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 remediating blockages designed in a sewage.
Description of Related Art
[002] Sewer networks are fundamental components of urban infrastructure, serving as critical conduits for the efficient transportation and disposal of wastewater from residential, industrial, and commercial areas. These intricate systems of underground pipes and conduits are meticulously 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] Operating as a comprehensive and interconnected system, the sewer network collects wastewater from individual properties and directs it through a network of pipes to treatment facilities or designated discharge points. Key to the functionality of this network are manholes, strategically positioned access points throughout the system, facilitating essential functions such as remediation, inspection, and blockage detection.
[004] However, manhole blockages within these networks present a significant challenge, disrupting the seamless flow of wastewater and potentially leading to hazardous consequences, including flooding, environmental contamination, and health risks. The timely detection and efficient management of manhole blockages are, therefore, paramount to ensuring the proper functioning and longevity of the sewer network.
[005] There is thus a need for an advanced and improved system for remediating blockages that can overcome the limitations in a more efficient manner.
SUMMARY
An aspect of the present invention provides a system for remediating blockages. The system comprising: distributed agents configured to detect a blockage; and a controller in communication with the distributed agents, and a deployment unit. The controller is configured to: receive a real-time data of the detected blockage from the distributed agents; analyze a severity of the detected blockage using a machine learning algorithm; transmit a blockage detection signal based on the analyzed severity to the deployment unit; and actuate the performing agents of the deployment unit based on the transmitted blockage detection signal.
Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for remediating blockages. The method comprising steps of: receiving a real-time data of a detected blockage from the distributed agents; analyzing a severity of the detected blockage using a machine learning algorithm; transmitting a blockage detection signal based on the analyzed severity to the deployment unit; and actuate the performing agents of the deployment unit based on the transmitted blockage detection signal for remediating the blockage.
[006] 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 remediating blockages.
[007] Next, the embodiments of the present application may provide a system for intelligent and adaptive management of sewer network operations.
[008] Next, the embodiments of the present application may provide real-time monitoring and analysis of flow dynamics and pressure variations within the sewer network.
[009] Next, the embodiments of the present application may provide a user-friendly interface for authorities and remediation personnel to access the data and insights generated by the system.
[0010] Next, the embodiments of the present application may offer seamless integration with an existing sewer network.
[0011] 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
[0012] 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:
[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system for remediating blockages, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a controller of the system for remediating the blockages, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method for detecting the manhole blockages using the system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] 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
[0017] 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.
[0018] 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.
[0019] 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.
[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system 100 for remediating 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.
[0021] 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, a deployment unit 108, and performing agents 110a-110m (hereinafter individually referred to as the performing agent 110, and collectively referred to as the performing agents 110). 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.
[0022] 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 equipped with sensors, including but not limited to optical cameras (not shown), sonar sensors (not shown), gas detectors (not shown), flow sensors (not shown), and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any sensors as the distributed agents 102, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0023] These sensors may enable the distributed agents 102 to collect real-time data and detect blockages or irregularities in the sewer network. The distributed agents 102 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with each other and with the controller 106 using the communication network 104.
[0024] 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.
[0025] 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.
[0026] 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.
[0027] In further embodiments of the present invention, the controller may be configured to utilize an augmented reality technology. In such an embodiment of the present invention, the augmented reality technology may provide a real-time visualization and guidance to a remediation personnel for operating the performing agents 110 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.
[0028] 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.
[0029] In an embodiment of the present invention, the deployment unit 108 may be configured to initiate appropriate remediation actions based on the severity score received from the controller 106. Upon receiving a remediation-required signal, the deployment unit 108 may take decisive actions to address the detected blockage within the sewer network. 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.
[0030] In an embodiment of the performing agents 110 may be arranged in proximity to the sewer network and may be operated autonomously by the controller 106. In another embodiment of the present invention, the performing agents may be operated with a supervision of the remediation personnel. In an embodiment of the present invention, the performing agents 110 may be, but not limited to a cutter, a chemical dispenser, a robotic arm, a water jet, and so forth. The performing agents 110 may be configured to autonomously navigate through the sewer network. The performing agents 110 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with each other and with the controller 106 using the communication network 104.
[0031] 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.
[0032] 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.
[0033] 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. Subsequently, upon analyzing the severity of the detected blockage, the data analyzing module may transmit a transmission detection signal to the transmission module 204.
[0034] 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 remediation-required signal to the deployment module 206 for appropriate remediation action.
[0035] In an embodiment of the present invention, the deployment module 206 may be configured to receive the remediation required signal from the transmission module 204. The deployment module 206 may then initiate the remediation process for the detected blockage within the sewer network. Moreover, the deployment module 206 may actuate the performing agents 110 for remediating the detected blockage. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, if the analyzed severity is of a low level, the deployment module 206 may instruct the performing agents 110 to initiate the remediation process. This may involve utilizing the cutter for physical blockage removal, activating the chemical dispenser for targeted dissolution, or employing the water jet for forceful obstruction clearance. The selection and combination of performing agents 110 may be based on the severity assessment to optimize the remediation process and minimize disruption to the sewer network. In scenarios where the severity assessment indicates a moderate to high level of blockage, the deployment module 206 may adjust a remediation approach accordingly. The performing agents 110 may be directed to collaborate in a synchronized manner, employing a combination of their capabilities to effectively address the detected blockage. For instance, the deployment module 206 may coordinate actions of the cutter to break down the detected blockage, followed by a precise application of a chemical to dissolve remaining residues. Subsequently, the water jet may be deployed to ensure a complete clearance and restoration of normal flow within the sewer network.
[0036] Furthermore, in situations of critical blockages where conventional remediation approaches may prove insufficient, the deployment module 206, may decide to deploy additional resources or the performing agents 110 specialized for the critical blockages. These specialized performing agents 110 may be equipped with advanced tools and technologies, such as high-intensity laser cutters or ultra-high-pressure water jets, to tackle exceptionally stubborn blockages with a high degree of precision and efficiency. The adaptive nature of the deployment module 206 may allow for a flexible response tailored to the specific severity of the detected blockage for ensuring swift and effective resolution while mitigating any potential risks to the sewer network.
[0037] After the remediation process, the deployment module 206 may generate a task status signal and may transmit to the task status determination module 208.
[0038] The task status determination module 208 may activated upon receiving the task status signal from the deployment module 206. 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 remediation 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 remediation operation.
[0039] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method 300 for remediating blockages, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0040] At step 302, the system 100 may receive the real-time data of the detected blockage from the distributed agents 102;
[0041] At step 304, the system 100 may analyzing the severity of the detected blockage using the machine learning algorithm.
[0042] At step 306, the system 100 may transmit the blockage detection signal based on the analyzed severity to the deployment unit 108.
[0043] At step 308, the system 100 may actuate the performing agents 110 of the deployment unit 108 based on the transmitted blockage detection signal for remediating the blockage.
[0044] At step 310, the system 100 may a task completion by receiving the feedback signal after the remediation of the detected blockage from the deployment unit 108. If the feedback signal is received, the system 100 may proceed to step 312. Else, the system 100 may return to the step 308.
[0045] At step 312, the system 100 may mark the task completed.
[0046] 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.
[0047] 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. , C , Claims:CLAIMS
I/We Claim:
1. A system (100) for remediating blockages, the system comprising:
distributed agents (102a-102n) configured to detect a blockage; 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 a real-time data of the detected blockage from the distributed agents (102a-102n);
analyze a severity of the detected blockage using a machine learning algorithm;
transmit a blockage detection signal based on the analyzed severity to the deployment unit (108); and
actuate the performing agents (110a-110m) of the deployment unit (108) based on the transmitted blockage detection signal.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the performing agents (110a-110m) are selected from a cutter, a chemical dispenser, a robotic arm, a water jet, or a combination thereof.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the performing agents (110a-110m) are configured to autonomously navigate through a sewer network.
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the performing agents (110a-110m) 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 a real-time visualization and guidance for a remediation personnel for operating the performing agents (110a-110m) 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. A method for remediating blockages using a system (100), the method comprising steps of:
receiving a real-time data of a detected blockage from the distributed agents (102a-102n);
analyzing a severity of the detected blockage using a machine learning algorithm;
transmitting a blockage detection signal based on the analyzed severity to the deployment unit (108); and
actuating the performing agents (110a-110m) of the deployment unit (108) based on the transmitted blockage detection signal for remediating the blockage.
9. The method as claimed in claim 8, comprising a step of checking a task completion by receiving a feedback signal after the remediation of the detected blockage from the deployment unit (108).
10. The method as claimed in claim 9, comprising a step of marking a task completed upon receiving the feedback signal from the deployment unit (108).

Date: October 26, 2023
Place: Noida

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