DESC:
FORM 2
THE PATENT ACT 1970 (as amended)
(39 of 1970)
&
The Patents Rules, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10 and rule 13)

1. TITLE OF THE INVENTION

“WATER QUALITY MONITORING APPARATUS FOR AQUACULTURE”

2. APPLICANT(S):
a) Name: TECHDNA TECHNOLOGIES PRIVATE LIMITED
b)Nationality: Indian
c) Address: Flat No: 504, Krishna Apartments, MIG 192 - 193, Rd Nr. 1, Phase 1, KPHB Colony, Kukatpally, Hyderabad - 500085, Telangana, India.

3. PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION

The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner it is to be performed.

4. DESCRIPTION
Technical Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a technical field of aquaculture and automatic water quality monitoring and control system.

Background of the Invention

With the rapid development of aquaculture, the proportion of aquaculture in the aquaculture industry continues to increase, due to the continuous expansion of market demand, the density of aquaculture farming is also increasing, especially in Andhra Pradesh and in all other states of southern India. Indian shrimp production is estimated to increase by 10% in 2018. It said Indian shrimp exports to the US rose by 39% to touch 2,14,400 tons in 2017 and the demand is expected to remain robust. The decrease in the anti-dumping tariff on Indian shrimp and its increased market acceptance led to a significant increase in shrimp supply from India and the average wholesale price of Indian shell-on vannamei was 6-10% higher than the Ecuadorian product.

According to trade sources, Indian aquaculture production is estimated to touch a record 7 lakh tons during the current fiscal and reach 1 million tons by 2020. However, entry of new players and countries in the supply chain has led to a glut in the market with shrimp prices in free fall. Some of the Indian farmers have not even seeded their farms after incurring huge losses in the first quarter harvest.

According to incomplete statistics the global production of farmed shrimp in 2017 was estimated between 2.9–3.5 million tons. Nearly 75-80% of the production originated in Asia-Pacific., so the future breeding density per unit area will continue to increase.

In this scenario, water quality monitoring becomes a critical issue about water pollution. Water Quality Monitoring has a big influence on the aquaculture management, waste water treatment, drinking water and some other applications. It’s recommended that the water quality monitoring systems should detect pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, temperature, ORP (Oxidation-Reduction Potential), BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand), Flow and etc. It’s also recommended that these devices detect some important electrochemical parameters like Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl2, Cl-, NO3-, NH3+, CO2/CO32-, F-, BF4-, K+, Na+. The water quality monitoring system should guarantee the accuracy, security and reliability.

The management of water quality is of primary consideration particularly in ponds with higher stocking rates. Degradation of water quality is detrimental to shrimp growth and survival. Good quality water is usually defined as the fitness or suitability of the water for survival and growth of shrimp. Therefore, dissolved oxygen water quality, PH value, temperature, nitrogen content and other state testing is particularly important.

The traditional water quality monitoring is done by sampling and analysis at testing centers sometimes far off from the ponds. There are even installed monitoring points in ponds, where these monitoring points do not work over the time. The water quality sensor directly installed into ponds, can easily be contaminated with impurities or plants, and difficult to clean or maintain these sensors in water. Placement and distance of these sensors is also limited and needs to be improved. In these, there are many sensor issues, such as the probe oxidization, forming of algae, clogging, scales formation and degradation, which will seriously affect the accuracy and service life of the sensor.

The existing systems due to the lack of comprehensive environmental analysis, poor in installation techniques and due to their high costs of investment led to discounting by farmers.

Brief Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention, a water quality monitoring apparatus is disclosed. The pond side water quality monitoring apparatus, comprising a sampling tank with an opening on top and a cover. The sampling tank has an inlet pipe for feeding a regulated flow of water that is to be tested and an outlet pipe from bottom of the sampling tank for draining out the excess and used sampled water.

In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the sampling tank further, comprises plurality of storage/calibration solution cup holders B, test sample cup holders A and probes for testing a plurality of physical and chemical properties of the sampled water. In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the probes are handled by a guide system controlled by an electromechanical sub system;

In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a water pump for drawing water for sampling. The water pump for drawing water samples relates to plurality of pipes via valves and flow regulators to draw water for sampling from different points of a pond through multi stage filters.

In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a module for recording a plurality of chemical and physical parameters; wherein, the module comprises a plurality of probes connected with mechanized valves arranged in the sampling tank from top.

In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a processing and recording mean of the module is attached to a rear side of the sampling tank comprises an electronic circuit board and a memory for processing recorded water quality parameters.

In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a power management module with a solar module to feed an input power to the whole of the apparatus. In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a data transmission sub module for transmitting recorded said chemical and physical parameters wirelessly to a user using a communicating means; and wherein, the communication means transmits the processed data to a remote server for analytics, and for further instructing a plurality of external devices.

In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus wherein each probe arranged in the sampling tank is for measuring at least one chemical and/or a physical parameter of water being fed.

In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus wherein the probes are autonomously calibrated by use of storage/calibration solution cup holders, wherein the cup holders hold storage solutions like phosphonium (pH4) buffer solution for alkalinity (pH) probe, Zero Dissolved Oxygen (DO) solution for DO probe and Oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) buffer solution for ORP test probe.

In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus wherein the sampling tank comprises of pH, DO, ORP or the like electrolyte solution in small tanks to refill the storage/calibration solution cup holders B to maintain the probes in their pristine state.

In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus wherein the probes after calibration are placed in the designated test sample cup holder, into which the water sample is pumped, and at least one designated test is carried out.

In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus wherein the designated tests are conducted to identify one or more chemical and/or physical parameters like temperature, pH, salinity, conductivity, total dissolved solids, suspended solids, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, oxidation reduction potential, hardness and the like.

In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus wherein at least one sensor is used to monitor insufficient electrolyte solution (pH, DO, ORP or the like), membrane permeability degradation in case of DO probe and Glass bulb sensitivity in case pH probe.

In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus wherein the probes are operated over a guide channel and are inserted into the probe cup holders.

In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus wherein the data transmission sub module transmits temperature, pH, salinity, conductivity, total dissolved solids, suspended solids, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, oxidation reduction potential, hardness and the like by an user via plurality of messages through SMS, Voice call, and/or push notifications on a mobile device.

In accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the apparatus wherein said power management module comprises a battery chargeable by a solar panel.

According to a second aspect of the invention, a method of employing a pond side water quality monitoring apparatus is disclosed. The method comprises steps of staging, a sampling tank aloft at a suitable height to a vertical stand; staging, an enclosure with electronic circuit board to a rear side of the sampling tank; staging, a rigid base that supports the vertical stand and adopts a sample water drawing pump to draw water for sampling from different points of a pond.

In accordance with the second aspect of the invention, the method further comprises a step of arranging, an inlet pipe to one side of the sampling tank for allowing the sample water drawn from the pump with a flow regulator.

In accordance with the second aspect of the invention, the method further comprises a step of arranging, an outlet pipe from bottom of the sampling tank for draining out the sample water used for testing.

In accordance with the second aspect of the invention, the method further comprises a step of arranging, a module for recording a plurality of chemical and physical parameters; wherein, the module comprises a plurality of probes connected with mechanized valves arranged in the sampling tank from top.

In accordance with the second aspect of the invention, the method further comprises a step of attaching, the processing and recording means of the module in the enclosure along with the circuit board; wherein, processing the recorded water quality parameters, positioning and operation of the probes are being guided.

In accordance with the second aspect of the invention, the method further comprises a step of staging, a power management module to regulate an input power to the whole of the apparatus.

In accordance with the second aspect of the invention, the method further comprises a step of arranging, a data transmission sub module for transmitting recorded said chemical and physical parameters wirelessly to a user using a communicating means; wherein, the communication means transmits the processed data to a remote server for analytics, and for further instructing a plurality of external devices; and the water quality monitoring apparatus is adopted to be placed on a crest of a pond.

According to a third aspect of the invention, a water quality monitoring method using a water quality monitoring apparatus, wherein the method comprises steps of admitting, pond water into a sampling tank drawn using a pump from different places of a pond with a flow regulator; recording a plurality of chemical and physical parameters of the sampled water; wherein, the module comprises a plurality of probes connected with mechanized valves arranged in the sampling tank from top.

In accordance with the third aspect of the invention, the method further comprises a step of letting, the excess sample water out through an outlet pipe from bottom of the sampling tank.

In accordance with the third aspect of the invention, the method further comprises a step of allowing, an electronic module with a circuit board, a processor and a memory, guide the positioning and operation of the probes over a guide channel with a motor into designated probe cup holders; wherein, each of the probes are autonomously calibrated by use of storage/ calibration solution pumped alternatively into the respective cup holders after a sampling is done.

In accordance with the third aspect of the invention, the method further comprises a step of allowing, a data transmission sub module for transmitting recorded said chemical and physical parameters wirelessly to a user using a communicating means; wherein, the communication means transmits the processed data to a remote server for analytics, and for further instructing a plurality of external devices.

In accordance with the third aspect of the invention, the said water quality monitoring method is adopted to check the water quality by placing the said apparatus on a crest of a pond.

In accordance with the third aspect of the invention, the said water quality monitoring method is adopted wherein the probes are autonomously calibrated by use of a plurality of storage/calibration solution cup holders, wherein the cup holders holds storage solutions like phosphonium (pH4) buffer solution for alkalinity (pH) probe, Zero Dissolved Oxygen (DO) solution for DO probe and Oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) buffer solution for ORP test probe.

In accordance with the third aspect of the invention, wherein the sampling tank comprises of pH, DO, ORP or the like electrolyte solution in small tanks to refill the storage/calibration solution cup holders B to maintain the probes in their pristine state.

In accordance with the third aspect of the invention, wherein the probes after calibration are autonomously placed in the designated test sample cup holders A into which the water sample is pumped, and at least one designated test is carried out.

In accordance with the third aspect of the invention, wherein a plurality of sensors is used to monitor insufficient electrolyte solution (pH, DO, ORP or the like), membrane permeability degradation in case of DO probe and Glass bulb sensitivity in case pH probe.

In accordance with the third aspect of the invention, wherein the designated tests are conducted to identify one or more chemical and/or physical parameters like temperature, pH, salinity, conductivity, total dissolved solids, suspended solids, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, oxidation reduction potential, hardness and the like.

In accordance with the third aspect of the invention, wherein the data transmission sub module transmits temperature, pH, salinity, conductivity, total dissolved solids, suspended solids, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, oxidation reduction potential, hardness and the like by a user via plurality of messages through SMS, Voice call, and/or push notifications on a mobile device.
The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in several ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for description and should not be regarded as limiting.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Various objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals have been used to designate like elements, and wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view depicting the autonomous water quality management apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a multi-layer filter that draws water for sampling from multiple points of a pond of the water quality management apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 3A, 3B & 3C illustrates a plurality of probes connected with mechanized valves arranged in the sampling tank from top of the water quality management apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a guide mechanism and plurality of probe holders of the water quality management apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 5A illustrates a casing that consists of data transmission sub module which will comprise an electronic circuit board and a memory for processing recorded water quality parameters for transmitting wirelessly to a user using a communicating means of the water quality management apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 5B illustrates a block diagram of data transmission sub module which will comprise an electronic circuit board and a memory for processing recorded water quality parameters for transmitting wirelessly to a user.

Detailed Description of the Invention

Reference will now be made in detail to the embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the invention will be described in conjunction with the preferred embodiments, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit the invention to these embodiments. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalents, which may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Furthermore, in the following detailed description of the present invention, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well known methods, procedures, components, and circuits have not been described in detail as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the present invention.

Embodiments of the present invention are directed towards system that does pond water quality management autonomously.

According to a first exemplary embodiment of the invention, a water quality monitoring apparatus is disclosed. Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a front view 100 depicting the autonomous water quality management system according to the present invention. The pond side water quality monitoring apparatus 100, comprising a sampling tank 110 with an opening on top and a cover 112. The sampling tank 110 has an inlet pipe 114 for feeding a regulated flow 116 116 of water that is to be tested and an outlet pipe 118 from bottom of the sampling tank 110 for draining out the excess and used sampled water.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the sampling tank 110 further, comprises plurality of storage/calibration solution cup holders B, test sample cup holders A and probes for testing a plurality of physical and chemical properties of the sampled water. In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the probes are handled by a guide system controlled by an electromechanical sub system;

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a water pump 120 for drawing water for sampling. A plurality of pipes 122 are connected to the water pump via valves and flow regulators 124 to draw water for sampling from different points of a pond through multi stage filters 126.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a module 150 for recording a plurality of chemical and physical parameters; wherein, the module 150 comprises a plurality of probes connected with mechanized valves 154 (not shown) arranged in the sampling tank 110 from top.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a processing and recording mean 162 of the module is attached to a rear side of the sampling tank 110 comprises an electronic circuit board 164 (not shown) and a memory for processing recorded water quality parameters.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a power management module with a solar module 170 to feed an input power to the whole of the apparatus. In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus further comprises a data transmission sub module for transmitting recorded said chemical and physical parameters wirelessly to a user using a communicating means; and wherein, the communication means transmits the processed data to a remote server for analytics, and for further instructing a plurality of external devices.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus wherein each probe arranged in the sampling tank 110 is for measuring at least one chemical and/or a physical parameter of water being fed.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2 illustrates a multi-layer filter 200 that draws water for sampling from multiple points of a pond of the water quality management apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is explained with cross references to FIG.1. As shown in FIG. 2, the cylindrical frame 236 is made with stainless steel material. The cylindrical frame is open to sides to allow the passage of water through the sides. The cylindrical frame 236 is surrounded by a mesh 238. The mesh 238 acts as a filter and will not allow plants, weeds, etc. into the cylindrical frame 236.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the top portion 228 of the cylindrical frame 236 is joined to the bottom part 240 with help of stainless-steel rods 234. The top portion of the cylindrical frame 236 has an opening for inserting the pipe 242. The pipe 242 is made of a plastic material. A foot valve 230 is attached at the bottom of the pipe 242. The foot valve is surrounded by a foot valve filter 232. The foot valve filter 232 stops extraneous particles from entering into the plastic pipes 242. The water to be tested is passed through the foot valve 230 to the nylon tank 354 (not shown in FIG. 2) via the plastic pipe 242 and the pump 120 (not shown in FIG. 2). The cylindrical frame 236 is immersed in the pond 144 (not shown in FIG. 2).

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 3A-3C is explained with cross references to FIG.1. As shown in FIG. 3A, 3B & 3C illustrates a plurality of probes 356 connected with mechanized valves arranged in the sampling tank from top of the water quality management apparatus according to the present invention. As shown in Figs 3A, 3B & 3C the sample water flows through the solenoid valve 352 and is distributed into three nylon tanks 354. A probe 356 is dipped in each of the nylon tanks 354 from the top side of the nylon tank. Sample water enters into the nylon tank 354 from the top side through a pipe 358. The probe 356 is connected to the power socket through an electrical wire 360. When the nylon tank 354 is filled with sample water, the probe 356 is immersed in the sample water and the probe 356 determines the voltage in millivolts.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the voltage in millivolts obtained by each of the probe 356 is recorded and is used for further analysis. The voltage in millivolts is compared with reference value to quantify the values of parameters like pH, dissolved O2. In an exemplary embodiment, the voltage in millivolts is compared with reference value via a lookup table and the actual values of various parameters are determined.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the three nylon tanks 354 are arranged adjacent to each other in a row. Each of the nylon tank is used for determining a chemical or physical parameter. In an exemplary embodiment, the first tank is used for study pH, the second tank is used for determining dissolved O2 and the third nylon tank is used for determining oxidation reduction potential.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the height of the nylon tank is in the range of 4 to 8 inches and the diameter is in the range of 3 to 6 inches. In one embodiment of the invention, the sample water in the nylon tank 354 after the test is drained through the solenoid valve 338.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 4 is explained with cross references to FIG.1. As shown in FIG. 4, a guide mechanism and plurality of probe holders of the water quality management apparatus according to the present invention. In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, there are 6 probe cup holders, wherein Cup holder’s ‘A’ are test sample cup holders, those holds the test water sample. Cup holder’s ‘B’ are storage / calibration solution cup holders, those holds storage solutions like pH4 buffer solution for pH probe, Zero DO solution for DO probe and ORP buffer solution.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the pH values range from 0 to 14. The pH values in the range of 0 to 7 indicate acidic nature of the substance and pH values in the range of 8 to 14 indicate basic nature. pH value of 7 indicates a neutral substance. In the present invention, if the pH value of the water is beyond the acceptable range, values along with suggested corrective actions are notified to the user.

Oxygen is the first limiting factor for growth and well-being of shrimp. In the present invention, if the dissolved oxygen value of the water is beyond the acceptable range, corrective actions are taken to keep the dissolved oxygen value of the water in acceptable range.

Oxidation reduction potential (ORP) is a measure of the cleanliness of the water & its ability to break down contaminants. If the ORP is in the range of + 150 to +250 milliVolts (mV), then the water is beneficial to aquatic life. If the ORP is in the range of 0 to +100 milliVolts (mV), then it indicates the presence of contaminants. In the present invention, if the oxidation reduction potential value of the water is beyond the acceptable range.

If the ORP value is out of range then the system sends a notification to conduct further tests on the water samples to identify the measurements of parameters like ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, calcium, magnesium, alkalinity, chlorine, etc and then suggested corrective actions are notified to the user. The ORP is used in a smart way to analyze or measure the remaining important parameters only when needed. This brings down the cost of the whole system.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, an auto calibration test procedure will be run during a non-testing time period of the apparatus. The calibration test procedure involves storing the probes in Cup holder’s ‘B’. When a test is initiated the apparatus will have a quick snapshot of the measurements of buffer solutions and compare the measurements taken with the golden set which is taken in a laboratory. If the values are in range with the golden set, then the electronic sub system directs the apparatus to test the sampled water. If the probes read the values which are not in range when compared with the golden set, the electronic sub system initiates to send a notification for probe maintenance.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the test water is collected when the probe is pre-tested, and the sample is fed to the Cup holders ‘A’ with running flow. The motorized guide mechanism moves the probes to Cup holder’s ‘A’, wherein the probes measure the parameters after a pre-determined time for a defined duration.

Now compare these measurements with the golden set just to verify they are valid or not. If valid push the measurements to the cloud. If not send a notification for a probe maintenance schedule / or values out range. After the test is done move the probes to Cup holder’s ‘B’. Apart from the above test procedure we need to periodically drain out and refill Cup holder’s ‘B’ with their respective buffer solutions.

The system sends a notification to the cloud if the buffer solutions are nearing completion in the corresponding storage tanks (pH buffer solution tank, Zero DO buffer solution tank and ORP buffer solution tank).

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the probes are calibrated at regular intervals to get the accurate values. In one embodiment of the invention, the data obtained with regard to quality of water is stored on a cloud server. The data obtained is used for various analyses.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus wherein the probes are autonomously calibrated by use of storage/calibration solution cup holders, wherein the cup holders hold storage solutions like phosphonium (pH4) buffer solution for alkalinity (pH) probe, Zero Dissolved Oxygen (DO) solution for DO probe and Oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) buffer solution for ORP test probe.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus wherein the sampling tank comprises of pH, DO, ORP or the like electrolyte solution in small tanks to refill the storage/calibration solution cup holder’s ‘B’ to maintain the probes in their pristine state.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus wherein comprises a camera, setup above a cup holder ‘C’ that collects sampled water to analyze a color.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus wherein the analyses of the color of the pond water by use of the camera will help understand a waters state and/or the survival of the aquatic animal.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus wherein the analyses of the color of the pond water by use of the camera helps to ascertain a suitable / favorable water color in pond wherein it will result in developing micro-plankton, stability of water environment, and creates a favorable environment to limit shocks in shrimp and hence improve their survival rate.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus wherein the probes after calibration are placed in the designated test sample cup holder, into which the water sample is pumped, and at least one designated test is carried out.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus wherein the designated tests are conducted to identify one or more chemical and/or physical parameters like temperature, pH, salinity, conductivity, total dissolved solids, suspended solids, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, oxidation reduction potential, hardness and the like.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus wherein at least one sensor is used to monitor insufficient electrolyte solution (pH, DO, ORP or the like), membrane permeability degradation in case of DO probe and Glass bulb sensitivity in case pH probe.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus wherein the probes are operated over a guide channel and are inserted into the probe cup holders.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 5A-5B is explained with cross references to FIG.1. As shown in FIG. 5A illustrates a casing that consists of data transmission sub module which will comprise an electronic circuit board and a memory for processing recorded water quality parameters for transmitting wirelessly to a user using a communicating means of the water quality management apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 5B illustrates a block diagram of data transmission sub module which will comprise an electronic circuit board and a memory for processing recorded water quality parameters for transmitting wirelessly to a user.

In accordance with the first exemplary embodiment of the invention, the apparatus wherein the data transmission sub module transmits temperature, pH, salinity, conductivity, total dissolved solids, suspended solids, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, oxidation reduction potential, hardness and the like by a user via plurality of messages through SMS, Voice call, and/or push notifications on a mobile device.

According to a second exemplary embodiment of the invention, a method of employing a pond side water quality monitoring apparatus is disclosed. The method comprises steps of staging, a sampling tank aloft at a suitable height to a vertical stand; staging, an enclosure with electronic circuit board to a rear side of the sampling tank; staging, a rigid base that supports the vertical stand and adopts a sample water drawing pump to draw water for sampling from different points of a pond.

In accordance with the second exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises a step of arranging, an inlet pipe to one side of the sampling tank for allowing the sample water drawn from the pump with a flow regulator.

In accordance with the second exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises a step of arranging, an outlet pipe from bottom of the sampling tank for draining out the sample water used for testing.

In accordance with the second exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises a step of arranging, a module for recording a plurality of chemical and physical parameters; wherein, the module comprises a plurality of probes connected with mechanized valves arranged in the sampling tank from top.

In accordance with the second exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises a step of attaching, the processing and recording means of the module in the enclosure along with the circuit board; wherein, processing the recorded water quality parameters, positioning and operation of the probes are being guided.

In accordance with the second exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises a step of staging, a power management module to regulate an input power to the whole of the apparatus.

In accordance with the second exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises a step of arranging, a data transmission sub module for transmitting recorded said chemical and physical parameters wirelessly to a user using a communicating means; wherein, the communication means transmits the processed data to a remote server for analytics, and for further instructing a plurality of external devices; and the water quality monitoring apparatus is adopted to be placed on a crest of a pond.

According to a third exemplary embodiment of the invention, a water quality monitoring method using a water quality monitoring apparatus, wherein the method comprises steps of admitting, pond water into a sampling tank 110 drawn using a pump from different places of a pond with a flow regulator; recording a plurality of chemical and physical parameters of the sampled water; wherein, the module comprises a plurality of probes connected with mechanized valves arranged in the sampling tank from top.

In accordance with the third exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises a step of letting, the excess sample water out through an outlet pipe from bottom of the sampling tank.

In accordance with the third exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises a step of allowing, an electronic module with a circuit board, a processor and a memory, guide the positioning and operation of the probes over a guide channel with a motor into designated probe cup holders; wherein, each of the probes are autonomously calibrated by use of storage/ calibration solution pumped alternatively into the respective cup holders after a sampling is done.

In accordance with the third exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further comprises a step of allowing, a data transmission sub module for transmitting recorded said chemical and physical parameters wirelessly to a user using a communicating means; wherein, the communication means transmits the processed data to a remote server for analytics, and for further instructing a plurality of external devices.

In accordance with the third exemplary embodiment of the invention, the said water quality monitoring method is adopted to check the water quality by placing the said apparatus on a crest of a pond.

In accordance with the third exemplary embodiment of the invention, the said water quality monitoring method is adopted wherein the probes are autonomously calibrated by use of a plurality of storage/calibration solution cup holders, wherein the cup holders holds storage solutions like phosphonium (pH4) buffer solution for alkalinity (pH) probe, Zero Dissolved Oxygen (DO) solution for DO probe and Oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) buffer solution for ORP test probe.

In accordance with the third exemplary embodiment of the invention, wherein the sampling tank 110 comprises of pH, DO, ORP or the like electrolyte solution in small tanks to refill the storage/calibration solution cup holder’s ‘B’ to maintain the probes in their pristine state.

In accordance with the third exemplary embodiment of the invention, wherein the probes after calibration are autonomously placed in the designated test sample cup holder’s ‘A’ into which the water sample is pumped, and at least one designated test is carried out.

In accordance with the third exemplary embodiment of the invention, wherein a plurality of sensors is used to monitor insufficient electrolyte solution (pH, DO, ORP or the like), membrane permeability degradation in case of DO probe and Glass bulb sensitivity in case pH probe.

In accordance with the third exemplary embodiment of the invention, wherein the designated tests are conducted to identify one or more chemical and/or physical parameters like temperature, pH, salinity, conductivity, total dissolved solids, suspended solids, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, oxidation reduction potential, hardness and the like.

In accordance with the third exemplary embodiment of the invention, wherein the data transmission sub module transmits temperature, pH, salinity, conductivity, total dissolved solids, suspended solids, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, oxidation reduction potential, hardness and the like by a user via plurality of messages through SMS, Voice call, and/or push notifications on a mobile device.

The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in several ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for description and should not be regarded as limiting.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the structure of the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. In view of the foregoing, it is intended that the present invention cover modifications and variations of this invention provided they fall within the scope of the following claims. ,CLAIMS:5. CLAIMS
I/We Claim
1. A pond side water quality monitoring apparatus 100, comprising:
a sampling tank 110 with an opening on top and a cover 112;
wherein, the sampling tank 110 has an inlet pipe 114 for feeding a regulated flow 116 of water that is to be tested and an outlet pipe 118 from bottom of the sampling tank for draining out the excess and used sampled water;
the sampling tank 110 further, comprises plurality of storage/calibration solution cup holders, test sample cup holders A and probes 356 for testing a plurality of physical and chemical properties of the sampled water;
the probes are handled by a guide system controlled by an electromechanical sub system;
a water pump 120 for drawing water for sampling;
a plurality of pipes 122 connected to the water pump via valves and flow regulators 124 to draw water for sampling from different points of a pond through multi stage filters 126;
a module 130 for recording a plurality of chemical and physical parameters;
wherein, the module 150 comprises a plurality of probes 356 connected with mechanized valves 352 arranged in the sampling tank from top;
a processing and recording mean 162 of the module is attached to a rear side of the sampling tank comprises an electronic circuit board 564 and a memory for processing recorded water quality parameters;
a power management module with a solar module 170 to feed an input power to the whole of the apparatus;
a data transmission sub module for transmitting recorded said chemical and physical parameters wirelessly to a user using a communicating means;
and
wherein, the communication means transmits the processed data to a remote server for analytics, and for further instructing a plurality of external devices.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the probes are autonomously calibrated by use of storage/calibration solution cup holder’s B, wherein the cup holder’s ‘B’ holds storage solutions like phosphonium (pH4) buffer solution for alkalinity (pH) probe, Zero Dissolved Oxygen (DO) solution for DO probe and Oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) buffer solution for ORP test probe.

3. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the sampling tank comprises of pH, DO, ORP or the like electrolyte solution in small tanks to refill the storage/calibration solution cup holders B to maintain the probes in their pristine state.

4. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the probes after calibration are placed in the designated test sample cup holder ‘A’, into which the water sample is pumped, and at least one designated test is carried out.

5. The apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein the designated tests are conducted to identify one or more chemical and/or physical parameters like temperature, pH, salinity, conductivity, total dissolved solids, suspended solids, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, oxidation reduction potential, hardness and the like.

6. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one sensor is used to monitor insufficient electrolyte solution (pH, DO, ORP or the like), membrane permeability degradation in case of DO probe and Glass bulb sensitivity in case pH probe.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the probes are operated over a guide channel and are inserted into the probe cup holders (A & B) for operation.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein comprises a camera, setup above a cup holder ‘C’ that collects sampled water to analyze a color.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the analyses of the color of the pond water by use of the camera will help understand a waters state and/or the survival of the aquatic animal.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the analyses of the color of the pond water by use of the camera helps to ascertain a suitable / favorable water color in pond wherein it will result in developing micro-plankton, stability of water environment, and creates a favorable environment to limit shocks in shrimp and hence improve their survival rate.

11. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein said power management module comprises a battery chargeable by a solar panel.

12. A method of employing a pond side water quality monitoring apparatus, wherein the method comprises steps of:
staging, a sampling tank 110 aloft at a suitable height to a vertical stand;
staging, an enclosure with electronic circuit board to a rear side of the sampling tank;
staging, a rigid base that supports the vertical stand and adopts a sample water drawing pump to draw water for sampling from different points of a pond;
arranging, an inlet pipe 114 to one side of the sampling tank 110 for allowing the sample water drawn from the pump with a flow regulator;
arranging, an outlet pipe 118 from bottom of the sampling tank 110 for draining out the sample water used for testing;
arranging, a module for recording a plurality of chemical and physical parameters;
wherein, the module comprises a plurality of probes connected with mechanized valves arranged in the sampling tank 110 from top;
attaching, the processing and recording means of the module in the enclosure along with the circuit board;
wherein, processing the recorded water quality parameters, positioning and operation of the probes are being guided;
staging, a power management module to regulate an input power to the whole of the apparatus;
arranging, a data transmission sub module for transmitting recorded said chemical and physical parameters wirelessly to a user using a communicating means;
wherein, the communication means transmits the processed data to a remote server for analytics, and for further instructing a plurality of external devices;
and
the water quality monitoring apparatus is adopted to be placed on a crest of a pond.

13. A water quality monitoring method using a water quality monitoring apparatus, wherein the method comprises steps of:
admitting, pond water into a sampling tank 110 drawn using a pump from different places of a pond with a flow regulator;
recording a plurality of chemical and physical parameters of the sampled water;
wherein, the module comprises a plurality of probes connected with mechanized valves arranged in the sampling tank 110 from top;
letting, the excess sample water out through an outlet pipe 118 from bottom of the sampling tank;
allowing, an electronic module with a circuit board, a processor and a memory, guide the positioning and operation of the probes over a guide channel with a motor into designated probe cup holders;
wherein, each of the probes are autonomously calibrated by use of storage/ calibration solution pumped alternatively into the respective cup holders after a sampling is done;
allowing, a data transmission sub module for transmitting recorded said chemical and physical parameters wirelessly to a user using a communicating means;
wherein, the communication means transmits the processed data to a remote server for analytics, and for further instructing a plurality of external devices;
and
the said water quality monitoring method is adopted to check the water quality by placing the said apparatus on a crest of a pond.

14. The water quality monitoring method according to claim 13, wherein the probes are autonomously calibrated by use of a plurality of storage/calibration solution cup holders, wherein the cup holders holds storage solutions like phosphonium (pH4) buffer solution for alkalinity (pH) probe, Zero Dissolved Oxygen (DO) solution for DO probe and Oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) buffer solution for ORP test probe.

15. The water quality monitoring method according to claim 13, wherein the sampling tank 110 comprises of pH, DO, ORP or the like electrolyte solution in small tanks to refill the storage/calibration solution cup holders B to maintain the probes in their pristine state.

16. The water quality monitoring method according to claim 13, wherein the probes after calibration are autonomously placed in the designated test sample cup holders into which the water sample is pumped, and at least one designated test is carried out.

17. The water quality monitoring method according to claim 13, wherein a plurality of sensors is used to monitor insufficient electrolyte solution (pH, DO, ORP or the like), membrane permeability degradation in case of DO probe and Glass bulb sensitivity in case pH probe.

18. The water quality monitoring method according to claim 13, wherein the designated tests are conducted to identify one or more chemical and/or physical parameters like temperature, pH, salinity, conductivity, total dissolved solids, suspended solids, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, oxidation reduction potential, hardness and the like.

6. DATE AND SIGNATURE Agents Signature
Dated this May, 2019

A. Vijay Bhaskar Reddy, (IN/PA 2420)