Infrastructure monitoring devices, systems, and methods.

INFRASTRUCTURE MONITORING DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of United States Provisional Application 61 / 355,468 filed on June 16, 2010, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The description is directed to devices, systems, and methods related to the monitoring and control of an infrastructure such as, but not limited to, the supply and use of water, gas and / or commercial, industrial or residential electrical services, and, in In particular, a device, methods, and systems for monitoring and controlling a municipality and alerting a user about potential failures and required actions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The municipalities administer and / or subcontract numerous public service and security systems within each municipality. Such systems are usually complex infrastructures and include but are not limited to water distribution, gas distribution, electricity distribution, garbage management, traffic control, fire departments, police departments, and emergency response departments. Each of these systems needs to be monitored for use (authorized or unauthorized), failures, alteration, events, interruptions or blockages, leaks, contamination, and / or other matters.

In order to gain an understanding of the status of any system, or for ordinary use, billing or repair purposes, personnel must commonly be sent within the municipality to verify problems within the system manually. This process is slow, laborious and can lead to neglected problems. In addition, preferred aspects of the system can be evaluated irregularly or infrequently, thus allowing a problem not to be verified for prolonged periods. As an example, a leak in a main water pipe can cost a water distribution company a significant amount of money in wasted water, energy use and chemical treatment, particularly if the leak is not discovered for a relatively period dragged on. In addition, a leak can lead to underground structural erosion. Interference with a system may go unnoticed unless it is reported to a central facility.

Another problem and disadvantage associated with current systems is the lack of sufficient property rights to maintain a network of device monitors and controllers capable of creating a transmission infrastructure that can adapt multiple monitors and controllers and form an information network to provide information about the system to the public service that monitors the network. For example, certain networks require that new poles or towers be erected for the placement of communication devices. It is possible that municipalities have to rent space in the poles of a public service company for the placement of these devices.

In addition, a problem in one system can cause a problem in another system. For example, a fire reported by the fire department may require the gas company to deactivate the gas flow to the vicinity of the fire and may require the water company to redirect the water or provide additional water pressure to the nearby area. However, many current systems are not interoperable.

Therefore, it is desirable to have an individual system that can monitor different aspects of at least one municipal system continuously and communicate with several entities at the same time.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The methods, systems, and devices described overcome the problems and disadvantages associated with current strategies and systems and provide new systems and methods for monitoring municipal infrastructure.

One modality is aimed at an infrastructure monitoring system. The system includes an operations center and two or more communication devices communicatively coupled to the operations center. At least one communication device of the plurality of communication devices is coupled to a component of the infrastructure, and at least two communication devices are monitoring devices. The first monitoring device monitors a first aspect or location of the infrastructure and the second monitoring device monitors a second aspect or location of the infrastructure.

In one embodiment, each monitoring device includes at least one sensor that detects at least one condition within the infrastructure, at least one data storage device that stores the data detected by said at least one sensor, at least one transceiver device adapted to transmit and receive data, and at least one processor communicatively coupled to at least one sensor, data storage device, and transceiver device.

In one embodiment, the operations center and the plurality of communication devices are wirelessly coupled. At least one communication device is an output device. The output device includes a transceiver device adapted to receive or transmit data, at least one output port, and a processor communicatively coupled to at least one of the transceiver device and at least one output port.

In one embodiment, the operations center and at least one output device are communicatively coupled wirelessly. Each communication device is adapted to receive transmissions for a second communication device and to retransmit the transmission to the second communication device. Each communication device is adapted to receive transmissions to the operation center and to retransmit the transmission to the operation center.

In one embodiment, at least one output device is coupled to at least one trigger control device, an alarm, a Radio Frequency Identification device and an alteration prevention device.

In one embodiment, a monitoring device and an output device are contained within the same unit. The monitoring device and the output device share at least one of a power source, a transceiver device, and a processor.

The infrastructure may be at least one of a water distribution system, an electricity distribution system, a gas distribution system, a traffic control, and an emergency response system. The system can monitor at least one of gas use, water use, electricity use, alteration, leaks, GPS location, proximity, inclination, smoke, temperature, oxidation, corrosion, fluid flow, pressure, water quality, air quality, pollution, radiation, pH, infrastructure status, and movement.

In one mode, the system produces an alert when at least one monitoring device records an event. In one embodiment, at least one monitoring device is coupled to a visual or acoustic device. The operations center may include multiple operations centers. Each operations center has a unique location. The operations center can monitor a plurality of infrastructures concurrently.

The plurality of infrastructures is selected from the group comprising water systems, electrical systems, gas systems, emergency response systems, traffic control systems, and combinations thereof. One component of the infrastructure is one of a fire hydrant, a public service meter, a sewer cover, a public service post, a valve, a pipe, a traffic light, water tower, water tank, box of valves, valve box cover, meter box, meter box cover, and a smoke detector. In several embodiments when the infrastructure component is a fire hydrant, the communication device coupled to the fire hydrant is a repeater. At least a portion of the fire hydrant may be comprised of a material that does not interfere with the communications of the communications device. In addition, the communication device coupled to the fire hydrant may be placed within one of a nozzle cap, a pumping nozzle, a hose nozzle, a fire truck connection system, a fire truck connection system, and an engine cover.

Another modality is directed to another infrastructure monitoring system. The system includes an operation center and a plurality of communication devices communicatively coupled to the operation center. At least one communication device of the plurality of communication devices is coupled to a fire hydrant, a valve, a valve box, a valve box cover, a meter, a meter box, a box cover meter, a water tower, a water tank, a pumping nozzle, a hose nozzle, or a sewer cover.

In one embodiment, the communication device coupled to the fire hydrant is one of a monitoring device, an output device, and a repeater. At least a portion of the fire hydrant is comprised of a material that does not interfere with communications. In one embodiment, the communication device coupled to the fire hydrant is placed inside one of the nozzle cap, the pumping nozzle, the hose nozzle, the fire truck connection system, and the engine cover.

Another modality is directed to a fire hydrant. The fire hydrant includes an engine cover and a communication device coupled to the engine cover. The communication device is an element of an infrastructure monitoring system.

Other modalities and advantages are set forth in part in the following description, and in part, they may be obvious from this description, or they can be learned based on practice.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The figures shown and described in greater detail are provided by way of example only.

FIGURE 1 is a schematic of an embodiment of the system described.

FIGURE 2 is a schematic of an embodiment of a monitoring device.

FIGURE 3 is a schematic of an embodiment of a control device.

FIGURE 4A is an exploded view of one embodiment of a device of the description as housed within a fire hydrant.

FIGURE 4B is a perspective view of a device of the description attached to a fire hydrant.

FIGURE 5A is a perspective view of one embodiment of an insulating device for sealing the engine cover of the fire hydrant of the water within the fire hydrant.

FIGURE 5B is a perspective view of an embodiment of an insulating device and motor cover.

FIGURE 6A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a nozzle cap for attachment to a fire hydrant.

FIGURE 6B is a sectional view of one embodiment of the nozzle cap of FIGURE 6A.

FIGURE 6C is a sectional view of one embodiment of the nozzle cap of FIGURE 6A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As presented and described extensively herein, the descriptions herein provide illustrative modalities of the systems, methods, and devices described. Features can be presented in several alternative forms. Therefore, it is not intended that specific structural and functional details be limiting, but rather that they are intended to provide a basis for claims and as a representative basis for teaching someone skilled in the art to use the present description in various ways. .

A problem in the technique that can be solved by the modalities described is the monitoring and maintenance of an infrastructure. It has been discovered that monitoring devices with one or two communication capabilities can be used to detect failures in municipal systems and provide device status on demand, in real time or near real time, maintenance, and control over systems.

A network of monitoring devices is able to provide a system administrator with a complete picture of the real state of the system. The network includes an arrangement of different monitoring devices each capable of detecting at least one condition. Monitoring devices may be able to send data to and receive data from at least one operations center. Communication from the remote monitoring device may be directed to a central monitoring facility, to one of a regional monitoring center number, to a user, and / or to a research facility. In addition, the system includes at least one control device. Each control device is adapted to control a different aspect of the system. The control devices can be part of the monitoring devices or they can be separate units. Communication is over the Internet, although it can be a private network, a local area network, or a wide area network. Communication involves a wireless component, from, for example, the remote monitoring device and / or the control device for a regional monitoring facility or for distributed monitors. Also, communications are secured or encrypted so that the communication system cannot be monitored by an unknown party. Access to the system is granted through user names and passwords, although additional and / or alternate encryption methods can be used.

One modality is aimed at water infrastructure systems. In such systems, the monitoring devices may be located through the system, for example, as fixations to component parts, for feedback to a network that can provide real-time information for the public service that operates the network. Network operators may use the information transmitted to activate control devices on the network, or to dispatch repair or other services as indicated by the information provided by the network. For example, if water pressure monitors in a water meter indicate a variation between locations, a water leak can be reported using the network, and control devices can divert water. Pressure gauges can be attached to the fire hydrant in order to monitor and report pressure losses through the system, providing real-time information for the benefit of fire hydrant users (fire departments that need to ensure pressure adequate), the users of the system (water consumers that will be affected by the lower pressure), and system operators (who suffer a loss of assets as a result of the lack of real-time information about the losses).

FIGURE 1 shows a system 100 for monitoring control, and communicating with at least one monitoring device 110 and / or at least one control device

111. The system 100 includes an operation center 105 in communication with at least one monitoring device 110 and / or a control device 111. In the preferred mode, there is bi-directional communication between the operation center 105 and the devices 110 and 111. Communications can be single or double. Communication may occur over any communications network 115 known in the art, which includes, but is not limited to, wired networks, wireless networks, Zigbee networks, Bluetooth networks, Z-wave networks, WiFi networks, WiMax networks, RF networks , local area networks (LAN), Internet networks, wide area networks (WAN), cellular telephone network, wired telephone networks, 900 MHz wireless networks, and satellite networks. In one embodiment, the network is a fixed network. For example, the fixed network can be a mesh network or a star network. Additionally, the devices 110 and 111 and the operation center 105 can be in direct communication or can be communicated through an intermediate device, such as a relay, a repeater, a bridge, or other device capable of receiving and retransmitting a message.

Each monitoring device 110 monitors at least one aspect of the infrastructure. The monitored aspect may be one or more of the infrastructure components (for example, pipe conditions, valve conditions, fire hydrant conditions, service line conditions, meter conditions, power line conditions, and conditions of battery), product conditions (for example, flow of fluid or gas, pressure of fluid or gas, temperature of fluid or gas, and contaminants of fluid or gas), or combinations thereof. Additionally, each monitoring device 110 may be self monitoring. For example, monitoring devices 110 determine if there is a loss of communication, low battery levels, and / or internal damage (for example short circuits due to water damage). Additionally, each monitoring device 110 can be structurally stable (for example, fixed to a valve, pipe, public service post, a hydrant, a valve box, a valve box cover, a meter, a storage box meter, a meter box cover, a water tower, a water tank, a pumping nozzle, a hose nozzle, or a sewer cover) or mobile (for example authorized for movement with or within the flow of water or gas in the pipes).

For example, a monitoring device 110 or 111 can be coupled to a fire hydrant 405, as seen in FIGURE 4B. The monitoring device 110 or 111 may be located inside a nozzle cap 600 (i.e. in the pumping nozzle, the hose nozzle, or in the fire truck connection system), within a fire hydrant body , inside an engine cover, fixed to the outside of the fire hydrant, or at another location in or inside the fire hydrant. A housing for the monitoring device 110 or 111 is made of plastic, nylon, other synthetic or natural materials, or any other material that does not block the transmissions to and from the monitoring device 110 or 111. For example, as shown in FIGURE 4A, the engine cover 400 of the fire hydrant may contain a monitoring device 110 and a waterproof container 420 for the monitoring device 110. In certain embodiments, the fire hydrant engine cover 400 may also contain a power source 425. In another example, as shown in FIGURE 4B, the monitoring device 110 may be coupled to the outside of a fire hydrant 405. In another embodiment, shown in FIGURES 5A and 5B, the engine cover 500 of a fire hydrant 505 may be isolated from the flow of water into the fire hydrant 505. For example, it may be a disk of plastic, metal, or other 530 material that seals a portion of the fire hydrant 505 in order to prevent water from reaching the internal regions of the engine cover 500.

In another embodiment, a monitoring device 110 or control device 111 is placed inside a nozzle cover 600 of a fire hydrant. A fire hydrant nozzle cap 600 is a device attached to an external nozzle and »

covers a nozzle opening. The nozzle cap 600 is provided with a nut 605 or other device in order to allow the application of force to firmly fix the nozzle cap 600 to or remove it from the outlet nozzle. FIGURE 6A shows an isometric view of one embodiment of the nozzle cap 600. In one embodiment, the nozzle cap 600 is made of composite, plastic, nylon, other synthetic or natural materials, or any other material that does not block the transmissions to and from the monitoring device 110 or the control device 111. The material has the same characteristics of fading of the paint used outside the fire hydrant. For example, the material may have the same resistance to water, UV rays, corrosion, oxidation, or other causes of fading. Therefore, the paint and the nozzle cap 600 appear to be of the same material.

FIGURES 6B and 6C show cut-away views of one embodiment of the nozzle cover 600. The nozzle cover 600 has an enclosure 610 that creates a cavity within which the monitoring device 110 or the control device 111 may be located. The cavity is enclosed by a cover 615. Enclosure 610 and cover 615 create a water tight seal capable of withstanding water pressures exceeding 400 psi. In various embodiments, other pressures can be used. Additionally, in one embodiment, the nozzle cover 600 has an antenna cover 620. The antenna cover 620 may be made of the same material as the nozzle cover 600 or of a different material. The location of the antenna is kept away from the metal to achieve greater efficiency.

Threaded nozzle hydrant 625 is provided as a means of connection between nozzle cap 600 and fire hydrant. The nozzle cap 600 also includes threaded enclosure 630 as a connection means for enclosure 610 to connect to the nozzle cap 600. Enclosure 610 also includes connection threading.

640 designed to fit with threaded enclosure 630. A 650 antenna is shown.

Each node in network 115 detects errors in transmissions. Error detection can use cyclic redundancy codes that employ a table based on a defined polynomial or other error detection method. In alternative modalities, transmissions can be redirected if the primary route is blocked or otherwise not available. In addition, devices 110 and 111 can confirm the reception of a message, for example through a transfer protocol. In cases where confirmation was not received, the message can be re-sent through the same route or redirected.

In several embodiments, each monitoring device 110 and each control device 111 are assigned a unique identifier. The unique identifier may be related to the geographical locations of the devices, home addresses, installation order, or any other method of identifying the devices 110,

111. In addition, different types of devices 110 and 111 may have unique identifiers that include keys that are unique to that type of device. For example, the identifier for all water meters can start with WM, while the identifier for all leak detectors can start with LD. Each communication to and from a monitoring device 110 and control device 111 may include the unique identifier so that the message is received by the correct monitoring device 110 or control device 111, or so that the operation center 105 can Determine where the message was sent from.

Each monitoring device 110 and each control device 111 can be adapted to an existing system 100 or device 110, 111, can be coupled to a new system 100 or device 110,111, or can be integrated into a new system 100 or device 110 , 111. For example, system 100 can be connected to, work with, or work independently of a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCAD A) network. In one embodiment, each monitoring device 110 and each control device 111 has a set of adapters to facilitate the coupling of the monitoring device 110 or control device 111 to a new or existing system 100 or device 110,111.

In one embodiment, system 100 is divided into sectors with each sector that has at least one monitoring device 110 and / or at least one control device 111. Each sector can communicate directly with the operations center 105 or each sector may have at least one intermediary communication device that is in communication with the monitoring device 110 and / or control device 111 and operation center 105. In one mode, the sectors are divided by geographic location. For example, all devices in an area can be in an individual sector and there is a sector for each area. In one embodiment, an intermediary communication device can serve multiple sectors.

In alternative embodiments, each monitoring device 110 and / or control device 111 may communicate with monitoring devices 110 and / or adjacent control devices 111. In said modalities, each monitoring device 110 and / or control device 111 can act as a transceiver or relay by receiving messages destined for another device 110,111 or for the operation center 105 and sending the message. In modalities where the system 100 is divided into sectors, the monitoring devices 110 and the control devices 111 can only communicate within their sector. In other embodiments, the monitoring device 110 and the control device 111 can communicate with the devices 110, 111 in other sectors. Each monitoring device 110, control device 111, and / or the operation center 105 may be able to determine if a transmitted message was received by the intended device 110, 111 and, if not, may be able to redirect the message until it is received properly. Additionally, the relay devices can be implemented in the system to further extend the range of communications. For example, relay devices can be placed on public service posts, in municipal buildings, inside fire hydrants, and / or under sewer covers. In alternative embodiments, devices 110 and 111 communicate over a mesh network. In the mesh network, devices 110 and 111 can communicate with other devices 110 and 111 within the mesh network. The operation center 105 may establish specified communication paths derived from the route tables.

The operations center 105 may be located in a municipal office, a private or public company, a fire station, a police station, or any other entity that monitors the operations center 105. In other embodiments, the operations center 105 It can be hosted remotely and accessible via the Internet. In such embodiments, the operation center 105 can take advantage of cloud computing (for example a network of remotely hosted computers, servers, and data storage devices). Compared to computer networks hosted remotely, cloud computing can increase usability, increase access, increase security, reduce costs, be adapted, and provide an unrestricted expansion of storage space.

Additionally, in several embodiments, there is a plurality of operation centers 105. One or more operation centers 105 may be in different entities and each operation center 105 may monitor a different aspect of the system 100. For example, in modalities where one monitoring device 110 monitors water use and another monitors gas leaks, the water use aspect can be monitored by a public water utility and gas leaks can be monitored by the public gas service company and / or the fire department. In certain embodiments, there are redundant operation centers 105, where at least two operation centers 105 monitor the same aspect of the system 100. The operation center 105 can send transmissions to update the firmware of devices 110 and 111.

FIGURE 2 is a schematic of a monitoring unit device 200. The monitoring unit device 200 includes a processor 205. The processor 205 is coupled to at least one input port 210 to receive data from the sensors 215. The Processor 205 is also coupled to a transceiver 220 to send and receive signals. The processor 205 is coupled to a data storage unit 230. The data storage unit 230 may contain a predetermined amount of data received from the sensors 215. For example, the data storage unit 230 may contain data for a predetermined amount of time (for example a day, a week, or a month), may contain a predetermined number of readings (for example 10 readings, 100 readings, 1000 readings), or it may contain data until you are prompted to purge the data through the operations center 105. Additionally, the data storage unit 230 may contain instructions for the processor 205 for execution at the indication from the operation center 105. The processor 205 compiles at least some of the data stored in the data storage unit 230 for transmission to the operations center 105.

Each monitoring device unit 200 can collect data and / or transmit data continuously, at specific intervals or randomly. In modes where the monitoring device unit 200 collects and transmits data in a non-continuous configuration, the monitoring device unit 200 can be turned off or reduce energy consumption during periods without data collection to save energy. The processor 205 is coupled to a power source 235. The power source 235 can be a unit capable of feeding the processor 205 and the devices attached to the processor 205. For example, the power source 235 can be a battery, a solar panel arrangement, wind turbine, water turbine, power lines, or combinations thereof. In preferred embodiments, there is also a backup power source, such as a battery. Energy can be derived from the operation of system 100.

In one embodiment, processor 205 is coupled to at least one sensor 215 that monitors at least one condition associated with the monitoring device. The sensors 215 can determine the status of a device. The sensors 215 may be directly wired to the processor 205 or may use wireless communication to send and receive signals from the processor 205. The sensors 215 may be placed inside the monitoring device or be external to the monitoring device. In alternative embodiments, the sensors 215 are placed away from the monitoring device. For example, a sensor can be placed in a fire hydrant, in a nearby building, or on a public service post. In the modes in which the sensors 215 and the processor 205 communicate wirelessly, the same communication protocol can be used in the sensor / processor communication as in the processor / operations center communication, or different communication protocols can be used communications in the sensor / processor communication of those in the processor / control center communication. For example, sensor / processor communications can use RF protocols while processor / control center communications can be over a wired network.

In one embodiment, sensor 215 is a usage monitor. In such mode, the usage monitor records the amount of water, gas, electricity, or other product that is used by a customer during a specified period. The usage monitor can continuously record the amount of the product used or the usage monitor can provide a signal to the processor 205 that the product is in use. The processor 205 may transmit a signal to the operation control to alert the operation center 105 that the monitoring device 110 is being used and / or that both of the product is flowing through the sensor 215. The operation center 105 may request One reading from the usage monitor per order. The processor 205 or the operation center 105 can determine based on use, if there is unauthorized use of the product. Upon detection of an unauthorized use, at least one of the processor 205 or the operation center 105 may generate an alarm that there is an unauthorized use. For example, in modes where the usage monitor is coupled to a fire hydrant 405, if the usage monitor indicates that the fire hydrant 405 is in use, although there is no reported fire, the operation center 105 may distribute a warning that there is a potential misuse of fire hydrant 405.

In several embodiments, at least one sensor 215 is an alteration sensor. The alteration sensor may be a motion detector, a contact sensor, a rotation sensor, a touch sensor, a proximity sensor, a blockade sensor, a temperature sensor, a capacitance sensor, a resistance sensor or Any other sensor that is capable of detecting the presence of an object. The tamper sensor can send a message to processor 205 when the tamper sensor detects an event. The processor 205 will evaluate the event to determine if a device that is monitored is being altered or will relay the message to the operation center 105 for evaluation. The monitored device may be a fire hydrant, utility meter, valve, sewer cover, pump, or any other device that may be altered. Upon detection of an alteration event, at least one of the processor 205 and the operation center 105 can generate an alarm that the device is being altered. The monitoring device can activate an alteration prevention device (described below). The operation center 105 will send a transmission to the processor 205 telling the processor 205 to discard the messages from the tamper sensor for a predetermined time or until another message is received from the operation center 105 that instructs the processor 205 to resume monitoring for alteration events. For example, if a fire department needs to use a fire hydrant, the operation center 105 will send a message to the processor 205 to temporarily discard any disturbance events. Once the fire department has finished using the fire hydrant, the operation center 105 will send a message to the processor 205 to start monitoring the alteration event again.

In certain embodiments at least two of the sensors 215 are leak detectors. Each leak detector can include a pipe leak detector and / or an external leak detector. In gas applications, leak detectors are steam sensors. While in liquid applications, leak detectors use acoustic monitoring to determine the presence and location of a leak. The energy generated from a leak is transmitted within a pipeline through the product as well as through the pipe wall. Each leak detector can detect the vibrations made by the leak in the product or the pipe wall, joint or service line. In order to determine the location of a leak, at least two detectors must detect the same leak. Based on the speed of the sound that travels through the pipe (V), the distance between the two detectors (D) and the delay between the times in which each detector detects the sound (T), the location of the leak (L) by means of the following equation:

L = (D - (V x T)) / 2

When the above equation is used, the typical speed of sound in water is approximately 1500 m / s while the common speed of sound through an iron pipe is 5100 m / s. Speed ​​can be measured empirically. For example, if the leak is exactly halfway between the two detectors, the sound would reach both detectors at the same time. Each detector can monitor continuously or at predetermined periods. Leak detectors can send a message to processor 205 when leak detectors detect an event. The processor 205 can evaluate the event to determine if there is a leak and how severe the leak is or could forward the message to the operation center 105 for evaluation. Upon detection of a leak event, at least one of the processor 205 or the operation center 105 can generate an alert that there is a leak if it is determined that the leak is severe enough to ensure attention.

In several embodiments, at least one sensor 215 is a smoke detector. The smoke detector could be a photoelectric detector, an ionization detector, or any other device that can detect the presence of smoke. The smoke detector may be located inside the monitoring device or outside the monitoring device. The smoke detector continuously monitors the smoke. The smoke detector can send a message to processor 205 when the smoke detector detects an event. The processor 205 can evaluate the event to determine if there is smoke or can forward the message to the operation center 105 for evaluation. Upon smoke detection, at least one of the processor 205 or the operation center 105 can generate an alert that there is smoke.

In certain embodiments, at least one sensor 215 is a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may be a contact sensor (for example, thermocouples, thermistors, liquid-in-glass thermometers, resistance temperature detectors, thermometers operating by the filling principle, bimetallic thermometers, semiconductor temperature sensors, and indicators phase change) or a non-contact sensor (for example, radiation thermometers, thermal imagers, ratio thermometers, optical pyrometers, and fiber optic thermometers). The temperature sensor may be located inside the monitoring device or outside the monitoring device. In one embodiment, the temperature sensor continuously monitors if the temperature rises above or falls below a predetermined threshold. The temperature sensor can send a message to processor 205 when the temperature sensor detects a temperature beyond the thresholds. The processor 205 can evaluate the event to determine if the temperature is a problem (such as freezing of pipes or fire) or can forward the message to the operation center 105 for evaluation. Upon detection of undesirable temperatures, at least one of the processor 205 or the operation center 105 may generate an alert that an undesirable temperature condition exists.

In several embodiments, at least one sensor 215 is an oxidation and / or corrosion sensor. The corrosion sensor can detect oxidation and / or corrosion using any method known in the art, including but not limited to liquid penetration inspection, magnetic particle inspection, radiographic inspection, visual inspection, parasitic current inspection, ultrasonic inspection , and thermographic inspection. The corrosion sensor can send a message to processor 205 when the corrosion sensor detects oxidation or corrosion beyond a threshold value. The processor 205 can then evaluate the oxidation or corrosion to determine if there is a problem or can forward the message to the operation center 105 for evaluation. Upon detection of undesirable oxidation or corrosion, at least one of the processor 205 or the operation center 105 can generate an alert that there is an undesirable amount of oxidation or corrosion.

In several embodiments, at least one sensor 215 is a fluid flow sensor. The fluid flow sensor can be used in gas systems or in liquid systems. The fluid flow sensor can detect flow direction, flow turbidity, flow velocity, flow density, flow viscosity, and / or any other aspect of the flow. The fluid flow sensor may be a speedometer, a laser-based interferometer, a blade, a rotary potentiometer, a Hall effect sensor, a device for measuring thermal transfer caused by flowing fluid, or any other known device. in the technique to measure fluid flow. The fluid flow sensor can send a message to the processor 205 when the fluid flow sensor detects a flow anomaly. The processor 205 can evaluate the event to determine if the anomaly is a problem or can forward the message to the operation center 105 for evaluation. Upon detection of an anomaly, at least one of the processor 205 and the operation center 105 can generate an alert that an anomaly exists.

In several embodiments, at least one sensor 215 is a pressure sensor. In one embodiment, the pressure sensor is placed within the fluid flow or area in which the pressure is being detected. For example, the pressure sensor can be placed at the base of a fire hydrant and in the water to determine the pressure of the water inside the water system, in a pipe to determine the pressure of the gas or of the water inside the water system. gas or water, or in a room to determine the air pressure inside the room. The pressure sensor may be a piezoresistive voltage meter, a capacitance meter, an electromagnetic meter, a piezoelectric device, or any other device known in the art for measuring pressure. The pressure sensor can send a message to processor 205 when the pressure sensor detects a pressure anomaly. The processor 205 can evaluate the event to determine if the anomaly is a problem or can forward the message to the operation center 105 for evaluation. Upon detection of an anomaly, at least one of the processor 205 or the operation center 105 can generate an alert that an anomaly exists.

In several embodiments, at least one sensor 215 is a water quality monitor. The water quality monitor can monitor an individual aspect of the water flowing through the system 100 or multiple aspects of the water. For example, the water quality monitor can monitor one or more of the bacteria's levels of water, pharmaceutical levels, alkalinity, chlorine and / or chloramine levels, hardness, pH levels, peroxide content, iron levels, levels of nitrate, nitrite levels, arsenic levels, pollution levels, oxygen levels, biomass levels, and / or any other contaminants regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA for its acronym in English). In modalities where there are multiple monitoring devices, all devices can monitor the same aspects, each device can monitor a different aspect, or a combination of both. In one embodiment, water quality monitors continuously test water, although in alternative modalities, water quality monitors test water at predetermined intervals (for example

I once a hour, once a day, once a week, etc.). Each water quality monitor transmits data to the processor 205. The processor 205 can store the data in the data storage unit 230 or transmit the data to the operation center 105. Either the processor 205 or the operation center 105 can monitor the data received from the water quality monitors to determine if there is a change in the levels of the contaminants or if the levels of the contaminants are increased above a level of threshold. Upon detection of unsafe levels of contamination, at least one of the processor 205 or the operation center 105 can generate an alert that there is contamination in the water system.

In modalities where at least two monitoring devices are monitoring the same aspect of water, the operation center 105 can determine if there is a change in the appearance of water from the location of from the location of a monitoring device to the location of the other. If there is a change, the operation center 105 may generate an alert that there is a change in the water system and issues the approximate location of the change in the water system.

In several embodiments, at least one sensor 215 is an air quality monitor. The air quality monitor can monitor a single aspect of the air or multiple aspects of the air. In addition, the air quality monitor can monitor the air within an environment or installation. For example, the air quality monitor may monitor to control one or more of the benzene levels, carbon disulfide levels, urethane levels, formaldehyde levels, phosphorus levels, naphthalene levels, parathion levels, levels of quinoline, air trifluralin levels, and / or any of the other contaminants whose acceptable levels have been established by the Environmental Protection Agency. In modalities where there are multiple monitoring devices, all devices can monitor the same aspects or each device can monitor a different aspect or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, air quality monitors continuously test the air, although in preferred modes, air quality monitors test the air at predetermined intervals (for example, once every hour, once a day, once a week, etc.) Each air quality monitor transmits data to processor 205. The processor 205 can store the data in the data storage unit 230 or transmit the data to the operation center 105. Either the processor 205 or the operation center 105 can monitor the data received from the air quality monitors for Determine if there is a change in pollutant levels or if pollutant levels rise above a threshold level. Upon detection of unsafe levels of contamination, at least one of the processor 205 or the operation center 105 can generate an alert that there is air pollution.

In modalities where at least two monitoring devices are monitoring the same aspect of the air, the operation center 105 can determine if there is a change in the appearance of the air from the location of one monitoring device to the location of the other. If there is a change, the operation center 105 may generate an alert that there is a change in the air and emit the approximate location of the change in the appearance of the air. In addition, in modalities where there is a time stamp associated with each reading, the operation center 105 can determine the approximate direction and the speed at which the contaminant moves.

In several embodiments, at least one sensor 215 is a radiation detector. The radiation detector can distinguish between natural sources of radiation and artificial sources of radiation or can distinguish between normal levels of radiation and abnormal levels of radiation. The radiation detector detects ionization radiation. Ionization radiation consists of subatomic particles or electromagnetic waves that are energetic enough to separate electrons from atoms or molecules, ionizing them. Examples of ionization particles are energy alpha particles, beta particles, and neutrons. The ability of an electromagnetic wave (photons) to ionize an atom or molecule depends on its frequency. The short wavelength radiation of the electromagnetic spectrum — high frequency ultraviolet light, X-rays and gamma rays — is ionizing. The radiation detector is one of a dosimeter, Geiger counters, or scintillation counters. Dosimeters measure an absolute dose received over a period. The ion chamber dosimeters resemble pens and can be attached to a person's clothing. Personal photographic dosimeters enclose a piece of photographic film, which will be exposed as radiation passes through it. The ion chamber dosimeters must be recharged periodically, and record the result. Personal photographic dosimeters should be developed as a photographic emulsion so that exposures can be counted and recorded; Once developed, they are discarded. Another type of dosimeter is the TLD (Thermoluminescent Dosimeter). These dosimeters contain crystals that emit visible light when heated, in direct proportion to their exposure to total radiation. Like ion chamber dosimeters, TLDs can be reused after they have been 'read'. Geiger counters and scintillation counters measure the radiation dose rate by ionization directly. Preferably, the radiation detector is a solid state device.

Upon radiation detection, the radiation detector can transmit the detection to the processor 205. The processor 205 can store the detection in the data storage unit 230 or transmit a message regarding the detection to the operation center 105. The processor 205 or the operation center 105 can evaluate the detection and act in accordance with the purpose of the radiation detector.

For example, if the radiation detector detects radiation above a threshold level, the processor 205 or the operation center 105 may generate an alert that there are unsafe radiation levels.

In several embodiments, at least one sensor 215 is a motion detector. The motion detector can be a radar based motion detector, a photo-sensor motion detector, a passive infrared motion detector, a magnetic motion detector, a pressure sensitive motion detector, or any other capable device of detecting the movement of objects. The motion detector can be used, for example, to count the number of vehicles passing through an intersection to control a traffic light, to prevent alteration as described above, for safety purposes, and / or to Control public lighting. The motion detector can be placed inside the monitoring device or outside the monitoring device. Upon motion detection, the motion detector can transmit the detection to the processor 205. The processor 205 can store the detection in data storage unit 230 or transmit a message regarding the detection to the operation center 105.

The processor 205 or the operation center 105 can evaluate the detection and act in accordance with the purpose of the motion detector. For example, if the motion detector detects a predetermined number of vehicles that have passed the monitoring device, the processor 205 or the operation center 105 may cause a traffic light to change from green to red. As a second example, if the motion detector detects a movement after the predetermined time, for example after sunset, the processor 205 or the operation center 105 may cause the street lighting near the monitoring device to illuminate for a predetermined period .

In several embodiments, at least one sensor 215 is an inclination meter. The inclination meter can be a pendulum, a water tube, a bubble level meter, and / or an electronic MEMS meter. The inclination meter may be located in devices within the system, such as, but not limited to, pipes, fire hydrants, meters, valves, public service posts, sewer covers, and lighting posts. The inclination meter can send a message to processor 205 when the sensor detects an inclination beyond a threshold value. The processor 205 can then evaluate the inclination to determine if there is a problem or can forward the message to the operation center 105 for evaluation. Upon detection of undesirable inclination, at least one of the processor 205 or the operation center 105 can generate an alert that there is an undesirable inclination. For example, if a public service post is hit by a vehicle, the incline meter will indicate that the public service post is tilted to an undesirable level and the operations center 105 can alert the municipality to send a repair crew to Assess the situation and repair the public service post.

In several embodiments, at least one sensor 215 is a proximity sensor. The proximity sensor can use electromagnetic technology, electrostatic technology, infrared technology, or a touch switch. The proximity sensor can detect if the devices are properly closed if the devices are in improper contact. The proximity sensor can send a message to processor 205 when the proximity sensor detects proximity beyond a threshold value. The processor 205 can then assess the proximity to determine if there is a problem or can forward the message to the operation center 105 for evaluation. Upon detection of undesirable proximity, at least one of the processor 205 or the operation center 105 may generate an alert that there is an undesirable proximity. For example, if a valve is improperly closed, the proximity sensor will indicate that the valve is not closed and processor 205 may alert the municipality to take appropriate actions to close the valve.

In several embodiments, at least one sensor 215 is a visual or audio device. The device can be an infrared camera, a video camera, a fixed camera, a digital camera, a film camera, a mobile vision device, a microphone, a vibration detector, combinations thereof, or any other device capable of Acquire an image or sound. In one embodiment, the device is a digital video camera that takes video images continuously. In another embodiment, the device is a digital still camera that takes still images at regular intervals or by instruction from processor 205. In alternative embodiments, the device may be a transit camera and takes a picture when instructed by processor 205, for example to the determination that a vehicle passed a red light. In other embodiments, the device is used to perform visual inspections of the system infrastructure. For example, the field of vision of the device can include a device within the system that is susceptible to corrosion and the camera can provide an easy method to visually inspect any degradation of the device. The device can send image data to processor 205 where the data is stored in the data storage unit 230 or is transmitted to the operation center 105. In various embodiments, the image or sound data is transmitted continuously from the device to the processor 205 and from the processor 205 to the operation center 105. The data stream may be immediate or delayed. The device may be located in the monitoring device, close to the monitoring device, or within the monitoring device with a portion of the device extending outside the monitoring device or with a hole in the monitoring device through which the device can get images or sounds. In certain modalities, the device is placed in an activator. The trigger can be moved to reposition the field of view of the device. The activator can be moved by indication from the processor 205 or it can move autonomously. In modalities where the activator moves autonomously, the movement can be continuous or sporadic.

In several embodiments, at least one sensor 215 is a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver. In one embodiment, the GPS receiver is located in devices within the system 100, such as, but not limited to, pipes, fire hydrants, meters, valves, public service posts, sewer covers, and lighting posts. The GPS receiver can send a message to processor 205 indicating the GPS location. The processor 205 can transmit the message to the operation center 105 for evaluation, conformation and documentation. Upon unexpected GPS detection, at least one of the processor 205 or the operation center 105 may generate an alert that the GPS receiver has moved, possibly indicating that the device has been moved, altered, or stolen. Additionally, GPS location can be used, for example, by emergency services personnel to locate fire hydrants, or repair crews to determine the location of a buried device. In such modalities, the operation center 105 may distribute the information to emergency services personnel or repair crews to easily locate the device. Distribution can occur through any method, which includes but is not limited to, verbally, through a telecommunication network (for example for a telephone

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......- ;; ; _{Your S} r _S ; _M Q smart or laptop), or through shortwave radio. In modalities where the monitoring device is moving with the fluid flow, the sensor can provide updated locations of the monitoring device to track, for example, the flow or level of contamination within the flow.

Other possible sensors 215 connected to the monitoring device unit 200 may include, but are not limited to, flow rate meters, counterflow meters, system status monitors, and energy level monitors.

Figure 3 is a schematic of a control device 300. The control device 300 includes a processor 305. The processor 305 is coupled to at least one output port 310 to control an output device 340. The processor 305 is coupled also to a transceiver 320 to send and receive signals. The processor 305 is communicatively coupled with the output port 310. The output port 310 is connected to at least one output device 340. Each output device 340 may have the same purpose or each output device 340 may have a different purpose, or combinations thereof. The output devices 340 may be located within the control device 300 or external to the control device 300, as shown. In addition, the output devices 340 may be fixed to the control device 300 or may be remote from the control device 300. The output devices 340 communicate with the output port 310 through wired or wireless communication channels. In several embodiments, the output devices 340 are susceptible to bidirectional communication. In several embodiments, the control device 300 is an integral part of a monitoring device. In such embodiments, the control device 300 and the monitoring device may share the same processor and / or transceiver.

In several embodiments, processor 305 is coupled to a data storage unit 330 that can be a database in certain modes. The data storage unit 330 can store instructions from the processor 305 on how to control the output devices 340. In various embodiments, the processor 305 is coupled to a power source 335. The power source 335 can be any device capable of energizing the processor 305 and any devices attached to the processor 305. For example, the power source 335 can be a battery, solar panel layout, wind turbine, water turbine, lines electrical or combinations thereof. In several embodiments, there is also a backup power source, such as a battery.

In several embodiments, at least one output device 340 is an activator control device. The activator control device can control any type of activator, which includes but is not limited to an alteration prevention device, a closing device, a camera movement device, a fire hydrant nut opening device , or a valve. The trigger control device can control the trigger autonomously or by indication from processor 305. For example, upon receipt of a signal that a particular event has been detected, processor 305 can send an instruction to the control device of activator to act in a particular way. Similarly, in certain modes the control signal may come from the operation center 105. The activator can be mechanical, electrical or a combination thereof.

In several embodiments, at least one output device 340 is an alarm.

The alarm may be a visual alarm, an audible alarm, a tactile alarm (i.e., vibration), or a combination thereof. The alarm can be located inside the monitoring device, outside the monitoring device, in the operations center

105, away from the system, or any other location sufficient to alert. In addition, there may be more than one alarm in different locations. For example, in modes where there is a smoke detector, there may be an audible alarm located inside the fire detector to alert people around the monitoring device of a potential fire, there may be an audible alarm at the fire station to alert the fire department of the potential fire, and there may be a visual alarm in the gas public service company to indicate that the gas flow will close in the vicinity of the potential fire. In several modalities the alarm is controlled by the processor 305, while in other modalities the alarm is controlled by the operation center 105. In several modalities, the alarm has a locally controllable on / off switch.

In several embodiments, at least one output device 340 is an alteration prevention device. The alteration prevention device may be a mechanical closure, an alarm, a light, an electric shock generator, a retention device, an electrical closure, or any other device capable of preventing alteration. The alteration prevention device may only deter the alteration or may incapacitate the person who is attempting to alter the device, depending on the level of security. In certain embodiments the alteration prevention device is controlled by the processor 305, while in other embodiments the alteration prevention device is controlled by the operation center 105.

In several embodiments, at least one output device 340 is a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) device. The RFID device can transmit information about the device to which it is attached. For example, the RFID device can transmit manufacturer information, location information, date of last service, device information (for example manufacture, model, and / or year), current status (for example a valve can transmit if it is open or closed), etc. In

I certain modalities the RFID device is upgradeable through the processor 305 or through the operation center 105. The RFID device can be an active device (for example battery powered) or passive (for example that requires an external source to cause the signal transmission

EXAMPLES:

A description system is monitoring a water distribution infrastructure. The system is used to autonomously control the water pressure inside the system. This system includes a number of water meters distributed through the infrastructure, transmitting real-time usage information to a control center. Upon determination by the operations center that there is a low use of the system (for example, at night) based on the information received by a predetermined number of water meters, the operation center causes the pumps that supply the pressure inside the system reduce or stop pumping. In this way the electricity used by the pumps is cut while maintaining sufficient pressure through the infrastructure to meet any water needs. The determination to reduce or cease pumping is also based on the information received from the pressure sensors distributed throughout the infrastructure. For example, if the pressure inside the infrastructure exceeds a threshold value, the operations center causes the pumps to reduce or stop pumping.

In another example, the system is used to help maintain the infrastructure. Water pipes and valves are often buried making it difficult to locate, assess the status of the devices, and repair them if necessary. Using an example of the system described above, each device is equipped with a device monitoring. The monitoring device, for example, can monitor corrosion using a corrosion monitor, geographic location using a GPS receiver, and leaks using a leak detector. Upon detection of corrosion and / or leakage, the monitoring device sends a message to the operations center where the information is analyzed. The operations center is able to make a determination of whether corrosion and / or leakage is severe enough to guarantee repair, if corrosion and / or leakage will be observed to determine if it worsens, or if corrosion can be ignored and / or leak The operations center will also alert a person of the situation for further evaluation.

If it is determined that corrosion and / or leakage will be repaired, the operations center distributes the information to a repair crew and redirects water flow away from the device. Such information may include location of the device, based on the data received by the GPS receiver, problem associated with the device, device information (eg, manufacture, model and / or year), and so on. The monitoring device may also be equipped with an RFID transmitter, which transmits at least part of the above information. The repair crew receives the information on a smartphone, laptop, or other device capable of receiving such information. Upon completion of the repair, the operations center updates the system to indicate a new date of last repair for the device.

In another example, the system is monitored by several entities within a municipality at the same time. For example, a fire department, a public gas service, a public water service, a public electricity service, and a traffic control center monitor the system concurrently. Upon detection of smoke by means of a monitoring device, the control center alerts each entity of a potential fire. The location of the potential fire is determined by cross-reference of the ID number of the monitoring device with a search table or based on information received from a GPS receiver. The fire department uses the location information to send emergency service personnel near the potential fire. The gas company uses the location information to divert or cut off the gas flow to the vicinity of the potential fire. The public water service uses the location information to divert the water to or increase the water pressure in the vicinity of the potential fire and also determines whether any fire hydrant in the vicinity of the potential fire is potentially damaged (for example, is inclined to an unusual angle, is receiving little or no water pressure, or has been altered) based on the information received from the monitoring devices attached to the fire hydrant. The location of the fire hydrant is determined by cross-reference of the ID number of the monitoring device with a search table or based on information received from a GPS receiver. The public water service automatically alerts the fire department about what fire hydrant to use. The public water service also disables any alteration prevention devices associated with fire hydrant. The public electricity service receives a signal that additional pressure may be needed within the water system and provides an increased electrical charge for the water pumps. Additionally, the traffic control center adjusts traffic lights en route from the fire station to the proximity of the potential fire to help fire trucks arrive quickly and safely.

In another example, the system is used to monitor the contamination of the fluid flowing through the system. The system includes pressure sensors, leak detectors and pollution detectors. Leaks within the system can cause a fall iS f /> I i ......- +: X · c A »Η π <* · * S¿ÍSS^{, mB}

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of pressure through the system which can lead to contaminants being carried into the system. For example, if a pipe is underwater and the pressure inside the pipe drops below the pressure outside the pipe, the external water will flow into the pipe. Therefore, the system has several monitoring devices to verify said potential or actual contamination. Pressure sensors will indicate if the pressure inside the system drops below a threshold level at which contaminants can be entrained into the system. Leak detectors will indicate that there is a leak through which contaminants can enter the system. While contamination detectors will indicate if there is contamination within the system, indicating a possible alteration of the system infrastructure.

Other modalities and uses of the systems, methods, and devices described will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice described herein. All references cited herein, which include all United States and foreign publications, patents and patent applications, are specifically and fully incorporated by reference. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered only as illustrative with the true spirit and scope of the description indicated by the following claims. In addition, the term comprising "includes the terms consisting of" and consisting essentially of. All examples illustrate possible modalities although they should not be considered as limiting the scope of the description.