Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
[001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to methane concentration sensing systems and particularly to a system and method for real-time monitoring of methane levels in air within wetland regions.
DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART
[002] Wetlands are crucial ecosystems that play a vital role in biodiversity conservation, flood control, and water purification. However, they also release methane gas, a potent greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. Managing methane emissions from wetlands is challenging due to the remote and expansive nature of these ecosystems. Existing solutions for monitoring methane concentrations often rely on conventional power sources or require frequent maintenance that limits their effectiveness in remote wetland regions. Additionally, conventional methods lack real-time monitoring capabilities that further hinder timely response to methane leaks.
[003] A "Microbial Fuel Cell" (MFC) is a bio-electrochemical device that uses microorganisms to convert organic compounds directly into electrical energy. It operates based on metabolic activities of bacteria, which oxidize organic matter and transfer electrons to an electrode, generating electricity in the process.
[004] At present, there is no commercial application of microbial fuel cells specifically for monitoring methane concentrations in remote wetland regions. Existing solutions for methane monitoring lack an integration of microbial fuel cell technology, which limits their sustainability and effectiveness in remote environments.
[005] There is thus a need for an improved and advanced microbial fuel cell powered methane concentration sensing system that can overcome the limitations of existing prior arts in a more efficient manner.
SUMMARY
[006] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide a methane concentration sensing system comprising a methane analyzer for real-time monitoring of methane concentration in air, a temperature sensor integrated with the methane analyzer for simultaneous monitoring of an ambient temperature, and a computing unit in communication with the methane analyzer, the temperature sensor, and a communication unit. The computing unit controls power distribution to the methane analyzer and the communication unit based on energy generated by a microbial fuel cell, receives data regarding the monitored methane concentration and ambient temperature, analyzes the received data to determine if the methane concentration exceeds a programmed threshold value, and activates the communication unit to transmit an alert message to a remote device upon detecting the monitored methane concentration exceeds the programmed threshold value.
[007] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide a method for monitoring methane concentration in a large wetland region using a methane concentration sensing system. The method includes controlling power distribution to a methane analyzer and a communication unit based on energy generated by a microbial fuel cell, monitoring methane concentration and ambient temperature using the methane analyzer and a temperature sensor respectively, analyzing monitored data to determine if the methane concentration exceeds a programmed threshold value, and transmitting an alert message to a remote device via the communication unit upon detecting the methane concentration exceeds the programmed threshold value.
[008] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a number of advantages depending on their particular configuration. First, embodiments of the present application may provide a methane concentration sensing system that is capable of continuous real-time monitoring for allowing early detection and response to methane leaks, thereby enhancing safety measures and environmental protection.
[009] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a methane concentration sensing system that facilitates remote monitoring and data transmission to enable timely decision-making and intervention by relevant authorities, which is particularly beneficial in remote wetland regions where access is limited.
[0010] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a methane concentration sensing system that triggers automated alert messages upon detecting elevated methane concentrations for ensuring swift response and mitigation measures to prevent potential hazards or environmental damage.
[0011] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a methane concentration sensing system that allows for customization of threshold values based on ambient temperature variations for optimizing sensitivity and accuracy of methane detection in diverse environmental conditions.
[0012] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a methane concentration sensing system that is powered by renewable energy sources such as microbial fuel cells and solar panels for promoting sustainability and reducing reliance on conventional power sources in remote wetland regions.
[0013] This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments. The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] The above and still further features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and wherein:
[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a methane concentration sensing system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the methane concentration sensing system, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of components of a computing unit of the methane concentration sensing system, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0018] FIG. 4 depicts a flowchart of a method for monitoring methane concentration in a large wetland region using the methane concentration sensing system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0019] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. Optional portions of the figures may be illustrated using dashed or dotted lines, unless the context of usage indicates otherwise.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0021] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising", "comprises”, and the like (which are synonymous with "including", "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of", “consists essentially of", and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of", "consists of”, the like.
[0022] As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a methane concentration sensing system 100 (hereinafter referred to as “the system 100”), according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system 100 may be configured to continuously monitor methane concentrations in the air within wetland regions, according to the embodiments of the present invention. The system 100 may further enable early detection of methane leaks for facilitating timely intervention and mitigation measures to prevent potential hazards or environmental damage. According to embodiments of the present invention, the system 100 integrates microbial fuel cell technology to ensure efficient and sustainable operation in the wetland region, that may be located remotely.
[0024] The system 100 may comprise a microbial fuel cell 102, a methane analyzer 104, a temperature sensor 106, a computing unit 108, a communication unit 110, and voltage inverter 112, and relay 114 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] In an embodiment of the present invention, the microbial fuel cell 102 may be configured to efficiently harness energy from microorganisms present in the wetland region by converting organic compounds directly into electrical energy. In an embodiment of the present invention, the microbial fuel cell 102 may comprise a water passage 102a for receiving water for facilitating microbial activity and generating electrical energy through bio-electrochemical reactions. This water passage 102a may serve a dual purpose of providing a medium for facilitating the microbial activity within the microbial fuel cell 102 and ensuring a continuous supply of water to support the bio-electrochemical reactions. As the microorganisms thrive in aqueous environments, the presence of water within the microbial fuel cell 102 may enhance their metabolic activity, thereby improving an efficiency of energy generation through bio-electrochemical processes.
[0026] In an embodiment of the present invention, the microbial fuel cell 102 may be adapted to efficiently capture and transfer electrons from an oxidation of organic matter by the microorganisms for continuous electricity generation. In an embodiment of the present invention, the microbial fuel cell 102 may be arranged in proximity to water sources within the wetland region for maximizing its access to organic matter and facilitating optimal energy production. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any location for arranging the microbial fuel cell 102, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0027] In an embodiment of the present invention, the microbial fuel cell 102 may comprise a singularity of fuel cell units, each unit contributing to overall energy production. Alternatively, the microbial fuel cell 102 may comprise a plurality of fuel cell units interconnected to increase energy output and system reliability.
[0028] In an embodiment of the present invention, the methane analyzer 104 may be configured to accurately detect and measure the methane concentrations in the air within the wetland region.
[0029] In a preferred exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the methane analyzer 104 may be employ a membrane technology for detecting the methane concentrations. The membrane technology may involve use of selective permeable membranes to isolate methane molecules from other gases in the air. The permeable membranes may be designed to allow only methane molecules to pass through by effectively isolating them from the surrounding gases.
[0030] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the methane analyzer 104 may be equipped with an infrared spectroscopy technology for real-time monitoring of the methane concentration with minimal interference from other gases. In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the methane analyzer 104 may utilize a laser-based detection technology. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any technology for the methane analyzer 104, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0031] In an embodiment of the present invention, the temperature sensor 106 may be integrated with the methane analyzer 104 for simultaneous monitoring of an ambient temperature. The temperature sensor 106 may be, but not limited to, a thermocouple, a Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD), and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the temperature sensor 106, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0032] In an embodiment of the present invention, the computing unit 108 may be in communication with the methane analyzer 104, the temperature sensor 106, and the communication unit 110. The computing unit 108 may be configured to control a power distribution to the methane analyzer 104 and the communication unit 110 based on the energy generated by the microbial fuel cell 102. The computing unit 108 may receive data regarding the monitored methane concentration from the methane analyzer 104 and the monitored ambient temperature from the temperature sensor 106. The computing unit 108 may further be configured to analyze the received data to determine if the monitored methane concentration exceeds a programmed threshold value. The computing unit 108 may activate the communication unit 110 to transmit an alert message to a remote device 202 (as shown in the FIG. 2) upon detecting the monitored methane concentration exceeds the programmed threshold value.
[0033] The computing unit 108 may comprise a processor (not shown) that may be configured to execute computer-executable instructions to generate an output relating to the system 100. According to embodiments of the present invention, the processor may be, but not limited to, a Programmable Logic Control (PLC) unit, a microprocessor, a development board, and so forth. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the processor of the computing unit 108 may be an Espressif 32 (ESP32). Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the processor including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. In an embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit 110 may facilitate communication between the computing unit 108 and a remote device 202. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit 110 may utilize a Long Range (LoRa) communication protocol. In another embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit 110 may utilize a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), a Bluetooth, a satellite communication, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the communication unit 110, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0034] In an embodiment of the present invention, the voltage inverter 112 may be adapted to harvest and convert the electrical energy generated by the microbial fuel cell 102. The voltage inverter 112 may be connected to the microbial fuel cell 102 and other power sources within the system 100. This connection may allow for efficient energy conversion for ensuring a continuous and stable power supply to the various components of the methane concentration sensing system 100. The voltage inverter 112 may enable a flow of current from the microbial fuel cell 102 to power the operation of the methane analyzer 104, temperature sensor 106, computing unit 108, and the communication unit 110. In an embodiment of the present invention, the relay 114 may be connected to act as a switch, controlling the flow of data or power within the methane concentration sensing system 100. The relay 114 may receive an actuation signal from the computing unit 108, and may enable the flow of the current to various components of the system 100.
[0035] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the methane concentration sensing system, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the methane analyzer 104 may comprise one or more sensing units 200a-200n (hereinafter singularly refer to as the sensing unit 200, and refer to as the sensing units 200, in plurality) for comprehensive detection of the methane concentration across different spatial locations within the wetland region. Each of the sensing unit 200 may be strategically positioned to cover specific areas of interest, enabling thorough monitoring of methane emissions and facilitating targeted intervention measures. In another embodiment of the present invention, the methane analyzer 104 may comprise a plurality of sensing units 200 interconnected to form a networked sensor array. This configuration may allow for distributed sensing across the wetland region.
[0036] In an embodiment of the present invention, the sensing units 200a-200n may be adapted to communicate with the computing unit 108 (as shown in the FIG. 1) using the communication unit 110. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit 110 comprises a gateway (not shown) that bridges between LoRa and Wi-Fi networks. In such an embodiment of the present invention, the computing unit 108 may situated remotely and adapted to receive the monitored concentration data using the long range communication protocol of the communication unit 110. Further, the communication unit 110 may be adapted to establish an internet connection for transmitting the alert message to the remote device 202 using a wireless fidelity (Wi-fi) based node of the communication unit 110.
[0037] In an embodiment of the present invention, the remote device 202 may be a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop, a desktop computer, or a cloud server capable of receiving and displaying alert messages transmitted by the communication unit 110. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the remote device 202, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0038] In another embodiment of the present invention, the computing unit 108 may also be situated close to the microbial fuel cell 102 and adapted to receive the monitored concentration data using a short span communication protocol of the communication unit 110.
[0039] FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of the computing unit 108 of the system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The computing unit 108 may comprise programming instructions in the form of programming modules such as a sensing module 300, a signal conversion module 302, an analysis module 304, and a transmission module 306.
[0040] In an embodiment of the present invention, the sensing module 300 may be responsible for receiving data regarding the methane concentration and the ambient temperature from the methane analyzer 104 and temperature sensor 106 respectively. This sensing module 300 may record the received data. The sensing module 300 may generate a conversion signal to actuate the signal conversion module 302.
[0041] In an embodiment of the present invention, the signal conversion module 302 may process the received data acquired by the sensing module 300 and may convert it into a suitable format for further analysis. In an embodiment of the present invention, the signal conversion module 302 of the computing unit 108 calibrates the received data regarding the monitored methane concentration based on variations in the monitored ambient temperature. This conversion ensures compatibility and accuracy of the data for subsequent processing. The signal conversion module 302 may generate an analysis signal to actuate the analysis module 304.
[0042] In an embodiment of the present invention, the analysis module 304 may analyze the processed data to determine if the methane concentration exceeds a programmed threshold value. The analysis module 304 may compare the processed data with the programmed threshold value using predefined algorithms and criteria to evaluate the methane concentration levels. Based on the analysis outcomes, the analysis module 304 may identify potential exceedances, such as instances where the methane concentration surpasses the programmed threshold value. Upon identifying the potential exceedances, the analysis module 304 may generate a transmission signal and actuate the transmission module.
[0043] In an embodiment of the present invention, the transmission module 306 may be responsible for transmitting the alert message to the remote device 202 via the communication unit 110 upon detecting that the methane concentration exceeds the programmed threshold value. This module facilitates timely communication of critical information to relevant stakeholders for appropriate action. In an embodiment of the present invention, the transmission module 306 may transmit the data regarding the methane concentration and the ambient temperature monitored in real-time to a cloud based system (not shown). In another embodiment of the present invention, the transmission module 306 may transmit the data regarding the methane concentration and the ambient temperature monitored in real-time to the remote device 202.
[0044] FIG. 4 depicts a flowchart of a method 400 for monitoring the methane concentration in the wetland region using the methane concentration sensing system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0045] At step 402, the system 100 may control power distribution to the methane analyzer 104 and the communication unit 110 based on the energy generated by the microbial fuel cell 102.
[0046] At step 404, the system 100 may monitor the methane concentration and the ambient temperature using the methane analyzer 104 and the temperature sensor 106, respectively.
[0047] At step 406, the system 100 may analyze the monitored data to determine if the methane concentration exceeds a programmed threshold value. If the threshold is exceeded, the system 100 may proceed to step 408. Otherwise, the system 100 may return to step 402.
[0048] At step 408, the system 100 may trigger the transmission of the alert message to the remote device 202 via the communication unit 110 upon detecting that the methane concentration exceeds the programmed threshold value.
[0049] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
[0050] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined in the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements within substantial differences from the literal languages of the claims. , Claims:CLAIMS
We Claim:
1. A methane concentration sensing system (100), characterized in that powered by a microbial fuel cell (102), the system (100) comprising:
a methane analyzer (104) for real-time monitoring of methane concentration in air;
a temperature sensor (106) integrated with the methane analyzer (104) for simultaneous monitoring of an ambient temperature;
a computing unit (108) in communication with the methane analyzer (104), the temperature sensor (106), and a communication unit (110), wherein the computing unit (108) is configured to:
control a power distribution to the methane analyzer (104) and the communication unit (110) based on an energy generated by the microbial fuel cell (102);
receive data regarding the monitored methane concentration from the methane analyzer (104) and the monitored ambient temperature from the temperature sensor (106);
analyze the received data to determine if the monitored methane concentration exceeds a programmed threshold value; and
activate the communication unit (110) to transmit an alert message to a remote device (202) upon detecting the monitored methane concentration exceeds the programmed threshold value.
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microbial fuel cell (102) is connected to a voltage inverter (112) that harvests and converts electrical energy.
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the communication unit (110) utilizes a Long Range (LoRa) communication protocol.
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microbial fuel cell (102) comprises a water passage (102a) for receiving water for facilitating microbial activity and generating electrical energy through bio-electrochemical reactions.
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the computing unit (108) is configured to adjust the programmed threshold value based on the monitored ambient temperature.
6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the computing unit (108) is selected from an Espressif 32 (ESP32).
7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the methane analyzer (104) employs a membrane technology for the methane detection.
8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the computing unit (108) is configured to calibrate the received data regarding the monitored methane concentration based on variations in the monitored ambient temperature.
9. A method (400) for monitoring methane concentration in a large wetland region using a methane concentration sensing system (100), comprising:
controlling power distribution to a methane analyzer (104) and a communication unit (110) based on energy generated by a microbial fuel cell (102);
monitoring a methane concentration and an ambient temperature using the methane analyzer (104) and a temperature sensor (106) respectively;
analyzing a monitored data to determine if the methane concentration exceeds a programmed threshold value; and
transmitting an alert message to a remote device (202) via the communication unit (110) upon detecting the methane concentration exceeds the programmed threshold value.
Date: May 20, 2024
Place: Noida

Dr. Keerti Gupta
Agent for the Applicant
(IN/PA-1529)