Water Distribution Backflow Detection Using Multi-Node Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing networked sensor systems, such as IoT and AMI, generate vast amounts of data but often fail to effectively utilize this data for timely and accurate detection of alternative events like leaks, contamination, or catastrophic events, due to the limitations of analyzing individual data points in isolation.
Innovation Solution
A system that aggregates and analyzes data from multiple networked nodes to determine alternative outcomes or events, using data collection devices equipped with transceivers, processors, and action modules to send alerts, shut off services, and trigger emergency responses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If individual data points from sensors are analyzed in isolation, then the system maintains simplicity in data processing, but the ability to detect alternative events like leaks, contamination, or backflow conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple data points from different sensors (water meter data, pressure sensor data, flow sensor data) to detect backflow conditions. By merging these previously isolated data streams into a unified analysis framework, the system achieves reliable event detection without requiring complex individual sensor systems.
2Measurement precision
If data from multiple networked nodes is aggregated and analyzed, then the detection accuracy and response time to hazards improve, but the system complexity and data processing requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a data collection device as an intermediary that receives data from multiple nodes, performs aggregation and analysis, and generates alerts. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall system architecture by centralizing the complex data processing tasks, allowing individual sensors to remain simple while achieving sophisticated detection capabilities.
3Loss of time
If real-time analysis of sensor data is implemented to detect backflow conditions, then the response time to hazards improves, but the computational resources and energy consumption worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous monitoring of critical parameters (pressure differential, flow direction) while using threshold-based triggering for full analysis. The system performs partial analysis continuously and only initiates comprehensive backflow detection algorithms when preliminary indicators suggest a potential event, reducing unnecessary computational energy consumption while maintaining rapid response capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A data collection device and method for determining a backflow condition in a water distribution system. The data collection device receives a first data communication from a first node, the first data communication indicating a first possible backflow condition at the first node. The data collection device receives additional data communications from one or more second nodes, the additional data communications indicating backflow conditions at the second nodes. The data collection device aggregates and analyzes the first data value and the additional data values and determines that an actual backflow condition exists based on the aggregated data values and a known relationship between the first node and the second nodes. The data collection device may then perform action(s) in response to determining the backflow condition, such as reporting the backflow condition, requesting updated reporting from the nodes, closing appropriate valves, initiating pumps to increase water pressure, flushing the system, etc.