Thermoelectric Manhole Sensor Module for Maintenance-Free Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor modules for manholes face challenges in installation, maintenance, and power supply, particularly in harsh environments with high concentrations of corrosive gases, leading to difficulties in observing manhole conditions during heavy rainfall, which can result in inundation and safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A sensor module with a thermoelectric power generation module that harnesses the temperature difference between the manhole lid and the air inside the manhole to generate power, driving measurement and communication units, and is easily attachable to the manhole lid without requiring complex installation or frequent battery replacements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large number of sensors are arranged in the manhole to collect detection data, then the observation of manhole conditions is improved, but the construction and maintenance cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensor functions (water level detection, temperature detection, gas concentration detection) into a single integrated sensor module that is installed in the manhole lid, eliminating the need for multiple separate sensors and reducing overall system complexity and cost
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor module is designed to perform multiple detection functions simultaneously (water level, temperature, gas concentration) and can be applied to various types of manholes, providing universal functionality that reduces the need for specialized equipment
2Loss of information
If a sensor module with wireless communication device is installed in the manhole lid, then the collection of detection data is improved, but the installation complexity increases due to the need for power source
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module utilizes the temperature difference between the manhole lid and the manhole interior as a natural resource to generate electricity through thermoelectric power generation, eliminating the need for external power sources, batteries, or complex wiring installations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical power sources (batteries, motors) with a thermoelectric power generation system that converts thermal energy directly into electrical energy, simplifying the overall system architecture
3Use of energy by moving object
If battery and wind power generation device or solar power generation device are used for the sensor module, then the power supply is improved, but the maintenance operation becomes difficult due to battery lifetime
Solution Approach 1:
The thermoelectric power generation system continuously generates electricity as long as there is a temperature difference between the lid and the manhole interior, providing self-sustaining power without requiring periodic battery replacement or maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
The power generation system operates continuously as long as the temperature gradient exists, ensuring uninterrupted power supply for the sensor module without the intermittent operation associated with battery replacement cycles
4Measurement precision
If the sensor module is installed in the manhole lid, then the observation of manhole conditions is improved, but the size of the sensor module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor module is designed with a compact structure where the thermoelectric power generation element is integrated with the sensor components, allowing the entire assembly to fit within the limited space of the manhole lid while maintaining all necessary detection functions
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 solution provides a reliable, long-lasting, and low-maintenance sensor system capable of transmitting data via wireless communication, effectively monitoring manhole conditions without increasing the size of the sensor module, thus enhancing safety and reducing operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
a thermoelectric power generation module configured to generate electric power by a difference in temperature between a first heat transfer unit thermally connected to a manhole lid and a second heat transfer unit thermally connected to a heat radiating unit within a manhole
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a sensor system capable of being used semi-permanently in a maintenance-free state without exchanging batteries as well as being installed in an already-existing manhole lid by a simple work on the spot, and having a measurement unit, a power source unit, and a communication unit, and installed in a manhole lid, wherein the power source unit includes a thermoelectric power generation module configured to generate electric power by a difference in temperature between a first heat transfer unit thermally connected to the manhole lid and a second heat transfer unit thermally connected to a heat radiating unit within a manhole, and the measurement unit and the communication unit are driven by electric power generated by the thermoelectric power generation module and measurement data of the measurement unit is transmitted to the outside via the communication unit.