated fluidic network or system 305 can be configured to couple to the consumables module or subsystem 300 and / or any other portion of the testing system 100. As discussed herein in connection with other container embodiments, the pouches C can be secured to the consumables module or subsystem 300 (e.g., directly or indirectly, in a movable or removable tray, cartridge or other component or member of the consumables module or subsystem 300, etc.) using a standard or nonstandard coupling or connection devices, system, method or technology (e.g., a threaded connection, a quick-connection coupling, any other mechanical connection, etc.), as desired or required.

[0192] FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a portion of a consumables module or subsystem 300 that is configured to receive a plurality of containers C (e.g., bottles, canisters, pouches, etc ). As shown, the consumables module or subsystem 300 can include different regions or portions 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d where bottles, canisters or other containers C can be secured (e.g., removably, non-removably, etc.). In some embodiments, each region or portion 320a, 320b. 320c, 320d is dedicated to a particular reagent, solution, chemical or other materials. For example, container receiving region orportion 320a can be adapted to receive containers related to operation of a pretreatment module or subsystem 200. As discussed herein, such a module 200 can require one or more reagents, solutions, chemicals and / or materials delivered to it during use, such as, for example and without limitation, an oxidizing agent, one or more materials for changing the pH of the fluid sample to be tested (e.g., a base, an acid), water or other dilution fluid, a cleaning solution and / or the like. Such reagents, solutions and / or other materials can be included in bottles, canisters and / or other containers C that are configured to be secured to specific (e.g., designated or dedicated) subsections or subportions 322 of the corresponding receiving area 320a.

[0193] With continued reference to FIG. 8, a port or other receiving area or portion 324 of the consumables module or subsystem 300 can be configured to receive, secure and be placed in fluid communication with the internal contents (e.g., a stored reagent, solution, chemical, other material, etc.) of a bottle, canister, pouch, other type of container C and / or a component or ancillary portion thereof (e.g., the fluid or hydraulic network or system 305 associated with the pouches C illustrated in FIG. 7) once such a container C has been properly positioned relative to the port or receiving area 324. In some embodiments, one or more positive engagement members or features are used to confirm proper securement of the container C to the module 300, such as, for example and without limitation, a lock or locking mechanism, an audible or haptic confirmation (e.g., a click or other positive engagement feature or response) and / or the like.

[0194] With continued reference to FIG. 8, the consumables module or subsystem 300 can include or can be placed in fluid communication with one or more pumps or other fluid transfer devices 326 (e.g., peristaltic pumps, metering pumps, other positive displacement pumps, suction or vacuum pumps, etc.) to help deliver a desired volume from the consumables module or subsystem 300 to a target destination (e.g., one or more modules or portions of a pretreatment module or subsystem 200, one or more testing modules, any other component or portion of the testing system 100, etc.). Such pumps or other fluid transfer devices can be included in a portion or component 328 of the consumables module or subsystem 300 that is reusable (e.g., while one or more other portions of the module or subsystem 300 are disposable, such as, for example, the containers C themselves, any cartridge or receiving area 320 that is configured to receive containers, etc.), as desired or required.

[0195] As illustrated in FIG. 8 and discussed in greater detail herein, a container C (e.g., a bottle, canister, pouch, etc.) can include a head or other portion H thatis configured to facilitate connecting and / or disconnecting (e.g., mechanical, other physical securement. fluidic connection, etc.) the container C relative to the consumables module or subsystem 300. For example, the head or other securement portion H of the container C can include outputs, inlets, vents, couplings, passages or conduits, protrusions, stems and / or the like. As also illustrated in FIG. 8, the consumables module or subsystem 300 (or a portion thereof) can include one or more couplings (e.g.. quickconnect couplings) 310a, 310b, 310c, 310d to facilitate placing the consumables module or subsystem 300, and the containers C positioned therein, to the rest of the testing system (e.g., pretreatment module or subsystem 200, one or more testing modules 160, etc.). Various embodiments of couplings 310 that can be used are illustrated in FIG. 9, by way of example and without limitation. As shown, a coupling 310 can have one or more protruding members (e.g., with one or more lumens) and / or other openings 312 to facilitate fluidly connecting the consumables module or subsystem 300 (or at least a portion thereof) with the rest of the testing system 100. One or more additional coupling features or members (e.g.. supplemental coupling features or members) 314 can also be included, such as, for example, a threaded or another type of mechanical connection.

[0196] In some embodiments, one or more mechanical and / or other attachment features 303 can be included in the consumables module or subsystem 300 and / or other components or portions of the testing system 100 to help secure the consumables module or subsystem 300 in a desired location (e.g.. along a housing or other enclosure of the system 100), as desired or required.

[0197] In some embodiments, each container C (e.g., bottle, canister, pouch, etc.) secured to the consumables module or subsystem 300 can include its own fluidly or hydraulically distinct and separate conduit or line that connects the internal contents of that container C with a specific location within the testing system (e.g., a testing module 160, a module or subsystem of a pretreatment module 200, etc.). This can advantageously help prevent or reduce the likelihood of cross-contamination of reagents, solutions and / or other materials.

[0198] In some embodiments, the consumables module or subsystem 300 comprises one or more sensors or similar technologies to measure or approximate the amount of reagent, solution and / or other material remaining in one or more of the containers C secured to the module 300. Such sensor technologies can include, but are not limited to. optical sensing. However, other types of sensing can also be used, including for example, weight sensors, approximation of reagent and / or other materialsremaining based on use of a particular reagent in prior procedures and / or the like. Thus, in some embodiments, the system is configured to track and process data regarding the volume of reagents or other stored materials transferred from the consumables module. This can be accomplished, at least in part, using flow metering, operational data related to the pumps or other fluid transfer devices and / or the like. According to certain arrangements, in addition to or in lieu of the use of pumping precision, the use of load cells can be used for measuring (or estimating) the volumes of consumables spent. In some embodiments, level sensing and / or approximation is / are queried automatically by the system 100 to ensure that sufficient volumes of required reagents and / or other solutions or materials are present in the module 300. In some embodiments, the system is configured to provide one or more alerts, warning, alarms and / or other communications related to the sensing (e.g., to alert a user to refill / replace a container, to otherwise service the consumables module 300 and / or any other portion of the testing system, etc.).Fluid Testing Modules

[0199] As noted herein, the testing system 100 can be supplied with one or more testing modules 160, in accordance with the desired set of parameters for which a water or other fluid sample should be tested. The system 100 can advantageously comprise certain modularity features in accordance with one or more of the embodiments discussed herein. In some embodiments, a testing system can be customized to include one or more modules 160 to test for a variety of analytes and / or other physical, chemical and / or biological parameters. For such circumstances, it may be necessary to provide two, three or more different modules to enable the testing system 100 to perform the necessary or desired testing.

[0200] In some embodiments, a testing module 160a of a testing system 100 can be configured to detect, measure, approximate and / or otherwise evaluate or assess of one or more analytes, parameter (e.g., physical, chemical, biological, biochemical, combinations thereof, etc.) and / or other properties of a water or other fluid sample being tested by the system. Such parameters can include a concentration, an index or some other quantitative or qualitative value or output. In some embodiments, the module 160a can determine or approximate whether a contaminant or other substance is present in the sample, a concentration or other quantitative value associated with a particular substance and / or the like.

[0201] According to some arrangements, the testing module 160a schematically illustrated in FIG. 10 is configured to detect (e.g., measure, approximate,etc.) a concentration, parameter and / or other property' of one or more metals (e.g., lead, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, mercury, nickel, selenium, zinc, other heavy metals, other metals, non-metals, etc.).

[0202] In some embodiments, the testing module 1 0a is configured to detect (e.g., measure, approximate, monitor, etc.) the presence and / or concentration of a broad spectrum of metals commonly regulated and / or of concern with respect to water quality. Such metals may include, for example and without limitation or restriction, lead (Pb), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), mercury (Hg), nickel (Ni), selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), silver (Ag), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), aluminum (Al), barium (Ba), uranium (U) and / or the like. These metals are cited by various regulatory agencies (e.g., the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EP A), the World Health Organization (WHO), or equivalent national and international standards bodies) as posing potential health or environmental hazards to human and / or animal lives.

[0203] As regulations evolve or new contaminants are identified, the testing module 160a can be configured to be upgraded and / or otherwise modified (e.g., through software patches, firmware updates, hardware enhancements, other addons, etc.) to expand detection capabilities for additional metals, semi-metals, emerging contaminants and / or any other compounds / mat erials of interest.

[0204] In the depicted embodiment, the testing module 160a includes adding one or more reagents, solutions and / or other materials to the sample being tested and using one more sensors to detect certain concentrations and / or other parameters.

[0205] With continued reference to the testing module 160a schematically illustrated in FIG. 10, a water or other fluid sample can be delivered to a chamber, reservoir or other containment portion, area or region 540 of the testing module 160a. As shown and as discussed in connection with other embodiments herein, the water or other fluid to be tested can be provided to the testing module 160a via a fluid or hydraulic network of the system 100, which can include one or more conduits 152a, 150, 112, valves V, pumps or other fluid transfer device (not shown in FIG. 10) and / or any other component, device, system, etc. As with any other testing module disclosed herein or equivalents thereof, as discussed herein, the testing module 160a can be operated as a batch system (e.g., where a particular volume (e.g., a predetermined or finite volume) of fluid to be tested is initially delivered to the module 160a. Alternatively, the module 160a can be configured to operate on a continuous flow basis, wherein water or other fluid to be tested is delivered continuously or substantially continuously into and out of thetesting module 160a. Such a modification in the mode or manner of operation of the testing module can be applied to one, more or all of the testing modules 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d ... 160n included in a testing system 100, as desired or required by a particular application or use.

[0206] With continued reference to FIG. 10, once and / or while a desired volume of fluid to be tested has been delivered / is being delivered to the testing chamber or reservoir 540 of the testing module 160a, one or more reagents, chemicals, solutions and / or other materials can be delivered to the same chamber or reservoir 540 from a source (e.g., a container C positioned within a consumables module or subsystem 300) via one or more conduits or other fluid lines 306. As discussed herein with reference to consumables module embodiments, the reagent(s), solution(s) and / or other material(s) being transferred from one or more sources to the chamber or reservoir 540 of the testing module 160a can be provided in dedicated or isolated, individual conduits or other lines. As noted, this can help prevent or reduce the likelihood of cross-contamination between different reagents and / or other fluids stored and / or being transferred within a system 100, can help prevent or reduce the likelihood of degradation and / or can provide one or more other benefits or advantages.

[0207] In FIG. 10, the conduit(s) 306 through which reagents, solutions and / or other materials are selectively transferred to the chamber or reservoir 540 of the module 160a can comprise a terminal head or other dispenser 307 (e.g., along its distal or downstream end). Such a dispenser 307 can be situated in a manner that facilitates delivery of the desired reagents, solutions and / or other materials in the chamber or reservoir. As shown, the testing module 160a can include a mixer (e.g., stirrer, impeller, etc.) 544 and / or a thermal conditioning device or member (e.g., heater, cooling device, etc.) 548. Such components and other features can assist with creating an enhanced (e.g., ideal, conducive, improved, etc.) environment for the testing of the fluid sample within contained within the chamber or reservoir 540 of the module 160a. For example, the mixing and / or heating (or other thermal modification of the fluid), the reagent(s) can be more evenly distributed within the fluid sample being tested. Similarly, the mixing and possible added heat can help dissolve any solids and / or other non-liquids that may be delivered to the chamber or reservoir 540. Further, the mixing can help keep the fluid sample itself well-mixed, especially in situations where the fluid contains a relatively high amount of solids. In some embodiments, this can assist with obtaining more accurate measurement using the testing probe 510.

[0208] With continued reference to FIG. 10, the testing module 160a can comprise an electrode assembly 510 having one or more probes and corresponding electrodes. Details regarding such probes, electrodes and the like are provided herein in connection, for example, with FIGS. 11A and 1 IB. As shown in FIGS. 11 A and 1 IB, the electrode assembly 510 can include a main portion 512 that is configured to house and support one or more electrode probes 520. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11 A, the probes extend outwardly (e.g., distally) along a distal end of the main portion 512. However, in other arrangements, the probes, and thus the electrodes 526 positioned thereon, can include a different design, orientation, location, directional positioning, length, width, gauge, diameter or other cross-section dimension, other dimension(s), spacing (e.g.. spacing or clearance with adjacent probe(s) and / or electrode(s), etc.) and / or the like.

[0209] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11 A, the electrode assembly 510 comprises a total of three probes 520. However, an electrode assembly 510 can include fewer (e.g.. 1 or 2) or more (e.g., 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. 10. more than 10, etc.) probes, as desired or required. In some embodiments, the number of probes 520 that are included in a particular assembly 510 depends, at least in part, on which analytes (e.g., heavy metal concentrations) will be analyzed by the module 160a. As illustrated in FIG. 11B, the probe 520 can include an inner or interior conductive member (e.g., an electrically conductive wire) 522 and an outer or exterior sheath or covering 524 that at least partially shields (e.g., physically, electrically, etc.) the inner member 522. The probe 520 can include one or more electrodes or electrical contacts 526 along the length of the probe 520 (e.g., at, along or near the distal end of the probe, as shown in FIG. 1 IB).

[0210] In some embodiments, the electrode or electrical contact(s) is / are formed, at least in part, by exposing a desired portion of the inner electrically conductive member (e.g., wire). This can be done, for example and without limitation, by removing a length or section of the outer sheath or covering 524. Further, as illustrated in FIG.11B, the probe can include one or more other components, features and / or member. For example, the probe 520 can include one or more O-rings and / or other sealing members 528 along one or more portions of the probe. This can help prevent or reduce the likelihood of undesirable and potentially damaging ingress, entry and / or other exposure of fluid from the end of the electrode assembly 510 that includes the probes 520.

[0211] The electrode assembly 510 can also include one or more cables, wires and / or other physical connectors 516 that electrically couple or otherwise connect theassembly 510 with other portions of the testing module 160a (e.g., a processor of the testing module), other modules, components and / or portions testing system (e.g., a main system processor, one or more processors and / or other electrical components of the testing system, etc.) and / or the like. Such a cable 516 can advantageously supply the necessary power, data and / or connections to the electrode assembly 510.

[0212] As shown in FIG. 10. the testing module 160a can include one or more processors or control units 530. Such a processor or control unit 530 can be configured to provide electrical power to the electrode assembly 510, can receive data and / or other measurements obtained by the electrode assembly 510, can process and / or communicate collected data and / or other measurements and / or take any other action that is desired or required. In some arrangements, the processor or control unit 530 comprises one or more potentiostat or similar instrument.

[0213] For any of the testing modules described herein, or equivalents and variants thereof, a desired level of testing redundancy or repeatability may be desired or required (e.g., for internal quality assurance or quality control purposes, as required by regulatory or other private or public entities, etc.). For instance, the need or desire may exist to have a particular analyte, parameter or other measurement or approximation repeated or performed at least twice. For such circumstances, one solution involves using two or more identical testing modules 160, 160a. As illustrated schematically in FIG. 10, for instance, a volume of fluid can be delivered to two identical testing modules 160a. In the depicted embodiment, each testing module 160a includes the identical, substantially identical or mostly similar components, devices, systems, components and / or the like. However, in other embodiments, different testing modules 160 can be used to test for the same analyte and / or other property or parameter. In other arrangements, one or more components, devices, systems, subsystems, features and / or other portions or members of a first testing module is / are also used by (e.g., commonly used by or with) a second testing module. Although the concepts related to repeatability or redundancy have been discussed herein with specific reference to the embodiment of FIG. 10. such concepts can be applied to any of the testing modules 160, 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d, 160e ... 160n described herein or equivalents or variants thereof, or any testing system. Multiple testing of a fluid sample can be done in parallel or in series, as desired or required.

[0214] FIG. 12 schematically illustrates one embodiment of a testing module 160b of a testing system 100. Such a testing module 160b is a simplified version of the module 160a illustrated in FIG. 10 and discussed herein. For example, in FIG. 12, thefluid sample is tested using one or more probes 622 that are configured to extend into a volume of fluid delivered to a chamber or reservoir 610 of the module 160b. However, unlike the module of FIG. 10, this testing module 160b does not include and / or require any chemical addition and / or thermal modification of the sample. As shown, a volume of water or other fluid can enter the chamber or reservoir 610 using one or more inlets 610. The volume of fluid to be tested can be delivered from a branch 152b of a fluid manifold 150 of the testing system 100, thereby advantageously allowing for parallel testing of analytes, as discussed in greater detail herein. In other embodiments, however, this module 160b can be connected to one or more other testing modules 160a, 160c, 160d, 160 of the system in a series orientation or configuration.

[0215] In some embodiments, the testing module 160b of FIG. 12 can be configured to measure or otherwise test for one or more of the following in the fluid sample delivered to it: pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), electrical conductivity (EC) and / or the like. The testing module 160b can include an electrode assembly 620 having one or more electrode probes 622a, 622b, 622c, 622d, 622e. Although the illustrated arrangement includes a total of five probes, additional or fewer probes can be included, as desired or required by a particular application or use. The probe assembly 620 can be customized with a combination probes corresponding with the parameters to be tested (e.g., pH, DO, temperature, etc.). In some embodiments, the water or other fluid to be tested entering the testing module 160b can be a raw fluid sample (e g., one that has not been modified in any way before entering the module 1 0b). For example, the fluid sample entering this testing module 160b can be conveyed directly from the raw sample or through a bypass line 214 of the pretreatment module or subsystem 200 (see, e.g., the schematic of FIG. 4 and the related discussion).

[0216] For any of the testing modules described herein, including for example and without limitation, the testing modules 160a, 160b comprising electrode / probe assemblies 510, 620, the corresponding testing module 160. 160a, 160b, 160c, 160d, 160e ... 160n can be configured to periodically clean the electrodes, probes and / or other components that may contact fluid samples to be tested, reagents or other solutions used in the course of testing for certain analytes and other parameter and / or the like. Thus, any one of the testing modules 160a, 160b, 160 can be configured to deliver one or more cleaning solutions (e.g.. water, cleaning agent, etc.) to the electrodes and / or probes to clean such portions. This can help ensure that accurate measurements are being taken bythe modules. It can also provide additional advantages and / or benefits, such as preventing or reducing the likelihood of conditions that may damage the probes, electrodes and / or other detections components or devices (e.g., irreversibly damage, damage in a manner that requires prolonged maintenance and cleaning, etc.) and / or the like.

[0217] In one embodiment, by way of example, water or other cleaning fluid can be delivered to the interior of the chamber or reservoir 610 of the testing module 160b of FIG. 12. This can be accomplished while the module is not being used for testing. One or more fluid conduits, valves V, pumps or other fluid transfer devices P, fittings and / or other hydraulic or fluidic features or components can be included in the testing module 160b, 160 to permit for water and / or other cleaning agents to be directed to the necessary locations and / or portions of the module 160b to accomplish the desired cleaning or other maintenance. For instance, water and / or other cleaning agents can be delivered to the chamber or reservoir 610 via the outlet or line 640 that is normally used for draining or otherwise removing the tested volume of fluid from the chamber 610. Thus, in some arrangements, water and / or other cleaning materials can be transferred (e.g., via one or more pumps P) to the chamber or reservoir 610 of the testing module 610a in order to flush, rinse and / or otherwise clean or treat the probes 622a, 622b, 622c, 622d. 622e. In some embodiments, such cleaning includes retaining the water and / or other cleaning agent(s) within the chamber or reservoir 610 for a minimum amount of time to help ensure that the desired cleaning of the electrodes, probes and / or other equipment is adequately or satisfactorily accomplished.

[0218] In some embodiments, the testing module 160b of FIG. 12 can include one or more devices, components or features 618 that cause a desired level of mixing, agitation, vibration to the fluid sample delivered to the chamber or reservoir 610 for testing by the probe assembly 620. For example, the module 160b can include one or more vibration motors or other vibratory devices or components 618. In some embodiments, vibration and / or other movement can help with the measurement of one or more analytes, parameters or other properties. For instance, the introduction of vibration to the sample can improve the accuracy and / or other aspects of dissolved oxygen (DO) detection by the corresponding probe 622. Such a vibratory7motor or other member can be incorporated into any of the testing modules and / or other modules, subsystems and / or components of the testing system, as desired or required.

[0219] FIG. 13 schematically illustrates another embodiment of a testingmodule 160c for use in a testing system 100. As with the embodiment of FIG. 10, the depicted module 160c is configured to receive one or more reagents, chemicals, solutions and / or other materials (e.g., through one more conduits or other lines 306 that are in fluid communication with the reagent source). Such reagents and / or other materials can be transferred to one or more testing chambers or reservoirs 710 of the module 1 0c from corresponding container(s) C positioned in a consumables module or subsystem 300, as discussed herein.

[0220] With continued reference to the embodiment schematically illustrated in FIG. 13, the testing module 160c can be configured to provide mixing (e.g., using a stir plate 714, an impeller, a vibration motor or other member, another agitation or mixing member, etc.) to the water or other fluid to be tested. Further, a desired or required amount of thermal modification (e.g., heating, cooling) can be performed to the sample and / or the reagents and / or other materials delivered tot eh testing module 160c. As discussed, such features can be used to improve and otherwise enhance the testing performed by the testing module 160c. Also, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the chamber or reservoir 710 of the testing module 160c can include one or more probes, sensors and / or similar devices 720, as desired or required.

[0221] In some embodiments, the testing module 1 0c can include a separate reactor or member 740 that is configured to receive a volume of the fluid to be tested for further analysis. For instance, a volume of the water or other fluid sample to be tested can be transferred from a first chamber, reservoir or containment area or portion 710 of the module 1 0c to a second device, system, subsystem or member 740. The fluid sample can be delivered to the second device or member in the form that it entered the testing module (e.g.. prior to any chemical addition, thermal modification, etc.) and / or after such modification has occurred (e.g., partially or completely). The second device, system or member 740 can be configured to perform additional testing on the fluid sample, such as for example and without limitation, spectrophotometry, spectroscopy, other optics-based technologies and / or the like. Such technologies can help detect one or more analytes in the fluid sample, including, for example and without limitation, turbidity, color and / or the like. In some embodiments, the device, system or member 740 comprises a spectrophotometric device (e.g., an advanced spectrophotometric device) or similar device, system or component to conduct the desired or required testing of the fluid sample.

[0222] According to some embodiments, a device, system or member 740(e.g., an advanced spectrophotometric device) is configured to measure a broad spectrum of analytes, including but not limited to, heavy metals, anions, nutrients, organic compounds and / or the like. Such analytes can be tested in accordance with governmental, international and / or other applicable standards (e.g., the Environmental Protection Agency (EP A), the World Health Organization (WHO), or equivalent bodies).

[0223] In some embodiments, by way of example, analyzing absorption or emission spectra across multiple wavelengths, the module 740 may detect various water constituents of interest, whether for health-based regulation or process optimization / improvement in industrial, agricultural, municipal and / or other applications or uses. In some embodiments, the module 740 may be adapted or upgraded (e.g., via hardware or software modifications) to address emerging contaminants, evolving standards, or unique operational requirements in various water, fluid quality monitoring contexts and / or any other concern or consideration.

[0224] As discussed herein in connection with another testing module, the module 160c illustrated in FIG. 13 includes a duplicate (e.g., identical or similar or substantially identical or similar, duplicate, etc.) of at least one component 740. For example, the depicted testing module 160c comprises a duplicate secondary device, system, subsystem or member 740.

[0225] For any of the embodiments disclosed herein or equivalents or variants thereof, the various procedures and steps performed by the modules, devices, systems, subsystems and / or other components or portions can be performed remotely and autonomously by the system 100. In some embodiments, the method is performed completely remotely and autonomously without any user intervention during the method. The system 100 may optionally perform data analytics on the result of the testing. For example, using artificial intelligence and / or machine learning, the system 100 can adjust testing frequency and / or any other operational parameters (e.g., greater or lesser volume of reagents added or aliquots, adjustment of the sample size, possible dilution of the sample, etc.). As part of quality control, the device may perform periodic quality checks, for example including an initial and / or subsequent demonstration of capability and ongoing demonstration of capability.

[0226] As noted herein, the various processes, steps and / or actions in connection with the testing systems described herein can be fully automated. In other words, fluid samples to be tested can be automatically obtained by the system and delivered through the various pretreatment and testing without the need for humanintervention. This can include transferring the fluid to the interior of the testing system and through the various steps or stages (e.g., pretreatment, testing, etc.). The system can also automatically provide any reagents, chemicals and / or other materials (e.g., dilution water, backwashing fluids, etc.) through the system using an automated scheme without the need for human intervention. However, one or more steps can be designed to be conducted or facilitated (e.g., optionally, at a user’s discretion, etc.) by a human or other user, as desired or required. Such optional features and configurations apply to any of the systems disclosed herein or equivalents thereof.

[0227] The foregoing description and examples have been set forth to illustrate the disclosure and are not intended as being limiting. Each of the disclosed aspects and examples of the present disclosure may be considered individually or in combination with other aspects, examples, and variations of the disclosure. In addition, unless otherwise specified, none of the steps of the methods of the present disclosure are confined to any particular order of performance. Modifications of the disclosed examples incorporating the spirit and substance of the disclosure may occur to persons skilled in the art and such modifications are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0228] While the methods and systems described herein may comprise various modifications and alternative forms, specific examples thereof have been shown in the drawings and are herein described in detail herein. It should be understood, however, that the inventions are not to be limited to the particular forms or methods disclosed, but modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the various examples described and the appended claims. Any methods and / or processes (e.g., of a treatment and / or testing protocol) disclosed herein need not be performed in the order recited. Depending on the example, one or more acts, events and / or functions of any of the algorithms, methods and / or processes described herein can be performed in a different sequence, can be added, merged, or left out altogether (e.g., not all described acts or events are necessary7for the practice of the method, process and / or algorithm). In some examples, steps, acts or events can be performed concurrently, e.g., through parallel processing or treatment schemes, multi -threaded processing, interrupt processing, or multiple processors or processor cores or on other parallel architectures, rather than sequentially. Further, no element, feature, block, process or step, or group of elements, features, blocks, processes or steps, are necessary7or indispensable to each example. Additionally, all possible combinations, subcombinations, and rearrangements of systems, methods, processes, features, elements, modules, blocks, boxes, and so forth are withinthe scope of this disclosure. The use of sequential, or time-ordered language, such as “then,” “next,” “after,” “subsequently,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to facilitate the flow of the text and is not intended to limit the sequence of operations performed. Thus, some examples may be performed using the sequence of operations described herein, while other examples may be performed following a different sequence of operations. Disclosure of systems and methods that comprise components and / or steps also provides support for such systems and methods to “consist of” or “consist essentially of’ those components and / or steps, when the latter phrases are used in the claims. As an example, disclosure herein of testing system that comprises a, b and c may include additional features and / or may consist or consist essentially of only a, b. and c.

[0229] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, processes, methods and / or algorithms described in connection with the examples disclosed herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software and / or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability’ of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, operations and / or steps have been described above generally’ in terms of their functionality’. In some implementations, the modules are modules for processing data, wherein the module is stored in a memory'. The module may comprise software in the form of an algorithm or machine-readable instructions. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. The described functionality’ can be implemented in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the disclosure.

[0230] The various illustrative logical blocks and modules described in connection with the examples disclosed herein can be implemented or performed by a machine, such as a general purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor can be (or include) a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor can be (or include) a controller, microcontroller, or state machine, combinations of the same and / or the like. A processor can also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and amicroprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

[0231] The blocks, operations, or steps of a method, process, or algorithm described in connection with the examples disclosed herein can be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two. A software module can reside in RAM memory’, flash memory’, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, a removable disk, an optical drsc (e.g., CD-ROM or DVD), or any other form of volatile or non-volatile computer-readable storage medium known in the art. A storage medium can be coupled to the processor such that the processor can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium can be integral to the processor. The processor and the storage medium can reside in an ASIC. The ASIC can reside in a user terminal. In the alternative, the processor and the storage medium can reside as discrete components in a user terminal.

[0232] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, "can." “might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that some examples include, while other examples do not include, certain features, elements, and / or states. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, blocks, and / or states are in any way required for one or more examples or that one or more examples necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether these features, elements and / or states are included or are to be performed in any particular example.

[0233] The methods disclosed herein may include certain actions taken by a practitioner; however, the methods can also include any third-party instruction of those actions, either expressly or by' implication. For example, actions such as “measuring pH” include “instructing measuring of pH.”

[0234] The ranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all overlap, subranges, and combinations thereof. Language such as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” “between,” and the like includes the number recited. Numbers preceded by a term such as “about” or “approximately” include the recited numbers and should be interpreted based on the circumstances (e.g., as accurate as reasonably possible under the circumstances, for example ±5%, ±10%, ±15%, etc.). For example, “about 100 pL” should include “100 pL.” Phrases preceded by a term such as “substantially” include therecited phrase and should be interpreted based on the circumstances (e.g., as much as reasonably possible under the circumstances). For example, “substantially homogenous” includes “homogenous.” Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are at standard conditions including temperature and pressure. The phrase “at least one of’ is intended to require at least one item from the subsequent listing, not one type of each item from each item in the subsequent listing. For example, “at least one of A. B, and C” can include A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A, B. and C.

Claims

1. WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An automated system for analyzing a fluid to be tested, the system comprising:an automated pretreatment module for receiving and treating a raw fluid sample;wherein the automated pretreatment module modifies a solids content of the raw fluid sample;wherein the automated pretreatment module is further configured to perform a digestion or other physical, chemical and / or biological modification of the raw fluid sample;at least one fluid distribution member that receives at least a portion of treated fluid exiting the automated pretreatment module;a first automated testing module receiving a first volume of treated fluid from the at least one fluid distribution member, the first testing module configured to analyze the first volume of treated fluid for a first analyte or parameter;a second automated testing module receiving a second volume of treated fluid from the at least one fluid distribution member, the second testing module configured to analyze the second volume of treated fluid for a second analyte or parameter;wherein the first analyte or parameter is different that the second analyte or parameter; andan electronics box in communication with the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module to automatically analyze and determine a quantitative value associated with the first analyte or parameter and the second analyte or parameter.

2. The system of Claim 1, wherein the automated pretreatment module modifies the solids contact of the raw fluid sample using at least one of the following: sand or other media filtration, membrane filtration and another solids separation technology.

3. The system of Claim 1, wherein the automated pretreatment module is configured to modify at least one additional aspect of the raw fluid sample, wherein the at least one additional aspect comprises one or more of the following: a pH of the raw fluid sample, a disinfection of the raw fluid sample, and a dilution of the raw fluid sample.

4. The system of Claim 1, further comprising a consumables module orsubsystem for receiving a plurality' of containers that contain at least one reagent and / or other material.

5. The system of Claim 4, wherein the consumables module or subsystem is configured to deliver the at least one reagent and / or other material to the automated pretreatment module to facilitate treating the raw fluid sample.

6. The system of Claim 4, wherein the consumables module or subsystem is configured to deliver the at least one reagent and / or other material to at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module.

7. An automated system for analyzing a fluid to be tested, the system comprising:an automated pretreatment module configured to receive a raw fluid sample and to modify at least one aspect of at least a portion of the raw fluid sample;at least one fluid distribution member configured to receive fluid exiting the pretreatment module;a first automated testing module in fluid communication with the at least one fluid distribution member, the first testing module configured to receive a volume of fluid from the at least one fluid distribution member and analyze said volume of fluid for a first analyte or parameter;a second automated testing module in fluid communication with the at least one fluid distribution member, the second testing module configured to receive a volume of fluid from the at least one fluid distribution member and analyze said volume of fluid for a second analyte or parameter; andan electronics box in communication with the first automated testing module and the automated second testing module to automatically analyze and determine a quantitative value associated with the first analyte or parameter and the second analyte or parameter.

8. The system of Claim 7,wherein the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified by the automated pretreatment module comprises a solids content of the raw fluid sample;wherein the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified by the automated pretreatment module comprises a digestion and / or other physical, chemical and / or biological modification of the raw fluid sample; and wherein at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module comprises a transfer of at least one reagent and / or other material to the first testing module and / or the second testing module.

9. The system of Claim 7, wherein the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified by the automated pretreatment module comprises a solids content of the raw fluid sample.

10. The system of Claim 7, wherein the solid contents of the raw fluid sample is modified by the automated pretreatment module using filtration (e.g., membrane filtration, media filtration, multi-stage media filtration, other filtration or solids separation technology, etc.).

11. The system of Claim 7, wherein the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified by the automated pretreatment module comprises a digestion and / or other physical, chemical and / or biological modification of the raw fluid sample.

12. The system of Claim 7, wherein at least one oxidizing agent and / or other chemical is configured to be delivered to the automated pretreatment module to assist digestion and / or other modification of the raw fluid sample.

13. The system of Claim 7, wherein the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified by the automated pretreatment module comprises a pH (e.g., using chemical addition to the raw fluid sample).

14. The system of Claim 7, wherein the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified by the automated pretreatment module comprises a concentration of the raw fluid sample.

15. The system of Claim 14, wherein the concentration of the raw fluid sample is adjusted by adding a volume of a dilution fluid to the raw fluid sample.

16. The system of Claim 7, wherein the at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample that is modified by the automated pretreatment module comprises at least a partial breakdown, conversion or transformation of a component (e.g., organic matter) of the raw fluid sample.

17. The system of Claim 16, wherein the at least a partial breakdown, conversion or transformation of a component of the raw fluid sample is performed by the automated pretreatment module using the administration of light or energy to the raw fluid sample.

18. The system of Claim 17, wherein the administration of light or energy comprises the administration of ultraviolet (UV) light, other light, microwave energy, other energy, heat, etc. to the raw fluid sample.

19. The system of Claim 7, further comprising a consumables module or subsystem for receiving a plurality of containers that contain at least one reagent and / or other material.

20. The system of Claim 19, wherein the consumables module or subsystem is configured to deliver the at least one reagent and / or other material to at least one of the following: the automated pretreatment module to facilitate treating the raw fluid sample, the first automated testing module, and the second automated testing module.

21. A system according to any one of Claims 7 to 20, wherein the first analyte or parameter is different than the second analyte or parameter.

22. A system according to any one of Claims 7 to 20, wherein the first analyte or parameter is the same as the second analyte or parameter.

23. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the automated pretreatment module is configured to not modify a bypass volume of the raw fluid sample, such that said bypass volume is configured to exit the automated pretreatment module without modification by the automated pretreatment module.

24. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first or second analyte or parameter comprises a concentration or other quantitative value of at least one heavy metal or another metal (e.g., lead, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, mercury, nickel, selenium, zinc, other heavy metals, other metals, etc.).

25. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first or second analyte or parameter comprises detection of at least one of the following: pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature, oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), and electrical conductivity (EC).

26. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module comprises an electrical sensing probe.

27. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein testing of the fluid to be tested within the first and second automated testing modules is performed, at least in part, in parallel and / or simultaneously.

28. The system of Claim 1 or 7, wherein at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module comprises a transfer of at least one reagent and / or other material to the first automated testing module and / or the second automated testing module.

29. The system of Claim 28, wherein the transfer of the at least one reagent and / or other material to the first and / or the second automated testing module originates from a consumables module or subsystem.

30. The system of Claim 29, wherein the consumables module or subsystem is configured to receive a plurality of fluid containers that contain the at least one reagent and / or other material.

31. The system of Claim 29, wherein a volume of the at least one reagent and / or other material is configured to be transferred from the consumables module or subsystem to the first automated testing module and / or the second automated testing module using independent, fluidly isolated conduits or lines.

32. A system according to any one of Claims 28 to 31, wherein the system comprises and is operatively coupled to the consumables module or subsystem.

33. The system of Claim 32, wherein the consumables module or subsystem comprises at least one coupling to facilitate placing internal contents of containers positioned in the consumables module or subsystem in fluid communication with the first automated testing module and / or the second automated testing module.

34. A system according to any one of Claims 28 to 33, wherein the consumables module or subsystem is configured to receive at least one of the following: a bottle, a canister, a cartridge, a pouch and another type of container.

35. A system according to any one of Claims 28 to 34, wherein the consumables module or subsystem is configured to detect a level of containers secured thereto.

36. The system of Claim 35, wherein the consumables module or subsystem is configured to detect the level using at least one optical sensor.

37. A system according to any one of Claims 28 to 36, wherein the consumables module or subsystem is configured to deliver at least one reagent, solution or other material to the automated pretreatment module.

38. The system of Claim 37, wherein the at least one reagent, solution or other materials is configured to be added to the raw fluid sample entering the automated pretreatment module to modify at least one aspect of at least a portion of the raw fluid sample.

39. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module comprises mixing and / or thermal modification (e.g., heating, cooling) of the fluid to be tested.

40. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module comprises spectrophotometry and / or spectroscopy.

41. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module is configured to be cleaned (e.g., automatically) using backwashing or a similar cleaning method.

42. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first automated testing module is identical or similar to the second automated testing module, such that the first analyte or parameter is identical or similar to the second analyte or parameter.

43. The system of Claim 42, wherein the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module provide a degree of testing redundancy for the fluid to be tested.

44. A system according to any one of Claims 1 to 41, wherein the first automated testing module is different than the second automated testing module, such that the first analyte or parameter is different than the second analyte or parameter.

45. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system is configured to reduce a volume of waste generated by the system during testing.

46. The system of Claim 45, wherein the volume of waste generated by the system during testing is reduced via adjustment of at least one parameter or characteristic of the raw fluid sample.

47. The system of Claim 46, wherein the at least one parameter or characteristic of the raw fluid sample that is adjusted comprises at least one of the following: a pH, a dilution or a concentration and a solids content.

48. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system is configured to transfer a volume of raw fluid sample to the automated pretreatment module using at least one pump or other fluid transfer device.

49. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises at least a third, a fourth or a fifth automated testing module.

50. A kit for analyzing a fluid to be tested, the kit comprising:an automated pretreatment module for pretreating a fluid to be tested; a first automated testing module configured to receive a volume of treated fluid exiting the automated pretreatment module, the first testing module configured to analyze the treated fluid for a first analyte or parameter:a second automated testing module configured to receive a volume of treated fluid exiting the automated pretreatment module, the second testing module configured to analyze the treated fluid for a second analyte or parameter; anda consumables module or subsystem configured to receive a lurality of fluid containers that contain the at least one reagent and / or other material;wherein a volume of the at least one reagent and / or other material is configured to be transferred from the consumables module or subsystem to at least one of the automated pretreatment module, the first automated testing module and / or the second automated testing module.

51. A method of automatically analyzing a fluid using a fluid testing system, the method comprising:directing a volume of a raw fluid sample from a raw fluid source to an automated pretreatment module of the fluid testing system;modifying at least one aspect of at least a portion of the raw fluid sample using the automated pretreatment module;transferring a first volume of fluid exiting the pretreatment module to a first automated testing module;testing the first volume of fluid for a first analyte or parameter using the first automated testing module;transferring a second volume of fluid exiting the automated pretreatment module to a second testing module;testing the second volume of fluid for a second analyte or parameter using the second automated testing module; andcollecting data related to the testing of the first and second volumes of fluid.

52. The method of Claim 51 ,wherein modifying at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample comprises filtration;wherein modifying at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample comprises subjecting the raw fluid sample to digestion and / or other physical, chemical and / or biological modification; andwherein at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module is configured to receive at least one reagent or other material.

53. The method of Claim 51, wherein modifying at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample comprises filtration.

54. The method of Claim 53, wherein filtration comprises media filtration, membrane filtration and / or any other type of filtration or separation technology configured to remove solids from a fluid.

55. A method according to any one of Claims 51 to 54, wherein modifying at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample comprises subjecting the raw fluid sample to digestion and / or other physical, chemical and / or biological modification.

56. The method of Claim 55, further comprising delivering at least one oxidizing agent and / or another material to the pretreatment module to aid with digestion and / or other modification.

57. A method according to any one of Claims 51 to 56, wherein modifying at least one aspect of the raw fluid sample comprises subjecting the raw fluid sample to ultraviolet light, other type of light and / or other type of energy (e.g., UV, other light, microwave, other energy modalities, heat, etc.).

58. A method according to any one of Claims 51 to 57, wherein a first volume of fluid transferred to the first automated testing module comprises an unmodified volume of the raw fluid sample.

59. A method according to any one of Claims 51 to 58, wherein a second volume of fluid transferred to the second automated testing module comprises a volume of the raw fluid sample modified in at least one aspect by the automated pretreatment module.

60. A method according to any one of Claims 51 to 59, wherein transferring the first volume of fluid exiting the automated pretreatment module to the first automated testing module occurs, at least in part, simultaneously with transferring the second volume of fluid exiting the automated pretreatment module to the second automated testing module, such that testing of the first and second volumes can occur concurrently.

61. A method according to any one of Claims 51 to 60, wherein the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module are identical or similar, so the first analyte or parameter is identical or similar to the second analyte or parameter.

62. A method according to any one of Claims 51 to 61, wherein the first automated testing module is different than the second automated testing module, so the first analyte or parameter is different than the second analyte or parameter.

63. A method according to any one of Claims 51 to 62, wherein at least one of the first automated testing module and the second automated testing module is configured to receive at least one reagent or other material.

64. The method of Claim 63, wherein the at least one reagent or other material is contained in a consumables module or subsystem.

65. The method of Claim 64, wherein each of the at least one reagent or other material is configured to be transferred from the consumables module or subsystem to the first automated testing module and / or the second automated testing module using dedicated and fluidly distinct conduits or other fluid lines.

66. A method according to any one of Claims 51 to 65, wherein the automated pretreatment module is configured to receive at least one reagent or other material.

67. The method of Claim 66, wherein the at least one reagent or other material is contained in a consumables module or subsystem.

68. A method according to any one of Claims 51 to 67, wherein testing the first volume of fluid for the first analyte or parameter using the first automated testing module comprises adding or introducing a volume of reagent or other additive to the first volume of fluid.

69. The method of Claim 68, wherein the reagent or other additive is not exposed to environmental / ambient conditions during storage and transport within the system.

70. A method according to any one of Claims 51 to 69, wherein testing the first volume of fluid for the first analyte or parameter using the first automated testing module comprises mixing the fluid.

71. A method according to any one of Claims 51 to 70. wherein testing the first volume of fluid for the first analyte or parameter using the first automated testing module comprises thermally conditioning (e.g., heating, cooling) the fluid.

72. An automated pretreatment module or system for use with a fluid testing system, the module or subsystem comprising:an inlet configured to receive a raw fluid sample from a raw fluid source; at least one subsystem (e.g., module) configured to modify at least one aspect of at least a portion of the raw fluid sample; andan outlet for directing a volume of a modified fluid sample and / or a volume of the raw fluid sample from the pretreatment module or system to at least one downstream testing module;wherein the volume of the modified fluid sample is configured to enhance a testing procedure in a subsequent testing module.

73. The module or system of Claim 72, wherein the at least one subsystem comprises filtration device or component (e.g., membrane filtration, media filtration, etc.).

74. The module or system of Claim 73, wherein the filtration device or component is configured to remove solids from the raw fluid sample.

75. A module or system according to any one of Claims 72 to 74, wherein the at least one subsystem comprises a digestor and / or other device, system or component configured to modify at least one physical, chemical and / or biological aspect of the raw fluid sample.

76. The module or system of Claim 75. wherein the digestor and / or other device, system or component is configured to add to the raw fluid sample at least one reagent and / or other additive.

77. A module or system according to any one of Claims 72 to 76, wherein the at least one subsystem comprises an ultraviolet (UV) light device and / or other lightemitting device or technology.

78. A module or system according to any one of Claims 72 to 77, wherein the at least one subsystem comprises an energy delivery device (e.g., UV device, other light device, microwave device, other energy delivery device, thermal modification device, etc.).

79. A module or system according to any one of Claims 72 to 78, wherein the at least one subsystem comprises a dilution member.

80. The module or system of Claim 79, wherein the dilution member comprises a reservoir or chamber configured to dilute the raw fluid sample with a volume of water or other dilution fluid.

81. A module or system according to any one of Claims 72 to 80, wherein the at least one subsystem comprises a pH adjustment member.

82. A module or system according to any one of Claims 72 to 81, wherein the at least one subsystem comprises mixing and / or thermal modification (e.g., heating, cooling) of the raw fluid sample.

83. A consumables module or system for use with an automated fluid testing system, the module or subsystem comprising:a plurality of ports, each port configured to receive a container containing at least one reagent for use in a testing module of a fluid testing system:a plurality' of conduits, each conduit being associated with a specific port, so that once a container is secured to a port, an interior of the container is placed in fluid communication with a corresponding conduit;at least one coupling configured to secure to at least one fluid line that is in fluid communication with a testing module of the fluid testing system; anda plurality of pumps or fluid transfer devices configured to selectively help transfer the at least one reagent to the testing module.

84. The module or system of Claim 83, wherein the at least one subsystem comprises is configured to deliver at least one reagent and / or other material to another component or portion of the testing system (e.g., pretreatment module or system).

85. The module or system of Claim 83 or 84, wherein the module or system is configured to detect or approximate a remaining volume of any container secured to the module or system.

86. The module or system of Claim 85, wherein the module or system comprises at least one sensor (e.g., an optical sensor) to detect or approximate the remaining volume.

87. A module or system according to any one of Claims 83 to 86, wherein the ports are configured to receive one or more of the following: a bottle, a canister, a cartridge and a pouch.

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