Description:BACKGROUND
Field of Invention
[001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a field of sewer network monitoring and particularly to an Internet of things-based system for detecting manhole blockages designed in a sewage.
Description of Related Art
[002] Sewer networks form vital lifelines of urban infrastructure, serving as conduits for efficient transport and disposal of wastewater from residences, industries, and commercial establishments. These intricate networks of underground pipes and conduits are designed to ensure the safe and proper disposal of sewage and stormwater, promoting public health, environmental sustainability, and the overall well-being of communities.
[003] The sewer network operates as a comprehensive and interconnected system, collecting wastewater from individual properties and channeling it through a series of pipes to treatment facilities or designated discharge points. Integral to this network are manholes, access points strategically positioned throughout the system, facilitating maintenance, inspection, and blockage detection.
[004] However, manhole blockages within these networks pose a significant challenge, disrupting the seamless flow of wastewater and potentially leading to hazardous consequences such as flooding, environmental contamination, and health risks. The timely detection and efficient management of manhole blockages are, therefore, paramount to the proper functioning and longevity of the sewer network.
[005] There is thus a need for an advanced and improved system for detecting manhole blockages that can overcome the limitations in a more efficient manner.
SUMMARY
[006] An aspect of the present invention provides a system for detecting manhole blockages. The system comprising: distributed agents configured to detect a blockage. The distributed agents are configured to monitor real-time data selected from flow rates, fluid characteristics, obstructions, or a combination thereof. The system further comprising: a controller in communication with the distributed agents, and a deployment unit, characterised in that the controller is configured to: receive the detected blockage from the distributed agents; analyze a severity of the detected blockage using a machine learning algorithm; determine a severity score for maintenance of the detected blockage based on the analyzed severity; and transmit a blockage detection signal along with determined severity score to the deployment unit.
[007] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for detecting manhole blockages, the method comprising steps of: transmitting real-time data collected by distributed agents to a controller; analyzing the received data to detect the presence of a blockage in a sewer network; utilizing a machine learning algorithm to determine the severity of the detected blockage; determining a severity score for maintenance of the detected blockage based on the analyzed severity; and transmitting a blockage detection signal along with the determined severity score to a deployment unit for the maintenance.
[008] The system of the present invention may provide a number of advantages depending on its particular configuration. In one embodiment, the present application may provide a system and method for detecting manhole blockages.
[009] Next, the embodiments of the present application may provide a system for intelligent and adaptive management of sewer network operations.
[0010] Next, the embodiments of the present application may provide real-time monitoring and analysis of flow dynamics and pressure variations within the sewer network.
[0011] Next, the embodiments of the present application may provide a user-friendly interface for authorities and maintenance personnel to access the data and insights generated by the system.
[0012] Next, the embodiments of the present application may offer seamless integration with an existing sewer network.
[0013] The preceding is a simplified summary to provide an understanding of some aspects of the present invention. 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 system for detecting manhole blockages, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a controller of the system for detecting manhole blockages, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method for detecting the manhole blockages using the system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] 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
[0019] 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.
[0020] 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.
[0021] 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.
[0022] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system 100 for detecting manhole blockages, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 may be designed to enhance safety and functionality in various environments using an Internet of things (IoT) based technology. According to embodiments of the present invention, the system 100 may be installed in locations such as, but not limited to, urban roads, highways, industrial areas, residential neighborhoods, and other relevant areas. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any location for the installment of the system 100, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0023] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 may comprise non-limiting elements that may be, but not limited to, distributed agents 102a-102n (hereinafter individually referred to as the distributed agent 102, and collectively referred to as the distributed agents 102), a communication network 104, a controller 106, and a deployment unit 108. These components may work collaboratively to provide an efficient and automated solution for the detection and mitigation of manhole blockages, ensuring the proper functioning of a sewer network and preventing potential hazards.
[0024] In an embodiment of the present invention, the distributed agents 102 may be strategically positioned to detect a blockage within the sewer system. In an embodiment of the present invention, the distributed agents 102 may be configured to autonomously navigate through the sewer network. These agents may be placed on surfaces of the manholes or other strategic locations within the sewer network. The placement and configuration of distributed agents 102 are designed to maximize their ability to accurately detect blockages and other potential issues within the sewer network. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any surface for the placement of the distributed agents 102, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0025] In another embodiment of the present invention, the distributed agents 102 may be equipped with sensors, including but not limited to optical cameras (not shown), sonar sensors (not shown), gas detectors (not shown), and flow sensors (not shown). These sensors may enable the distributed agents 102 to collect real-time data and detect blockages or irregularities in the sewer system. The integration of these sensors enhances the accuracy and efficiency of the blockage detection process, allowing for swift and precise responses to potential issues. The distributed agents 102 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with each other and with the controller 106 using the communication network 104.
[0026] The communication network 104 may be a wireless network, in an embodiment of the present invention. According to embodiments of the present invention, the wireless network may be enabled by means such as, but not limited to, a Wi-Fi communication module, a Bluetooth communication module, a millimeter waves communication module, an Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) communication module, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the means that may enable the wireless network, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0027] The communication network 104 may be a wired network, in an embodiment of the present invention. According to embodiments of the present invention, the wired network may be enabled by means such as, but not limited to, a twisted pair cable, a co-axial cable, an Ethernet cable, a modem, a router, a switch, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the means that may enable the wired communication network, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0028] The controller 106 may be configured to execute computer-executable instructions stored in the memory unit (not shown) to generate an output relating to the system 100. In an embodiment of the present invention, the controller 106 may be connected to the distributed agents 102. The controller 106 may be configured to process the data received from the distributed agents 102 and analyze it to determine the presence and severity of blockages or anomalies within the sewer system. The controller may comprise a blockchain-based data storage mechanism for ensuring an integrity and security of a historical data and the real-time data. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the controller 106 may be configured to adjust operational parameters based on the analyzed data, ensuring an optimal functioning of the system. In further embodiments of the present invention, the controller may be configured to utilize an augmented reality technology to provide a real-time visualization and guidance to a maintenance personnel during a remediation process using a visualization data from the distributed agents 102. The visualization data may include, referring but not limited to, a combination of live video feeds, three-dimensional (3D) models of the sewer network, real-time sensor readings, and other relevant data collected by the distributed agents. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any visualization data including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0029] According to embodiments of the present invention, the memory unit may be, but not limited to, a Random-Access Memory (RAM), a Static Random-Access Memory (SRAM), a Dynamic Random-Access Memory (DRAM), a Read-Only Memory (ROM), an Erasable Programmable Read-only Memory (EPROM), an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-only Memory (EEPROM), a NAND Flash, a Secure Digital (SD) memory, a cache memory, a Hard Disk Drive (HDD), a Solid-State Drive (SSD), and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the memory unit, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. According to embodiments of the present invention, the controller 106 may be, but not limited to, a Programmable Logic Control (PLC) unit, a microprocessor, a development board, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the controller 106 including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. In an embodiment of the present invention, components of the controller 106 may be explained in conjunction with FIG. 2.
[0030] In an embodiment of the present invention, the deployment unit 108 may be configured to initiate appropriate maintenance actions based on the severity score received from the controller 106. Upon receiving a maintenance-required signal from the transmission module 204, the deployment unit 108 may take decisive actions to address the detected blockage within the sewer network. The deployment unit 108 may enable the deployment of specialized staff or apparatus to maintain the affected area within the sewer network. This may include dispatching maintenance teams equipped with suitable tools and equipment or deploying robotic devices specifically designed for blockage remediation.
[0031] Additionally, the deployment unit 108 may transmit the blockage detection signal and severity score to a central monitoring center 110 for analysis and immediate action when the severity score exceeds a threshold score. The deployment unit 108 may utilize a communication medium (not shown) that may be, but not limited to, a radio frequency (RF) transmission, a Bluetooth, a wireless communication protocol, to ensure that warning signals may be reliably and timely delivered to the vehicle. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any type of the communication medium including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0032] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of the controller 106 of the system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The controller 106 may comprise the computer-executable instructions in the form of programming modules that may be, but not limited to, a data receiving module 200, a data analyzing module 202, a transmission module 204, a deployment module 206, and a task status determination module 208.
[0033] In an embodiment of the present invention, the data receiving module 200 may be configured to receive the real-time data collected by distributed agents 102 in the sewer network.
[0034] The data receiving module 200 may transmit a detection signal to the data analyzing module 202. In an embodiment of the present invention, the data analyzing module 202 may be configured to be activated upon receipt of the detection signal from the data receiving module 200. The data analyzing module 202 may analyze the received data to detect the presence of a blockage in the sewer network. Upon analysis, if a blockage is detected, the data analyzing module may utilize a machine learning algorithm to determine the severity of the detected blockage.
[0035] Additionally, the data analyzing module 202 may determine a severity score for maintenance of the detected blockage based on the analyzed severity. To calculate the severity score, the machine learning algorithm may take into account a multitude of factors, including but not limited to an extent of the blockage, a rate of flow disruption, a historical data regarding similar blockages, and a potential impact on the surrounding environment and infrastructure, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any factors for analyzing the severity score including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. The machine learning algorithm may be trained to continuously learn from the historical data and the real-time data for analyzing the severity of the detected blockage. The calculated severity score may reflect an urgency or criticality of addressing the detected blockage. Subsequently, upon analyzing the severity and determining the severity score, the data analyzing module may transmit a transmission detection signal to the transmission module 204.
[0036] In an embodiment of the present invention, the transmission module 204 may be configured to be activated upon receipt of the transmission detection signal. The transmission module 204 may be configured to transmit a maintenance required signal to the deployment module 206 for appropriate maintenance action.
[0037] In an embodiment of the present invention, the deployment module 206 may be configured to receive the maintenance required signal from the transmission module 204. The deployment module 206 may then initiate the maintenance process for the detected blockage within the sewer network. Moreover, the deployment module 206 may transmit the blockage detection signal and severity score to the central monitoring center 110 for analysis and immediate action when the severity score exceeds a threshold score.
[0038] In an embodiment of the present invention, If the severity score exceeds the threshold score, indicating a critical blockage, the central monitoring center 110 may initiate an immediate response plan. This plan may include, but not limited to, alerting designated maintenance teams, dispatching emergency response units, reconfiguring traffic signals to prevent potential traffic congestion around the affected sewer network, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any plan upon detecting the critical blockage including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies. This proactive step may ensure that critical blockages are swiftly attended to, minimizing potential hazards and disruptions in the sewer network.
[0039] After the remediation process, the deployment module 206 may generate a task status signal and may transmit to the task status determination module 208.
[0040] In an embodiment of the present invention, the task status determination module 208 may be configured to check task completion by receiving a feedback signal after maintenance of the detected blockage from the deployment module 206 and the real-time data from the distributed agents 102. This feedback signal may provide information about the success and completion of the maintenance operation.
[0041] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method 300 for detecting manhole blockages, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0042] At step 302, the system 100 may transmit the real-time data collected by the distributed agents 102 to the controller 106.
[0043] At step 304, the system 100 may analyze the received data to detect the presence of the blockage in the sewer network using the machine learning algorithm.
[0044] At step 306, the system 100 may determine the severity score for maintenance of the detected blockage based on the analyzed severity.
[0045] At step 308, the system 100 may transmit the blockage detection signal along with the determined severity score to the deployment unit 108 for the maintenance.
[0046] At step 310, the system 100 may check task completion by receiving a feedback signal after maintenance of the detected blockage from the deployment unit 108 and the real-time data from the distributed agents 102. If the feedback signal after maintenance of the detected blockage from the deployment unit 108 is received and the real-time data from the distributed agents 102 detects the absence of the blockage, the system 100 may proceed to the step 312. Else, the system 100 may return to step 308.
[0047] At step 312, the system 100 may mark the task completed for the detected blockage in the sewer network.
[0048] Embodiments of the invention are described above with reference to block diagrams and schematic illustrations of methods and systems according to embodiments of the invention. 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.
[0049] 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
I/We Claim:
1. A system (100) for detecting manhole blockages, the system comprising:
distributed agents (102a-102n) configured to detect a blockage, wherein the distributed agents (102a-102n) are configured to monitor real-time data selected from flow rates, fluid characteristics, obstructions, or a combination thereof; and
a controller (106) in communication with the distributed agents (102a-102n), and a deployment unit (108), characterised in that the controller (106) is configured to:
receive the detected blockage from the distributed agents (102a-102n);
analyze a severity of the detected blockage using a machine learning algorithm;
determine a severity score for maintenance of the detected blockage based on the analyzed severity; and
transmit a blockage detection signal along with the determined severity score to the deployment unit (108).
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the distributed agents are selected from optical cameras, sonar sensors, gas detectors, flow sensors, or a combination thereof.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the distributed agents (102a-102n) are configured to autonomously navigate through a sewer network.
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the distributed agents (102a-102n) are configured to communicate wirelessly with each other and with the controller (106) using a communication network (104).
5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the machine learning algorithm is trained to continuously learn from a historical data and the real-time data for analyzing the severity of the detected blockage.
6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controller (106) is configured to utilize an augmented reality technology to provide real-time visualization and guidance for a maintenance personnel during a remediation process.
7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controller (106) comprises a blockchain-based data storage mechanism ensuring an integrity and security of a historical data and the real-time data.
8. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the deployment unit (108) transmits the blockage detection signal and severity score to a central monitoring center (110) for analysis and immediate action when the severity score exceeds a threshold score.
9. A method for detecting manhole blockages using a system (100), the method comprising steps of:
transmitting real-time data collected by distributed agents (102a-102n) to a controller (106);
analyzing the received data to detect the presence of a blockage in a sewer network utilizing a machine learning algorithm;
determining a severity score for maintenance of the detected blockage based on the analyzed severity; and
transmitting a blockage detection signal along with the determined severity score to a deployment unit (108) for the maintenance.
10. The method as claimed in claim 9, comprising a step of checking a task completion by receiving a feedback signal after the maintenance of the detected blockage from the deployment unit (108) and the real-time data from the distributed agents (102a-102n).

Date: October 26, 2023
Place: Noida

Nainsi Rastogi
Patent Agent (IN/PA-2372)
Agent for the Applicant