Manhole Sensor Support Structure for Easy Sewer Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sewer monitoring systems are expensive and difficult to install, limiting their deployment across large networks, and often provide an incomplete or inaccurate view of sewer infrastructure needs.
Innovation Solution
A sensor unit support structure and sensor unit system that includes removably coupled mounting brackets, an elongate beam, and a sensor unit with ultra-sonic sensors and a transceiver for easy installation and accurate monitoring of fluid levels and flow rates in manholes, allowing for extensive network monitoring with low costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If known sewer monitoring systems are deployed, then monitoring capability is provided, but installation difficulty and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is divided into modular components: sensor units, support structures, mounting brackets, and temporary brackets. Each component can be independently manufactured, installed, and replaced. The sensor unit itself is segmented into casing portions that can be opened for battery replacement, enabling maintenance without full system replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
Temporary brackets serve as intermediary elements during installation, engaging the manhole rim to support mounting brackets before permanent fixation. This intermediary support structure simplifies the installation process by providing a stable mounting platform during the transition from temporary to permanent installation state.
2Reliability
If known sewer monitoring systems are deployed, then monitoring capability is provided, but deployment scale is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system's modular architecture enables independent deployment of multiple sensor units across the sewer network without requiring coordinated installation of entire systems. Each sensor unit can be installed in separate manholes by different teams simultaneously, dramatically increasing deployment scale and speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor units and support structures are designed to be cost-effective and potentially replaceable. The temporary brackets are designed for single-use during installation, and the overall system cost is reduced to enable deployment across extensive networks rather than limited to single locations.
3Loss of information
If known sewer monitoring systems are deployed, then monitoring data is collected, but measurement accuracy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor unit incorporates multiple specialized sensors (ultrasonic, flow, temperature, gas detection) positioned to measure specific local conditions within the manhole. Each sensor targets a particular parameter with optimized positioning and orientation, providing detailed local measurements that collectively form an accurate comprehensive view of sewer conditions.
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
The system enables easy and cost-effective installation and accurate monitoring of sewer networks, providing a detailed view of fluid levels and flow rates, facilitating early detection of issues and informed infrastructure planning.
Implementation Method 1
the one or more sensors comprise an ultra-sonic sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
A sensor unit support structure for supporting a sensor unit in a manhole. The support structure comprises an elongate beam adjustable along its length to span a width of the manhole and support the sensor unit within the manhole. The support structure further comprises first and second mounting brackets associated with respective first and second ends of the beam, each mounting bracket being configured to fasten the beam to an inner surface of the manhole. The support structure further comprises first and second temporary brackets associated with respective first and second mounting brackets. The first and second mounting brackets are configured to be removably coupled to the respective first and second temporary brackets, each temporary bracket being configured to engage a rim of the manhole to allow the first and second mounting brackets to be positioned in the manhole and temporarily supported in position until the mounting brackets are fastened to the inner surface of the manhole.