FIELD OF INVENTION
[001] The present disclosure relates to an intelligent water level monitoring and control system. More specifically, the present invention relates to a system that monitors water level in a storage unit in real-time and accordingly controls or allows a user to control the same.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[002] Water is a basic requirement for all domestic as well as industrial purposes. Water is mostly pumped from a source via a motor and stored in one or more storage tanks so that it can be used as and when required. Hence, monitoring the level of water in the storage tank is critical.
[003] Previously, a user was required to estimate the water level in the storage unit basis the water consumption and accordingly switch on the motor in order to store water. Also, again for switching off the motor, the user was required to check the water level manually or rely on water overflow, thereby leading to water wastage. Hence, manual control of water level required constant attention and monitoring and any lapse in doing so resulted in the storage tank to overflow or run dry, thereby causing damage to the storage tank and other equipment/connections, other than water wastage and wastage of electrical energy.
[004] In order to address the problem associated with manual reliance, tools for automation of water level control were devised. While there are various tools for monitoring and regulating water usage, their functionality is limited. For example, a flood alarm detects water level in a storage tank and triggers an alarm when the water reaches a predetermined level. However, such a system only alerts the user located near the system, basis which the user is required to turn on/off the motor manually.
[005] In addition to the above, many other solutions exist, however, most of the existing systems provide basic monitoring capabilities, without the ability to control water flow or automatically shut off or turn on the water supply, as and when required.
[006] Further, mostly, the sensors used in existing water level controllers are error prone and can produce inaccurate readings due to factors such as condensation of water on the sensor, fluctuations in water pressure, temperature changes, or electrical interference. In fact, some water level controllers may require regular maintenance to ensure accurate readings and optimal performance. For example, the existing systems use metal sensors that rust easily in moisture rich environment of the storage tank thereby affecting the detection capability and impacting efficiency of the system as a whole.
[007] Further, the existing systems are associated with integration challenges. The existing systems may not be integrated with other systems for tracking water levels, making it difficult to gather and analyze water usage data. Hence, it can be difficult to gather historical data on water usage, making it challenging to analyze trends and make informed decisions about water management.
[008] Hence, an improved system and method thereof that addresses the aforesaid problems is required to be devised.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[009] Particular embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings, however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the disclosure, which may be embodied in various forms. Well-known functions or constructions are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the present disclosure in unnecessary detail. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present disclosure in virtually any appropriately detailed structure.
[0010] The present invention discloses an intelligent water level monitoring and control system having at least one detection device provided with a storage unit. The at least one detection device is configured to detect data in real-time. The at least one detection device is a contact-less ultrasonic sensor. A motor is coupled to the storage unit for pumping water in the storage unit. A control unit is operatively coupled to the at least one detection device. The control unit includes a microprocessor that determines water level in the storage unit, derives an outcome (activation or de-activation of the motor) and controls the motor basis the derived outcome. A server is configured to store and transmit the detected data, the determined water level, the derived outcome and executed outcome to a user device in real-time.
[0011] The system is used for controlling water level in one or more storage units by following a following method. The system first receives detected data of the storage unit in real-time. The system them maps the detected data with a first look-up table to determine a water level in the storage unit and compares the water level with one or more threshold values. Post comparison, the system maps the same with a second look-up table to derive an outcome. The outcome is subsequently executed to activate or de-activate a motor to control the water level in the storage unit.
[0012] The foregoing features and other features as well as the advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0013] The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale.
[0014] FIGs. 1a-1f illustrate schematic view of a system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0015] FIGs. 2a-2b depict a detection device 103 of the system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] FIG. 3 depicts a flow chart of a process involved in operation of the system 100 in automated mode in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 4 depicts a flow chart of a process involved in operation of the system 100 in user mode in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS
[0018] Systems and methods for intelligently monitoring and controlling water level are disclosed. The following description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention. For purposes of explanation, specific nomenclature is set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. Descriptions of specific applications are provided only as examples. Various modifications to the preferred embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.
[0019] The embodiments are described below with reference to block diagrams and/or data flow illustrations of methods, apparatus, systems, and computer program products. It should be understood that each block of the block diagrams and/or data flow illustrations, respectively, may be implemented in part by computer program instructions, e.g., as logical steps or operations executing on a processor in a computing system. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a computer, such as a special purpose computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a specifically-configured machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus implement the functions specified in the data flow illustrations or blocks.
[0020] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including computer-readable instructions for implementing the functionality specified in the flowchart block or blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process such that the instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide operations for implementing the functions specified in the data flow illustrations or blocks.
[0021] Accordingly, blocks of the block diagrams and data flow illustrations support various combinations for performing the specified functions, combinations of operations for performing the specified functions and program instructions for performing the specified functions. It should also be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based computer systems that perform the specified functions or operations, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.
[0022] Further, applications, software programs or computer readable instructions may be referred to as components or modules. Applications may be hardwired or hardcoded in hardware or take the form of software executing on a general-purpose computer such that when the software is loaded into and/or executed by the computer, the computer becomes an apparatus for practicing the invention, or they are available via a web service. Applications may also be downloaded in whole or in part through the use of a software development kit or a toolkit that enables the creation and implementation of the present invention. In this specification, these implementations, or any other form that the invention may take, may be referred to as techniques. In general, the order of the steps of disclosed processes may be altered within the scope of the invention.
[0023] The present invention relates to an intelligent water level monitoring and control system. The intelligent water level monitoring and control system of the present invention monitors the water level in a storage unit (tank, reservoir, or other container) in real-time and accordingly helps to control the water level such that the water level remains within a desired range, regardless of changes in demand or supply.
[0024] The intelligent water level monitoring and control system includes at least one detection device coupled to the storage unit for measuring the water level. The intelligent water level monitoring and control system further includes a control unit to compare the measured water level with a pre-stored value and make decisions based on the said comparison. The said decisions can be implemented by the control unit itself for controlling the water level via activation/deactivation of a motor. Alternately, a user may remotely control the water level with the help of the intelligent water level monitoring and control system.
[0025] In addition to the above control, the intelligent water level monitoring and control system automatically deactivates the motor at the time of dry run (i.e., when there is no supply of water from a water source).
[0026] In fact, other than control, the intelligent water level monitoring and control system allows the user to access any information/data relating to the water level as well as its regulation by the intelligent water level monitoring and control system easily by a click of a button.
[0027] The intelligent water level monitoring and control system may be a standalone device or may be integrated into a larger system such as a building management system or an industrial automation system.
[0028] FIGs. 1a-1e illustrate various embodiments of an architecture of an intelligent water level monitoring and control system 100 (or system 100). The system 100 offers a comprehensive solution to the limitations of existing systems. The system 100 is configured to monitor water level in one or more storage units 101 in real-time and accordingly control or enable a user to remotely control the water level in the storage unit(s) 101. The system 100 helps to regulate the water flow and prevents overfilling of the storage unit 101 or running dry. Hence, the system 100 prevents water/electricity wastage and provides enhanced safety by reducing the risk of damage to the storage unit 101 or equipment.
[0029] Other than real-time monitoring and control of water level, the system 100 allows the user to easily track and analyze the water level in the storage unit 101 in real-time and also provides the user with time stamped records, history of water usage/water level, data relating to different components of the system 100.
[0030] Given the system 100 can communicate with the user, the system 100 provides peace of mind to the user and allows the user to take informed decisions relating water management.
[0031] The storage unit 101 may be any type of a container known in the art. The storage unit 101 may be made of a material such as, but not limited to concrete, polyethylene, etc. The storage unit 101 may include a pre-defined shape and dimensions. The storage unit 101 is capable of holding a pre-defined volume of water.
[0032] It should be noted that the system 100 of the present invention does not restrict itself to any specific type of the storage unit 101. The present invention can include any type of the storage unit 101 as conventionally known and irrespective of the storage unit 101 utilized, the system 100 will operate in the same manner.
[0033] Though the present invention has been described by way of monitoring and controlling the level of water in the storage unit 101, the teachings of the present invention may also be applied to other fluids.
[0034] As evident in FIGs. 1a-1e, the system 100 includes at least one detection device 103 coupled to the storage unit 101, at least one motor 105, at least one control unit 107, a server 109 and a user device 111.
[0035] The at least one detection device 103 of the present invention is capable of sensing data i.e., the level of the water in the one or more storage units 101. The detection device 103 may detect data i.e., the water level in the storage unit 101 in real-time or in a pre-defined time duration, say, every 10 minutes. In an embodiment, the pre-defined time duration is controllable and can be manipulated by the user.
[0036] In an embodiment, a single detection device 103 per storage unit 101 is provided. Alternately, each storage unit 101 may be provided with multiple detection devices 103. The detection device 103 may be placed at a pre-defined location of the storage unit 101. In an embodiment, the detection device 103 is placed inside the storage unit 101 such that the detection device 103 never comes in contact with water and hence, is contact-less.
[0037] The detection device 103 may be in the form of a sensor such as, without limitation, radar level sensor, capacitive level sensor, optical sensor, conductivity sensor, pressure sensor, tilt sensor, etc. In an embodiment, the detection device 103 is a contact-less ultrasonic sensor.
[0038] An exemplary embodiment of the detection device 103 of the present invention is shown in FIGs. 2a-2b. As shown in Figure 2a, the detection device 103 includes a circuit board 103a provided with a transmitter 103b, a receiver 103c, an oscillation circuit (not shown), etc.
[0039] The transmitter 103b generates and emits high-frequency ultrasonic waves that travel through air and bounce off/reflect from a surface of the water in the storage unit 101. The receiver 103c receives the ultrasonic waves reflected from the surface of water.
[0040] The time taken for the ultrasonic waves emitted from the transmitter 103b to be received at the receiver 103c post reflection from the surface of water in the storage unit 101 is monitored by the oscillation circuit. Hence, the oscillation circuit is connected with the transmitter 103b and the receiver 103c and measures the time interval between the transmission of the ultrasonic waves and its receipt. The aforesaid measurement is used to determine the distance of the detection device 103 to the surface of the water in the storage unit 101. The said distance when subtracted from the total height of the storage unit 101 corresponds to the water level in the storage unit 101.
[0041] The circuit board 103a is housed within a casing 103d as shown in Figure 2b. The casing 103d is structured basis the shape and dimensions of the circuit board 103a. The casing 103d may be made of a polymer, metal, etc. In an embodiment, the casing 103d is made of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) plastic.
[0042] The casing 103d may be coupled to a connector 103d1 as shown in FIG. 2b which allows connectivity of a wire with the circuit board 103a of the detection device 103.
[0043] The casing 103d includes two openings that are aligned with the position of the transmitter 103b and the receiver 103c on the circuit board 103a. Each of the openings is dimensioned according to the dimensions of the transmitter 103b and the receiver 103c in such a way that the transmitter 103b and the receiver 103c remain uncovered. This arrangement allows the transmitter 103b and the receiver 103c to transmit and receive ultrasonic waves respectively, without any barrier or interference, even though housed within the casing 103d.
[0044] The openings are further provided with respective legs 103e1, 103e2 as shown in Figure 2b. The legs 103e1, 103e2 may be coupling to or form an integral part of the casing 103d. The legs 103e1, 103e2 project outward from the casing 103d in such a way that each leg 103e1, 103e2 encircles a corresponding/respective opening of the two openings. The legs 103e1, 103e2 may be in the form of cylindrical tubes as shown in Figure 2b. However, the shape of the legs 103e1, 103e2 may be varied.
[0045] Though the detection device 103 of the present invention is contact-less, given the detection device 103 is provided within an enclosed environment of the storage unit 101 with high humidity, water vapours may condense on the surface of the transmitter 103b and/or the receiver 103c. Condensation interferes with the ultrasonic waves thereby adversely impacting the performance of the detection device 103 and cause errors in the readings. Also, condensation may eventually lead to corrosion of the detection device 103 and hence, significantly reduce the shelf-life of the detection device 103.
[0046] The legs 103e1, 103e2 provided in the detection device 103 mitigate the problem of condensation of water vapours on the transmitter 103b and the receiver 103c. The legs 103e1, 103e2 act as a protective cover for the transmitter 103band the receiver 103c and help to minimize the exposure of the transmitter 103b and the receiver 103c to moisture. The legs 103e1, 103e2 act as a barrier between the water vapours/droplets and the transmitter 103b and the receiver 103c. The edges of the legs 103e1, 103e2 break the water droplets thereby inhibiting the water droplets to travel through the legs 103e1, 103e2 to the transmitter 103band the receiver 103c. Hence, the legs 103e1, 103e2 allow smooth transmission and receipt of signals. Due to smooth transmission and receipt of signals, stable as well as accurate readings/values are recorded in real-time. Also, irrespective of the weather condition/atmospheric condition, the functioning of the detection device 103 remains unimpacted.
[0047] Hence, the detection device 103 of the present invention improves the efficiency and accuracy of the system 100. Also, as evident from the above, the detection device 103 is a portable and an independent unit which in case of any damage/malfunction, can be easily replaced without changing any other component of the system 100.
[0048] The detection device 103 may be capable of transmitting one or more inputs to the control unit 107. The detection device 103 is configured to transmit the data from the oscillation circuit (detected data) to the control unit 107. The transmission may be in the form of analogue signals.
[0049] The motor 105 is coupled to the storage unit 101 and is utilized to pump water from a water source to the storage unit 101. The operation (activation/switch on and de-activation/switch off) of the motor 105 is controlled by the control unit 107.
[0050] It should be noted that the system 100 of the present invention does not restrict itself to any specific type of motor 105 and hence, the present invention can include any type of motor 105.
[0051] The control unit 107 of the present invention is operatively coupled to the detection device(s) 103, the motor 105 and the server 109. The control unit 107 may have a wired connection with the detection device(s) 103. The control unit 107 may be connected to the server 109 via a network 10 say, a wireless network. In an embodiment, the control unit 107 is connected to the server 109 via a WiFi connection.
[0052] The control unit 107 is configured to receive one or more inputs from the detection device 103 and the server 109 and is capable of transmitting inputs to the server 109 as represented in FIGs. 1a-1f. The control unit 107 is configured to control/manipulate the operation of the motor 105.
[0053] In order to control (activate/de-activate) the motor 105, the control unit 107 may have a wired or a wireless connection with the motor 105. In case, the control unit 107 has a wired connection with the motor 105, the control unit 107 may directly control (activate or de-activate) the motor 105 as shown in FIGs. 1a and 1b.
[0054] Alternately, if the control unit 107 may be wirelessly connected to the motor 105 via a switching device 105a or a starter device 105b provided with the motor 105 as shown in FIGs. 1c-1d. The switching device 105a and the starter device 105b may be receiver devices without any intelligence whatsoever. The control unit 107 may communicate with the switching device 105a or the starter device 105b over the network 10 and control (activate/de-active) the motor 105 basis the outcome received from the control unit 107.
[0055] Depending upon the type of motor 105 used, the system 100 may either include the switching device 105a or the starter device 105b. For example, for normal motors, the switching device 105a is coupled to the motor 105 and the control unit 107 may wirelessly connect with the switching device 105a for controlling the motor 105 as shown in FIG. 1c. In case of submersible motors, the starter device 105b is coupled to the motor 105 and the control unit 107 may wirelessly connect with the starter device 105b for controlling the motor 105 as shown in FIG. 1d. The starter device 105b may be integrated with the starter controller of the submersible motor.
[0056] In an embodiment, the control unit 107 is in the form of a microprocessor having an inbuilt software and inbuilt database. The inbuilt software is stored in a chip on the microprocessor. The inbuilt software is configured to compare data received from the detection device 103 with one or more pre-stored values saved in the inbuilt database to derive an outcome which is accordingly executed by the microprocessor. The control unit 107 also includes a relay control circuit which mediates execution of the outcome. The outcome may include activation or deactivation (switch on or off) of the motor 105. Hence, the control unit 107 is equipped with decision-making capabilities.
[0057] The pre-stored values saved in the inbuilt database may be in the form of one or more look up tables (first and second look up tables described below) and one or more threshold values that are referred by the control unit 107 at the time of comparisons to drive the outcome as mentioned above (described below in detail).
[0058] The control unit 107 and the detection device 103 may be powered by an energy source such as batteries, adapter, USB power, etc. In an embodiment, the detection device 103 is powered by batteries while the control unit 107 is powered by an adapter.
[0059] The control unit 107 is configured to transmit data as received from the detection device 103 and the data processed by itself (including comparisons and outcome derived) to the server 109 in real-time.
[0060] The server 109 may be a virtual/cloud server that connects the control unit 107 with the user device 111. In an embodiment, the server 109 is capable of storing and exchanging data (transmitting and receiving) including the detected data, the determined water level, the derived outcome and executed outcome in real-time between the control unit 107 and the user device 111. The server 109 may or may not include intelligence for processing and computing data. For example, the server 109 may be capable of conducting mappings using basic match operations.
[0061] In an embodiment, the server 109 is configured to convert the data received from the control unit 107 (the detected data, the determined water level, the derived outcome and executed outcome) to prepare reports, log books, and/or graphical representations and transmit the same to the user device 111. The server 109 may include a dedicated module for preparation of such reports and/or representations.
[0062] The server 109 may include a database for storing one or more of, water level readings, controller configuration settings (including motor activation and deactivation thresholds, automatic/manual settings, and other parameters), status of the motor 105 (whether they are running or idle, the amount of water they have pumped, and their performance history), status of the detection device 103 (dead, misaligned), status of water supply from the water source (dry run), user activity (a log of any changes made to the system 100 by the user including changes to controller configuration settings and other actions).
[0063] The information stored in the database may be readily accessed by the user by way of the user device 111 and can be analyzed to monitor the performance of the system 100, detect and troubleshoot issues, and optimize the operation of the system 100, at any given time.
[0064] The user device 111 may communicate with the server 109 bi-directionally via the network 10. The user device 111 may be in the form of a client computer which may include a laptop, a handheld device such as a mobile phone, a cell phone, a smartphone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a tablet, etc., a wearable device like a smart watch, etc. An application 20 may be installed on the user device 111 to access the real-time data/status and historical data with respect to the water level in the storage unit 101, status of the motor 105, etc and also to input instructions to activate/de-activate the motor 105. Alternately, the user device 111 may launch a browser for accessing the aforesaid data.
[0065] The user device 111 may include one or more processors, memories, input/output devices, and a network interface, such as a conventional modem. The user device 111 may communicate with the server 109 to send one or more access requests via a user interface of the application 20 for accessing the real-time data of water level in the storage unit 101, reports/log books/representations/historical data, etc. Further, the user interface may allow the user to interact with the control unit 107 for controlling the water level via the server 109 (as elaborated below in detail).
[0066] In an embodiment, the system 100 includes multiple user devices 111 wherein one or more user devices 111 may only view data while the remaining user device(s) 111 may view data as well control the motor 105. Alternately, all user devices 111 may view data as well control the motor 105.
[0067] It should be noted that though the system 100 represented in FIGs. 1a-1d is shown to monitor and control water level in a single storage unit 101, the system 100 is capable of controlling multiple storage units 101 at once. In such a case, each storage unit 101 is assigned an identifier. Each storage unit 101 may be provided with respective detection device(s) 103, a respective motor 105 and a respective control unit 107 as shown in FIG. 1e. Alternately, a common motor 105 may be provided for multiple storage units 101 as shown in FIG. 1f.
[0068] All the control units 107 may transmit data to and receive data from a common server 109. Therefore, each of the control units 107 may transmit data to the common server 109 along with the respective identifier so that the common server 109 accordingly segregates the received data. In case of multiple storage units 101, the system 100 may communicate with a single user device 111 to transmit and receive data corresponding to all the storage unit 101 in accordance with an embodiment shown in FIG. 1e. Hence, the user can monitor multiple storage units 101 and control the water level in the storage units 101 via a single user device 111 at once using the system 100 of the present invention.
[0069] Alternately, each storage unit 101 may be associated with a respective user device 111 (as shown in FIG. 1f). In such a case, each user device 111 has an identifier which is same as the identifier of the storage unit 101 associated with it. The common server 109 firsts maps the identifier of the storage unit 101 with the identifier of the user device 111 and only the transmits/receives data if there is a successful match. Hence, a specific user device 111 can only monitor (access/view data) and control water level in the corresponding storage unit 101 and cannot monitor or control water level in any other storage unit 101.
[0070] In an embodiment, a master user device 111a may be provided in the system 100 indicated in FIG. 1f. The master user device 111a may be provided with access of data corresponding to all the storage units 101 included in the system 100. The master user device 111a may be permitted to monitor the real-time water level in each of the storage units 101, the action taken by each of the user devices 111, status and historical data relating to activation/de-activation of the motor 105, etc. Optionally, the master user device 111a may also be provided with an access of controlling the motor 105. In such a case, the provision of controlling the motor 105 by individual user devices 111 may be disabled.
[0071] As an exemplary application, such a system 100 as depicted in FIG. 1f may be deployed in domestic set-ups like housing societies that have multiple flats. In such a case, each flat may include a respective storage unit 101 associated with a corresponding user device 111 held by a resident of the flat. The master user device 111a may be held by an admin of the housing society so that the admin is able to track the water level in the storage units 101 of each of the flats and optionally control the water level if required. The user devices 111 in such a case act as sub-users which are added by the master user device 111a.
[0072] The storage units 101 may include a common motor 105 or alternately, respective motors 105. In case of a common motor 105 as shown in FIG. 1f, the motor 105 is capable of pumping water to each of the storage units 101 independently. Therefore, if at any time one or more storage units 101 are empty, the common motor 105 can be controlled in the automatic mode or the user mode to pump water to said storage unit 101 without affecting water level in other storage units 101 in which the water level is maximum. This can be achieved by using a ball float valve or a solenoid valve. Further, in this case, the control units 107 associated with all the storage units 101 are in communication with each other so that water level in each storage unit 101 can be independently controlled.
[0073] The above-described system 100 may be configured to operate in an automatic mode or a user mode. In automatic mode, the motor 105 is controlled by the control unit 107 basis the outcome derived by the control unit 107 post comparison. In user mode, the motor 105 is controlled by the control unit 107 basis the inputs provided by the user device 111. Hence, in user mode, the decision-making capabilities of the control unit 107 are superseded by the user.
[0074] FIG. 3 illustrates a flow diagram of monitoring and controlling the water level in the storage unit 101 when the system 100 is operated in the automatic mode.
[0075] At step 301, the user may input at least two threshold values i.e., a lower threshold value and an upper threshold value via the user device 111. The lower threshold value corresponds to a value of water level at which the motor 105 is required to be activated or switched on. The upper threshold value corresponds to a value of water level at which the motor 105 is required to be deactivated or switched off.
[0076] The threshold values provided by the user device 111 may be stored in the database of the server 109. The server 109 also communicates with the control unit 107 to share the threshold values which are then saved in the database of the control unit 107. Hence, the control unit 107 receives the threshold values and accordingly performs subsequent steps.
[0077] At step 303, the detection device 103 detects and transmits the detected data to the control unit 107 and hence, the detected data of the storage unit 101 is received by the control unit 107. The detected data includes the data from the oscillation circuit.
[0078] At step 305, the control unit 107 processes the detection data and determines a water level in the storage unit 101. Processing the detection data includes mapping/comparing the detected data with a first look-up table stored in the database of the control unit 107. The first look-up table includes the time taken for the ultrasonic waves to travel from the detection device 103 to the water and back, with corresponding values of the distance between the detection device 103 and the surface of the water in the storage unit 101. Hence, at step 305, the detected data is mapped with the corresponding value of the time taken for the reflected ultrasonic wave to strike back at the receiver 103c of the detection device 103 as included in the first look-up table and the corresponding distance determined basis the match, is converted into a measurement of water level in the storage unit 101. Hence, the water level is determined.
[0079] It should be noted that the control unit 107 not only determines the water level at every instance (in real-time) but also compares an instantaneous value of the water level determined with a preceding value of the water level in real-time at step 305. If there is no difference between the instantaneous value of the water level and the preceding value of the water level for a pre-configured time, then the motor 105 is deactivated by the control unit 107 and no subsequent steps are followed. The aforesaid condition is indicative of dry run i.e. when there is no supply of water from the water source. The pre-configured time may be saved by the user initially.
[0080] At 307, the water level determined at step 305 is then compared with the threshold values as pre-stored in the database of the control unit 107 at step 301.
[0081] It should be noted that comparison of the water level with the threshold values may include checking for equality or inequality between the water level determined and threshold values, performing greater than/less than comparisons, etc. In an embodiment, the control unit 107 implements comparison operations using conditional statements, such as "if" and "while" loops, and compares the threshold values stored in the database of the control unit 107 with the water level.
[0082] The control unit 107 may include a second look-up table. The second look-up may include a table of outcomes mapped with each comparison result. An exemplary table 1 is provided below for explanation.
S. No. Comparison result Outcome
1 Water level > lower threshold value
Water level < greater threshold value Motor 105 activation
2 Water level > lower threshold value
Water level = greater threshold value Motor 105 deactivation
3 Water level < lower threshold value
Water level < greater threshold value Motor 105 activation
TABLE 1
[0083] Hence, the control unit 107 derives an outcome corresponding to the comparison result basis the determined water level using the second look-up table post comparison of the water level with one or more threshold values. According to the derived outcome i.e., activation/ deactivation of the motor 105, a corresponding action is executed for controlling the motor 105 at step 309 in online or offline mode.
[0084] It should be noted that each of the steps of the above method is performed in real-time.
[0085] As evident from the above, the control of the water level by activation or de-activation of the motor 105 in automatic mode does not require the network 10.
[0086] FIG. 4 illustrates a flow diagram of monitoring and controlling the water level in the storage unit 101 when the system 100 is operated in the user mode.
[0087] At step 401, the detection device 103 detects and transmits the detected data to the control unit 107.
[0088] At step 403, the control unit 107 processes the detected data and determines a water level of the storage unit 101. The processing of the detected data may be similar to step 305 elaborated above.
[0089] At step 405, the control unit 107 transmits the water level to the server 109 which updates the same in its database and also pushes the water level to the user device 111.
[0090] The control unit 107 may or may not compare the water level with one or more threshold values as indicated in step 307 above. The threshold values may be pre-stored in the database of the control unit 107 at the time of installation of the system 100 depending upon the capacity and dimensions of the storage unit 101.
[0091] In an embodiment, the control unit 107 compares the water level with one or more threshold values to derive an outcome and pushes the outcome to the server 109. As an alternate, the control unit 107 may only transmit the real-time values of the water level to the user device 111 via the server 109 without any comparing /mapping the water level. Hence, in such a case, the user may directly control the water level as and when required via the user device 111. The server 109 transmits the outcome/water level to the user device 111.
[0092] The server 109 may optionally generate an alert basis the outcome received by the control unit 107. The alert may be in the form of an audio, a visual or an audio-visual signal.
[0093] The server 109 may include a third look-up table which includes different alerts mapped with each outcome. An exemplary table 2 is provided below for explanation.
S. No. Outcome Alert
1 Motor 105 activation Notification with time interval of 10 seconds till the motor 105 has been activated
2 Motor 105 deactivation Notification till the motor 105 has been deactivated
[0094] At step 407, the user device 111 inputs a selection for activation/deactivation of the motor 105 which is transmitted to the server 109. The user’s input may be in the form of a voice instruction, press of a button, gesture, device shake, etc.
[0095] At step 409, the server 109 transmits the selection to the control unit 107 which then controls the motor 105 in turn controlling the water level in the storage unit 101.
[0096] In addition to the above, the system 100 may include a provision for time scheduling in user mode. In such a case, the user may input a time duration for activation of the motor 105 in a pre-defined schedule (inclusive of a pre-defined duration, day and date). For example, the user sets to activate the motor 105 every Sunday from 10 am to 11am. Such settings are saved on the database of the server 109 as well as the control unit 107. Hence, the control unit 107 is programmed basis the desired schedule and automatically performs activation of the motor 105 at 10 am and deactivation of the motor 105 at 11am. For performing the time scheduling functionality, the control unit 107 includes an embedded timer.
[0097] The control unit 107 may completely disregard the inputs of the detection device 103 when the system 100 has been time scheduled. Hence, the control unit 107 may activate and deactivate the motor 105 basis the scheduled time duration irrespective of the water level in the storage unit 101.
[0098] As evident from the above, the control of the water level by activation or de-activation of the motor 105 in user mode requires the network 10. However, in case the network 10 is unavailable (lack of WiFi, disturbance with connection, etc.), the control unit 107 takes over and controls the water level without any exchange with the server 109 or the user device 111 using its relay control circuit.
[0099] Therefore, irrespective of being operated in the automatic or the user mode, the system 100 of the present invention is capable of controlling the water level in the storage unit 101 independent of the availability of the network 10 i.e., in an online mode (availability of network 10) as well as in an offline mode (unavailability of network 10).
[00100] The scope of the invention is only limited by the appended patent claims. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings of the present invention is/are used.

WE CLAIM

1. An intelligent water level monitoring and control system (100) comprising:
at least one detection device (103) coupled to a storage unit (101), the at least one detection device (103) configured to detect data in real-time, wherein the at least one detection device (103) is a contact-less ultrasonic sensor;
a motor (105) coupled to the storage unit (101) for pumping water in the storage unit (101);
a control unit (107) operatively coupled to the at least one detection device (103), the control unit (107) having a microprocessor configured to:
determine a water level in the storage unit (101) by comparing the detected data with a first look-up table,
derive an outcome basis the determined water level using a second look-up table post comparison of the water level with one or more threshold values, the outcome being one of activation of the motor (105) or de-activation of the motor (105), and
control the motor (105) basis the derived outcome; and
a server (109) configured to store and exchange the detected data, the determined water level, the derived outcome and executed outcome between the control unit (107) and a user device (111) in real-time.
2. The intelligent water level monitoring and control system (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the at least one detection device (103) includes:
a circuit board (103a) having a transmitter (103b), a receiver (103c) and an oscillation circuit connected with the transmitter (103b) and the receiver (103c);
a casing (103d) housing the circuit board (103a), the casing (103d) having two openings, each opening aligned with and dimensioned according to the transmitter (103b) or the receiver (103c); and
two legs (103e1, 103e2) coupled to or integral to the casing (103d), each leg (103e1, 103e2) projecting outward from the casing (103d) encircling a respective opening of the two openings.
3. The intelligent water level monitoring and control system (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the control unit (107) includes an inbuilt database to store the first look-up table, the second look-up table and the one or more threshold values.
4. The intelligent water level monitoring and control system (100) as claimed in claims 1 and 2 wherein the detected data includes data from the oscillation circuit of the at least one detection device (103).
5. The intelligent water level monitoring and control system (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the control unit (107) is configured to compare an instantaneous value of water level with a preceding value of water level in real-time and deactivate the motor (105) if the instantaneous value of water level and the preceding value of water level is same for a pre-configured time.
6. The intelligent water level monitoring and control system (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the control unit (107) has a wired connection with the motor (105) to allow direct control of the motor (105).
7. The intelligent water level monitoring and control system (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the control unit (107) is wirelessly connected to the motor (105) and is configured to communicate with a switching device (105a) or a starter device (105b) provided with the motor (105) to control the motor (105).
8. The intelligent water level monitoring and control system (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the server (109) is configured to convert the detected data, the determined water level, the derived outcome and executed outcome into reports, log books, and/or graphical representations and transmit the same to the user device (111).
9. The intelligent water level monitoring and control system (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the system (100) includes multiple storage units (101), each storage unit (101) being assigned an identifier and is associated with:
a respective or a common motor (105);
a respective detection device (103); and
a server (109) configured to transmit and receive data from a common user device (111).
10. The intelligent water level monitoring and control system (100) as claimed in claim 1 wherein the system (100) includes multiple storage units (101), each storage unit (101) being assigned an identifier and is associated with:
a respective or a common motor (105);
a respective detection device (103); and
a server (109) configured to transmit and receive data from a respective user device (111) on a successful match between the identifier of the storage unit (101) and an identifier of the user device (111).
11. The intelligent water level monitoring and control system (100) as claimed in claim 10 wherein the common server (109) is configured to transmit and/or receive data from a master user device (111a).
12. A method for controlling water level in a storage unit (101), the method comprising:
a. receiving detected data of a storage unit (101) in real-time;
b. mapping the detected data with a first look-up table to determine a water level;
c. comparing the water level with one or more threshold values and mapping the same with a second look-up table to derive an outcome; and
d. executing the outcome to activate or de-activate a motor (105) to control the water level in the storage unit (101).
13. The method as claimed in claim 12 wherein the receiving the detected data includes receiving data from an oscillation circuit of the at least one detection device (103).
14. The method as claimed in claim 12 wherein the mapping the detected data includes mapping the detected data with a corresponding value of time taken for a reflected ultrasonic wave to strike back at a receiver (103c) of at least one detection device (103) as included in the first look-up table and determining the water level accordingly.
15. The method as claimed in claim 12 wherein the executing the outcome includes directly activating or de-activating the motor (105) in an online or an offline mode.
16. The method as claimed in claim 12 wherein the executing the outcome includes activating or de-activating the motor (105) via a switching device (105a) or a starter device (105b).
17. The method as claimed in claim 12 wherein the method includes transmitting the detected data, the determined water level, the derived outcome and the executed outcome to a user device (111) in real-time via a server (109).
18. The method as claimed in claim 12 wherein the method includes comparing an instantaneous value of water level with a preceding value of water level in real-time and deactivating the motor (105) if the instantaneous value of water level and the preceding value of water level is same for a pre-configured time.