Dynamic Call Interval Control for Water Quality Monitoring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current water quality monitoring systems face challenges in dynamically adjusting sampling schedules and accessing remote locations, leading to inefficiencies and high costs, as well as limitations in modifying sampling parameters without authorized personnel.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising environmental instruments, a communication server, a call interval modifying module, and a web server that allows for dynamic adjustment of data collection intervals based on collected water quality data and environmental conditions, enabling remote monitoring and data display to users.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a predetermined sampling schedule is used for remote water quality monitoring, then the system is simple to operate and install, but the system cannot dynamically adjust to changing environmental conditions and requires costly on-site access for modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic call intervals that automatically adjust the sampling schedule based on environmental conditions. The system transitions from static predetermined schedules to dynamic schedules where the call interval modifying module changes sampling frequency in response to threshold-based environmental parameters, enabling adaptability without requiring complex manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where environmental data is continuously monitored and compared against threshold values. When thresholds are exceeded or met, the call interval modifying module automatically adjusts the sampling schedule, creating a closed-loop feedback system that adapts to changing conditions without requiring on-site personnel
2Ease of operation
If authorized personnel are deployed to remote locations for on-site modifications, then sampling parameters can be adjusted, but access costs increase and response time is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the monitoring apparatus automatically modifies its own sampling parameters based on environmental conditions. The call interval modifying module allows the system to adjust its operation autonomously without requiring authorized personnel to physically access remote locations, eliminating travel time and enabling immediate parameter modifications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a communication server as an intermediary between the remote monitoring apparatus and authorized personnel. This intermediary enables remote parameter modifications to be transmitted electronically to the field device, allowing sampling parameters to be adjusted without physical presence at the remote site while maintaining authorization controls
3Measurement precision
If frequent sampling is performed to capture environmental changes, then data quality improves, but energy consumption and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes the sampling interval parameter based on environmental conditions. During periods of environmental stability, the call interval increases (reducing sampling frequency and energy consumption). When environmental thresholds are exceeded or met, the call interval decreases (increasing sampling frequency to capture changes), thereby maintaining data quality while optimizing energy usage
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling frequency transitions from static to dynamic, allowing the system to concentrate sampling efforts during periods of environmental change while reducing frequency during stable periods. This dynamic approach ensures measurement precision is maintained when needed while minimizing energy consumption during normal operation
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Described is an apparatus and method for remotely controlling the call interval of an environmental instrument for a water quality monitoring apparatus based on environmental data obtained by one or more environmental instruments.