Distributed Water Sensing Assemblies for Real-Time Leak Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water distribution systems lack efficient and cost-effective methods for monitoring and managing water properties at multiple locations, with a need for real-time data access and system health assessment.
Innovation Solution
A network of water sensing assemblies with integrated sensors and turbines generate power from water flow, transmitting data via wireless communication to a central server for analysis and client access, utilizing a system health monitoring module for predictive maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If water sensing assemblies are installed at various points in the water distribution system to monitor water properties, then measurement coverage and data quality are improved, but system complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the water distribution network into multiple monitoring zones with sensing assemblies installed at strategic points. Each assembly independently measures local water properties (pressure, flow, quality parameters) and transmits data to a central server, enabling distributed monitoring without requiring a single complex centralized system.
Solution Approach 2:
The water sensing assemblies are designed as multi-functional units that can measure multiple water properties simultaneously (pressure, flow rate, temperature, quality parameters). This universal design reduces the number of separate devices needed, simplifying the overall system while improving measurement comprehensiveness.
2Productivity
If real-time data transmission from multiple sensing assemblies to a central server is implemented, then data accessibility and monitoring efficiency are improved, but network infrastructure requirements and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system establishes a feedback loop where sensing assemblies continuously transmit water property data to the central server, which processes the information and can send control commands back to the assemblies or to field equipment. This enables real-time monitoring and responsive decision-making for water distribution management.
Solution Approach 2:
A central server acts as an intermediary between the distributed sensing assemblies and the water utility operations. The server aggregates data from multiple assemblies, performs centralized processing and analysis, and provides a unified interface for accessing water distribution system information, simplifying the complexity for end users.
3Reliability
If health monitoring and predictive maintenance capabilities are added to the system, then system reliability and leak detection are improved, but data processing requirements and computational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary analysis of water property data trends and patterns to predict potential system failures, leaks, or quality issues before they occur. By continuously monitoring parameter changes and comparing against established thresholds and historical data, the system can alert operators to emerging problems, enabling preventive maintenance and reducing the need for reactive emergency responses.
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
Enables real-time monitoring and management of water properties, detects leaks and anomalies, and provides cost-effective, scalable solutions for water utility companies.
Implementation Method 1
a turbine to provide energy to the sensor
Implementation Method 2
a sensor mounted inside the valve box, wherein the sensor is configured to sense a property of water within the underground water pipe
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
Systems and methods of measuring properties of water in a water distribution system are provided. An analysis sys -tern, according to one embodiment, comprises a plurality of water sensors connected at various points to the water distribution sys - tern, each of the plurality of water sensors configured to measure a property of water. The analysis system also includes a computer server configured to communicate with the plurality of water sensors via a network and receive water measurement data from the plurality of water sensors. The computer server comprises a processor, a database configured to store the water measurement data, and a system health monitoring module configured to evaluate the health of the water distribution system to obtain health data. The analysis system further includes at least one client device configured to communicate with the computer server via the network and receive the health data from the computer server.