Combined Sewer Overflow Sensors for Real-Time Volume Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current monitoring methods for combined sewer systems are primitive and ineffective in accurately determining the start, end, and volume of sewage overflows, leading to environmental contamination during storm events, as they lack real-time data and precise measurements.
Innovation Solution
A detection system comprising sensors positioned over non-overflow and overflow sides of combined sewer structures, with wireless data transmission to a central processing system, enabling real-time monitoring of fluid levels, overflow event timing, and volume calculations, using various sensor types such as ultrasonic, radar, and MEM sensors, and environmental sensors to account for rain and debris accumulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If primitive monitoring methods are used for combined sewer systems, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability of overflow detection deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is segmented into multiple independent sensor units deployed at different locations within the combined sewer structure. Each sensor independently monitors specific parameters (fluid level, flow rate, temperature) and transmits data to a central processing system, enabling precise overflow detection without requiring a monolithic complex system
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring system performs multiple functions using integrated sensor units: fluid level measurement, flow rate calculation, temperature monitoring, and overflow event detection. This multi-functionality achieves high measurement precision while avoiding the need for separate specialized devices for each parameter
2Loss of information
If real-time monitoring of fluid levels is implemented, then loss of information about overflow events is reduced, but use of energy for continuous sensor operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system operates in periodic cycles rather than continuous monitoring. Sensors take measurements at predetermined time intervals and enter low-power states between measurements, significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining adequate overflow event detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where sensor data is analyzed and processing intensity is adjusted based on system state. During normal operation, lower sampling rates reduce energy use, while during detected overflow events, the system increases monitoring frequency to capture complete event data
3Reliability
If multiple sensors are deployed to mitigate fouling effects, then reliability of measurement is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensor structures are positioned at different local locations within the weir structure, specifically designed to avoid high-fouling zones. Each sensor has an optimized position and orientation that minimizes its exposure to debris and sediment while maintaining measurement capability, reducing the need for excessive redundancy
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an intermediary processing algorithm that combines data from multiple sensors to compensate for individual sensor fouling. When one sensor becomes fouled, the system uses data from other sensors and mathematical models to maintain reliable measurements without requiring physical access for sensor maintenance
4Loss of time
If comprehensive sensor data collection is implemented, then loss of time for response planning is reduced, but device complexity and data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary data processing and analysis at the sensor level before data transmission. Sensors pre-calculate flow rates from level measurements, pre-identify potential overflow conditions, and pre-filter relevant data, reducing the processing burden on central systems and enabling faster response planning
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts only the most critical and relevant data elements for overflow response planning, rather than transmitting and processing all raw sensor data. Key parameters such as overflow timing, volume, and rate are extracted and prioritized, reducing data processing complexity while maintaining adequate response time
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
Provides accurate and comprehensive data for regulatory compliance, public notification, and maintenance alerts, allowing for better planning and minimization of overflows, enabling predictive tools for storm events and capital improvements.
Implementation Method 1
one or more of the sensors are either ultrasonic, radar, capacitive, optical, standoff water level, immersed water level, weir trigger level, contact, float, moisture, conductivity sensor, magnetic, or micro-electro-mechanical (MEM)
Implementation Method 2
one or more of the sensors are either ultrasonic, radar, capacitive, optical, standoff water level, immersed water level, weir trigger level, contact, float, moisture, conductivity sensor, magnetic, or micro-electro-mechanical (MEM)
Implementation Method 3
the weir sensor structure contains a MEM sensor with a movable float
Data Source
AI summary
A combined sewer/enclosure overflow (CSO) sensor system is described for accurate detection and measurement of overflow events. From the combined data, trending information can determine if there is debris accumulation. Rain masks can be used in the trending data to measure overall health. External sensors in combination with the CSO sensors provide predictive information and additional levels of information/data accuracy. The sensor system automatically and remotely monitors CSO locations and provides real-time data regarding start times, stop times, duration, and flow volumes of overflows that occur in these structures and provide regulatory and public notification of these events.