Backpack Water Sampling System with Automated Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current water sampling methods are limited by sample size, quality, and the potential for contaminant introduction, with remote laboratory analysis being costly and time-consuming, and lacking control over flow rate, pressure, and volume during sampling.
Innovation Solution
A backpack-based water sampling system with a sterile induction tube, disposable filter assembly, electric flow sensor, remote pump controller, and sterile supplies pouch, allowing for controlled flow rate and pressure settings, automatic pump speed adjustment, and contamination prevention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual collection of water samples in containers is used, then sample collection is simple, but sample size is limited by transport capacity and sample quality varies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical sampling with an automated pump-driven filtration system. The pump continuously draws water through a filter assembly, automatically collecting particulate matter on the filter medium without requiring manual container collection. This mechanical automation enables larger sample volumes to be collected in situ during sampling events.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling system is designed to be self-operating through automated control. The pump system automatically draws water through the filter assembly, and the controller manages the sampling process without requiring continuous manual intervention. The system self-regulates flow rate and sampling duration, enabling uninterrupted collection of large water volumes.
2Reliability
If remote laboratory analysis is used, then analysis capability is available, but cost is high and analysis time is lengthy
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary processing of water samples in the field by filtering particulate matter onto removable filter media during the sampling event. This preliminary action prepares the samples for rapid subsequent analysis, eliminating the need for lengthy remote laboratory processing and reducing both time and cost while maintaining analytical reliability.
3Quantity of substance
If filtration device is used to process water samples, then sample size potential is increased, but contaminant introduction risk remains and flow rate control is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates flow rate sensors that provide feedback to the controller, which automatically adjusts pump operation to maintain desired flow rates. This feedback mechanism ensures consistent sampling conditions, prevents excessive flow that could introduce contaminants, and optimizes particulate capture efficiency while managing water volume through the filter assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts sampling parameters including flow rate, pump speed, and sampling duration based on field conditions. The controller modifies these parameters in real-time to optimize filtration performance and minimize contaminant introduction risk, adapting to varying water conditions while maintaining sample quality.
4Manufacturing precision
If automated pump system with flow control is used, then flow rate and pressure control is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single portable backpack unit: the pump system performs water drawing, filtration, flow rate control, and data logging. The controller combines flow rate sensing, pressure monitoring, pump speed regulation, and sampling duration management. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity compared to separate specialized devices while maintaining precise flow and pressure control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances sample quality and representativeness by controlling flow rate, pressure, and volume, reducing contaminant introduction, and facilitating field-based aquatic environmental analysis while reducing costs and analysis time.
Implementation Method 1
a pump generates a vacuum to draw water into the system
Implementation Method 2
a sterile filter membrane collects particulate from the water sample and holds it for subsequent analysis
Data Source
AI summary
A dynamic device for sampling of a body of water, featuring the use of sterile collection equipment and precise parametric controls based on feedback data, so that when the device is activated the product of the sampling and filtration process therein accurately indicates the characteristics of the body of water from which the sample was taken. Various sensors help in providing data for bringing about precise parametric control of the dynamic device.