AU2020100018A4 - System and method for flushing a water line - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for flushing water from a water line adapted for discharging pressurized water from a portion of a pressurized water distribution system, the system comprising: a water sampling apparatus adapted to be fluidly coupled to the water line for obtaining water quality parameters corresponding to a sample of the pressurized water from the water line; a data transmitter for transmitting the water quality parameters to a processor configured to receive and process the water quality parameters for one or more samples sampled by the sampling apparatus; and a non-volatile memory device in communication with the processor, the memory configured to store one or more rules associated with the water quality parameters; and a flushing valve fluidly coupled with the water line for flushing water from the water line upon actuation of the flushing valve actuating device; wherein the processor is in signal communication with the actuator configured to actuate the flush actuating device and initiate a flushing operation when one or more of said rules associated with the water quality parameters are satisfied.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FLUSHING A WATER LINE

TECHNICAL FIELD [001] The present invention relates to a method and system for flushing a mains water line and a method of semi-automatically flushing a water line. The method and system is particularly (though not exclusively) directed to a web-based or cloud based system that allows a water line to be flushed.

BACKGROUND [002] Any references to methods, apparatus or documents of the prior art are not to be taken as constituting any evidence or admission that they formed, or form part of the common general knowledge.

[003] Water distribution systems for residential and commercial areas often incorporate low flow or dead-end portions by design. Water mains are usually sized to meet peak water demand. Such design features can have the effect of dramatically reducing water flow velocity and potentially increasing instances of poor water quality areas within a water distribution system in low demand situations. Water distribution systems can also experience large seasonal fluctuations in demand.

[004] The water entering the mains line which delivers water is usually treated and is of a very high quality. However, over time, the physical, chemical and microbiological quality can deteriorate if the water is slow moving. In the absence of any further treatment or flushing, such deterioration is likely to result in the end user receiving water which is not fit for consumption. This problem becomes further exasperated

2020100018 07 Jan 2020 when water from the mains line is being delivered by sub-distribution lines to a facility that generally require water to be of consistent quality.

[005] It is known that low water flow conditions and an increase in water retention time within dead end portions of the water distribution system have the potential to degrade the chemical and microbiological quality of the water transported through the distribution system. Degradation in water quality can also result from prolonged exposure of the water under low flow conditions to contaminants and sediments in the piping system. Disinfectants are commonly used in an effort to control bacterial growth in the water. However, low water flow conditions in the dead end portions can result in the disinfectant dissipating which in turn promotes bacterial growth.

[006] One of the currently known methods for addressing water quality concerns particularly in the dead end portions involves flushing of the water line on a periodic basis. A typical flushing operation involves periodic water quality testing of the water in the water line which involves collection of a sample of the water by a servicing personnel and sending the sample to a testing facility to assess the water quality. If the water quality does not meet the requisite standards then the personnel comes back and activates a flushing valve to flush out the poor quality water from the water line to improve the water quality in the water line. This method is highly labour intensive and extremely time consuming. Therefore, it is desirable to provide an improved method and system for flushing water.

2020100018 07 Jan 2020

SUMMARY OF INVENTION [007] In an aspect, the invention provides a system for flushing water from a water line adapted for discharging pressurized water from a portion of a pressurized water distribution system, the system comprising:

a water sampling apparatus adapted to be fluidly coupled to the water line for obtaining water quality parameters corresponding to a sample of the pressurized water from the water line;

a data transmitter for transmitting the water quality parameters to a processor configured to receive and process the water quality parameters for one or more samples sampled by the sampling apparatus; and a non-volatile memory device in communication with the processor, the memory configured to store one or more rules associated with the water quality parameters; and a flushing valve fluidly coupled with the water line for flushing water from the water line upon actuation of the flushing valve actuating device;

wherein the processor is in signal communication with the actuator configured to actuate the flush actuating device and initiate a flushing operation when one or more of said rules associated with the water quality parameters are satisfied.

[008] In an embodiment, the water sampling apparatus is adapted to measure one or more of the following parameters:

(a) temperature of water;

(b) pH of water;

(c) oxidation reduction potential (ORP);

(d) hypochlorous-acid concentration;

2020100018 07 Jan 2020 (e) disinfectant residual (f) TC concentration;

(g) turbidity;

(h) transient pressure (changes in pressure over time).

[009] In an embodiment, the system further comprises a user input interface to receive user input for inputting or choosing one or more of said rules stored on the memory device.

[010] In an embodiment, the user input interface is located remotely relative to the sampling apparatus, the user input interface adapted to receive input for controlling operation of the water sampling apparatus.

] [011] In an embodiment, the processor is adapted to save data related to the measured water quality parameters.

[012] In an embodiment, the system further comprises a controller in signal communication with the actuator and the processor to actuate the flush actuating device and initiate a flushing operation.

[013] In an embodiment, the data transmitter is adapted to be in wired or wireless communication with a remote server.

[014] In an embodiment, sampling rate or sampling frequency of the water sampling apparatus is variable.

2020100018 07 Jan 2020 [015] In an embodiment, the system further comprises a pressure controlling valve for controlling water pressure in the water line wherein a pressure controller controlling the pressure controlling valve is in communication with the processor for varying transient pressure in the water line when one or more of said rules associated with the water quality parameters have been satisfied.

[016] In an embodiment, the memory device or an additional memory device includes one or more flushing programs for operating the flushing valve.

[017] In another aspect, the invention also provides a method for flushing water from a water line adapted for discharging pressurized water from a portion of a pressurized water distribution system, the method comprising the step of:

sampling the pressurised water from the water line using a water sampling apparatus fluidly coupled to the water line and obtaining water quality parameters corresponding to the sample;

transmitting the water quality parameters using a data transmitter to a processor and processing the water quality parameters for one or more samples sampled by the sampling apparatus to determine if one or more pre-determine rules associated with the water quality parameters are satisfied wherein said rules are stored on a non-volatile memory device in communication with the processor;

providing a flushing valve fluidly coupled with the water line for flushing water from the water line upon actuation of the flushing valve actuating device; and actuating the flush actuating device and initiating a flushing operation when one or more of said rules associated with the water quality parameters are satisfied.

2020100018 07 Jan 2020

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [018] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

Figure 1 is a schematic view of a water monitoring and flushing system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a detailed view of the sampling apparatus 120 shown in Figure 1.

Figure 3 is a flowchart depicting an exemplary and non-limiting method of operating the system 100.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [019] Figures 1 to 3 illustrate an embodiment of a water monitoring and flushing system 100. The system 100 is adapted to be coupled with a water line such as 110 that is coupled with a pressurised water distribution system. In the presently described embodiment, the main water line 110 is connected to a main water distribution line 180 via a pressure controller 175.

[020] The system 100 includes a water sampling line 112 that is adapted to be connected to a water sampling port of water sampling apparatus 120. The sampling port allows water from the water line 110 to be sampled on a periodic basis (based on the parameters programmed by the user-as will be explained in the foregoing sections)

2020100018 07 Jan 2020 for obtaining water quality parameters corresponding to one or more samples of the pressurized water from the water line 110.

[021] Referring to Figure 2, the water sampling apparatus 120 may include a plurality of sampling probes in corresponding sampling chambers such as S1, S2, S3, S4, S5 which are adapted to sample water quality parameters of a sample of water being sampled. In the preferred embodiment, the multiple sampling probes S may be connected in series such that water from the sampling line flows from one sampling chamber to another sampling chamber (in series) to carry out sampling of the water. Probes can be used to measure one or more of the following parameters: (a) temperature of water; (b) pH of water; (c) oxidation reduction potential (ORP); (d) hypochlorous-acid concentration; (e) disinfectant residual; (f) TC concentration; (g) turbidity.

[022] Before entering into a description of the operation of the system 100 shown in the figures, a brief discussion of ORP measurement is in order. ORP is a measurement of the electron exchange potential which occurs in an ionic reaction. Since most water distribution systems distribute ever-changing water, there typically is an undesired equilibrium created. The ORP measurement allows control of the electrochemical equilibrium.

[023] The flow of water in mains is highly turbulent. Consequently, any contaminant rapidly forms a well-mixed “plug” that maintains its initial concentration for a time that is long compared with the time of residence in the pipes. In one scenario, the probes may detect a 30 mV or more rise or drop in redox potential due to the introduction of a contaminant. Scores of other harmful biological substances or live biological organisms would have a similar effect on redox potential, either by bulk reduction of

2020100018 07 Jan 2020 the chlorine or by co-introduction of a chemical reducing agent that removes the chlorine shield and thus protects biological substances introduced at very low concentrations. The one or more probes may detect the loss of chlorination regardless of cause, which would allow the bloom of harmful microbes normally present in water or absorbed into the slime that coats the interior of water pipes.

[024] The ORP probes may be non-specific thereby providing a broad response to the introduction of biological or chemical reducing agents into chlorinated water. The ORP probe in one embodiment may comprise a pair of electrodes: one is a Pt or graphite coated electrode; the other is a harmless reference electrode that is the type of an Ag/AgCI electrode used in medical procedures. The probes in various embodiments comprise a pair of electrodes that, under near-equilibrium conditions, output a potential proportional to the amount and strength of oxidizing material in the water. The potential or oxidation potential is not sensitive to the nature of the oxidant, and responds to all commonly used disinfectants including elemental chlorine, sodium hypochlorite, chloramines, chlorine dioxide, hydrogen peroxide or ozone, or even elemental oxygen. The ORP probes may be enhanced by combination with pH sensors, or specific ion electrodes for elemental chlorine or other toxic ions or compounds. The probes positioned in the sampling chambers S1 to S5 may operate as autonomous units. One or more of the sampling chambers S1 to S5 may measure redox potential of the sampled water and communicate water sampling data as outlined in the following sections.

[025] The sampling probes may be in signal communication with an on-board processor P which may be used for receiving and processing the measured water quality parameters (as measured by the one or more sampling probes). Operating and

2020100018 07 Jan 2020 processing instructions for operating the sampling probes may be written onto a nonvolatile memory device that is communication with the processor P for allowing operation of the sampling apparatus 120. A data transmitter T is also provided for transmitting the processed water quality parameters to and from the processor P via a network N to a remote server or computing device. In the preferred embodiment, the operation of the water sampling apparatus 120 may be controlled or programmed from the remote server or computing device (preferably a cloud-based or web based interface) thereby allowing operating programs of the sampling apparatus 120 to be varied from a remote location.

[026] Once the information related to the water quality parameters has been received at the remotely located server, the server may process the information in accordance with one or more pre-determined rules. By way of example, a rule may be saved onto the memory device to check if the pH level of the sampled water is below a predetermined threshold level. Similarly, another rule may be saved onto the memory device to check if the ORP of the sampled water is above or below a pre-determined threshold level. Similarly, a combination involving multiple rules may be saved on the memory device. Furthermore, these rules may be routinely changed from the remote location depending on the specific requirements of the water distribution and management system.

[027] The processor P and the memory device M may also be accessed from a remote location via the network N using a user input interface linked with the remote server or remote computing device to check the operating status of the sampling apparatus 120, change or manage sampling programs and configurations and update the operating firmware of the processor P.

2020100018 07 Jan 2020 [028] The system 100 also includes a flushing line 114 coupled with a flushing apparatus 130 that includes a flushing valve F for flushing water out of the water line 100 when actuated using an actuation device. The operation of the flushing actuation device may be controlled by a controller C that is also adapted for remote communication with the remotely located server and computing devices via network N. Advantageously, the processor and the memory device of the remote server and/or the remote computing device may be programmed to send a signal to the controller C to actuate the flush actuating device and initiate a flushing operation when one or more of the rules (as discussed in the previous sections) associated with the water quality parameters are satisfied. One of the advantages of providing such a system is that the system 100 can be specifically programmed to trigger a flushing operation (involving flushing the mains line for a fixed or variable time period) by actuating the flushing valve F when one or more water sampling parameters have fluctuated above or below a pre-determined threshold value almost immediately (in a matter of a few seconds) without any undue delay. Providing a system such as system 100 that can instantaneously trigger a flushing program can avoid significant health risks associated with water of questionable quality being supplied to buildings such as but not limited to hospitals or any other building facility and sites.

[029] In some embodiments, the sampling apparatus 120 may also measure changes in pressure over a period of time (known as ‘transient pressure’) in the water line 110. A specific type of water related event may be detected by initially determining a predefined transient pressure wave signatures to set up a database and then matching those predefined signatures with actual transient pressure measurements. A transient pressure wave signature indicated by the output signal from the sampling apparatus

2020100018 07 Jan 2020

120 can be compared to the predefined transient pressure wave signatures that were stored or saved either on the memory device M or on the remotely located server. Furthermore, a flushing program may be triggered by the controller C in response to detection of any specific transient pressure readings.

[030] The remotely located server may also control a pressure controller V that is directly linked with pressure controlling valve 175 that controls the water pressure from the water distribution system 180 into the water line 110. In some instances, the system 100 may allow the pressure controlling valve 175 to be in communication with the server or a remotely located computing device for varying pressure in the water line when one or more of the above-mentioned rules associated with the water quality parameters have been satisfied. It is expected that actuation of the pressure controlling valve 175 is likely to have an effect on the transient pressure characteristics sensed by the sampling apparatus 120.

[031] Figure 3 shows an exemplary flowchart demonstrating the operation of system 100 in accordance with a preferred method. An initial step would require an installer or user to provide input for choosing or setting the Rules that should trigger a flushing operation (flushing the water line via flush line 114). As previously discussed, multiple rules may be simultaneously entered into the user input interface. In some embodiments, the user input interface may be provided in the form of a website that is in direct communication with a cloud-based server.

[032] Once the rules have been entered, the program may be commenced to continuously check if any one or more of the Rules associated with water quality parameters have been satisfied. Such a process typically involves the server receiving

2020100018 07 Jan 2020 water sampling data from the water sampling apparatus 120 over the network N and running a query to check if any one or more of the pre-set Rules associated with the water sampling data have been satisfied. For example, one of the pre-set rules entered by the user may involve checking if the pH value of the sampled water has dropped below and the ORP of the sampled water has also fallen above or below a set threshold value. If the one or more Rules are satisfied, then a signal may be sent by the remote server to the flushing actuator controller C to trigger a flushing event by actuating the flushing actuating device. In some instances, an electrical solenoid may be linked with the flushing valve to trigger the flushing event when the one or more Rules are satisfied.

[033] It is expected that flushing a quantity of the water from the water line 110 followed by inflow of fresh disinfected water from the water distribution system 180 into the water line would improve the water quality parameters which would in turn result in improving the overall water quality. Once the overall water quality has been improved, it is expected that the pre-set rules would no longer be satisfied which in turn would result in the flushing events not being triggered by the controller C (in signal communication with processor P or with the remotely located server or computing device).

[034] Referring to Figure 1, it is also important to appreciate that in some embodiments, the controller C for the flush actuating device of the flushing apparatus 130 may communicate directly with the processor P from the sampling apparatus 120 as well as being directly in communication with a remotely located device. Such an embodiment of the system 100 would provide a more compact and portable configuration.

2020100018 07 Jan 2020 [035] The processor P and the data transmitter T for the sampling apparatus 120 can be configured to send and receive signals. Similarly, the remote server or remote computing device in signal communication with flushing apparatus 130 also includes a processor and memory device and is configured to send and receive signals from the flushing apparatus 130. The controller C may be enabled to actuate one or more flushing valve actuators upon the receiving of either remote or local signals. A system within the technology can be equipped with components to enable operation of various programs or Rules, as shown in Figure 2. As shown, the memory M for the sampling apparatus can provide storage for the operating system, device programs, data, and the like. The operating system can be generally configured to manage other sampling programs that are also stored in memory and executable on the processor P. The operating system can handle requests for services made by programs through predefined program interfaces. More specifically, the operating system can typically determine the order in which multiple programs are executed on the processor P and the execution time allotted for each program, manages the sharing of memory among multiple programs, handles input and output to and from other device subsystems, and so forth. In addition, operators can interact directly with the operating system through an interface, either remotely or locally, typically including a keyboard or keypad and a display screen. The operating system, programs, data, and other information can be stored in memory, RAM, read-only memory (ROM), or another suitable storage element (not shown).

[036] The remote computing device may take the form of a remotely located server or a remotely located computing device such as a portable laptop computer or a handheld smart phone or tablet with a touch sensitive display which can be easily operated

2020100018 07 Jan 2020 by a remotely located user for controlling the operation of the system 100. The touch sensitive display or a keyboard may be used for allowing the user to provide user input.

[037] Signal communication with the remotely located server may be carried out through a cellular network, using networks such as GSM, GPRS, 3G 4G or 5G networks. The technology may also be configured to send and receive serial signal communications via one or more wireless or optical networks. The technology can also be configured to communicate with a remote device via an Ethernet connection, a 400900 MHz radio, a microwave radio or a BLUETOOTH® device. Other signal connectivity methods may also be also be used to implement the system 100.

[038] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. The term “comprises” and its variations, such as “comprising” and “comprised of’ is used throughout in an inclusive sense and not to the exclusion of any additional features.

[039] It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect.

[040] The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims (11)

1. A system for flushing water from a water line adapted for discharging pressurized water from a portion of a pressurized water distribution system, the system comprising:

a water sampling apparatus adapted to be fluidly coupled to the water line for obtaining water quality parameters corresponding to a sample of the pressurized water from the water line;

a data transmitter for transmitting the water quality parameters to a processor configured to receive and process the water quality parameters for one or more samples sampled by the sampling apparatus; and a non-volatile memory device in communication with the processor, the memory configured to store one or more rules associated with the water quality parameters; and a flushing valve fluidly coupled with the water line for flushing water from the water line upon actuation of the flushing valve actuating device;

wherein the processor is in signal communication with the actuator configured to actuate the flush actuating device and initiate a flushing operation when one or more of said rules associated with the water quality parameters are satisfied.

2. A system in accordance with claim 1 wherein the water sampling apparatus is adapted to measure one or more of the following parameters:

(a) temperature of water;

(b) pH of water;

(c) oxidation reduction potential (ORP);

(d) transient pressure;

2020100018 07 Jan 2020 (e) hypochlorous-acid concentration;

(f) disinfectant residual (f) TO concentration;

(g) turbidity.

3. A system in accordance with claim 1 or claim 2 further comprising a user input interface to receive user input for inputting or choosing one or more of said rules stored on the memory device.

4. A system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims wherein the user input interface is located remotely relative to the sampling apparatus, the user input interface adapted to receive input for controlling operation of the water sampling apparatus.

]

5. A system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims wherein the processor is adapted to save data related to the measured water quality parameters.

6. A system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims further comprising a controller in electrical communication with the actuator and the processor to actuate the flush actuating device and initiate a flushing operation.

7. A system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims wherein the data transmitter is adapted to be in wired or wireless communication with a remote server.

2020100018 07 Jan 2020

8. A system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims wherein sampling rate or sampling frequency of the water sampling apparatus is variable.

9. A system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims further comprising a pressure controlling valve for controlling water pressure in the water line wherein a pressure controller controlling the pressure controlling valve is in communication with the processor for varying pressure in the water line when one or more of said rules associated with the water quality parameters have been satisfied.

10. A system in accordance with any one of the preceding claims wherein the memory device or an additional memory device includes one or more flushing programs for operating the flushing valve.

11. A method for flushing water from a water line adapted for discharging pressurized water from a portion of a pressurized water distribution system, the method comprising the step of:

sampling the pressurised water from the water line using a water sampling apparatus fluidly coupled to the water line and obtaining water quality parameters corresponding to the sample;

transmitting the water quality parameters using a data transmitter to a processor and processing the water quality parameters for one or more samples sampled by the sampling apparatus to determine if one or more pre-determine rules associated with the water quality parameters are satisfied wherein said rules are stored on a non-volatile memory device in communication with the processor;

2020100018 07 Jan 2020 providing a flushing valve fluidly coupled with the water line for flushing water from the water line upon actuation of the flushing valve actuating device; and actuating the flush actuating device and initiating a flushing operation when one or more of said rules associated with the water quality parameters are satisfied.