BRPI1106204B1 - gas leak sensor device, its use, system for gas leak monitoring and monitoring, process for its installation and / or maintenance - Google Patents

Abstract

GAS LEAKAGE SENSOR DEVICE, ITS USE, SYSTEM FOR MONITORING AND GAS LEAKAGE ALARM, PROCESS FOR US INSTALLATION AND / OR MAINTENANCE. The present invention provides devices and systems for the remote sensing of gas leaks installed in specific points of subterranean energy distribution and transport networks, which are integrated with wireless communication systems. The system provides a reliable network for transporting information to a control center, providing real-time monitoring and monitoring of gas leak points. The installation and / or maintenance process of the system of the invention also provides several technical advantages, including mapping to maintenance execution and also a method for public inventory of events and accidents with leaks from power distribution pipes.

Description

Field of the Invention

The present invention belongs to the field of devices, their uses and systems for monitoring and alarming gas leaks in real time. More specifically, the invention relates to a system that comprises devices for remote sensing of gas leaks installed in specific points of underground energy distribution and transport networks, which are integrated with wireless communication systems. The system provides a reliable network for transporting information to a control center, providing real-time monitoring and alarm of gas leak points. The process of installing and / or maintaining the system of the invention also provides several technical advantages, including mapping and performing maintenance and also a method for public inventory of events and accidents with leaks from power distribution pipes.

Background of the Invention

Leaks in natural gas networks must be eliminated by blocking the feeder pipe and repairing the pipe or component thereof. However, these leaks must be previously identified in a safe way and located precisely for taking these actions.

Currently, the methodologies found commercially for identifying and locating natural gas leaks include local actions, with the leak being identified only in the place where it occurs and originated through complaints. Natural gas receives a characteristic odor at its origin to allow its identification in case of leaks. After complaints, specialized teams go to the site to drill the ground, check the suspected occurrence and identify the location of the leak with sufficient precision for the maintenance team to carry out the repair. Corrective action is taken only by a second team that goes to the site after confirmation and location of the leak.

Natural gas distribution companies have been using geographic information systems (GIS) to monitor network parameters. These systems superimpose satellite images or aerial photos on a detailed cartography to visualize the map of the natural gas distribution networks and provide information on these networks, such as extension, material (steel or polyethylene), pressure class, diameter, status of the network, as-built and fueled customers. This information is combined with a structured database, which allows immediate visualization, via computer, of all this information of interest on natural gas networks. However, online and remote monitoring of leaks in networks is not included in geographic information systems. Thus, there is a lack of an efficient system for online monitoring of leaks for natural gas distribution networks.

In the patent field, some documents describe leak detection systems. The references that circumscribe the invention, without however anticipating it or even suggesting it, are listed below.

US 2007/0000310 A1 describes a gas leak detection system that has wireless communication between the sensor and the reading module. However, this system has no resemblance to the present invention, as the system in this document uses a gas leak sensor through Helium gas mass spectrometry with the wireless communication capability of this sensor with a control and reading unit. data, both of which are in the same usage environment. The present invention is not to be confused with the system of said document, among other technical reasons, because: a) the mass spectrometry sensor needs an operator during the measurement for Helium gas injection and control of the parameters, while the present invention operates autonomously; b) the sensor of the referred document is not suitable for operation directly buried underground, being large, open and with application restricted to environments where an operator cannot be left during the measurement, as in a vacuum chamber for example, then the communication with the wireless module it is justified for short distances. The sensor of the invention, on the other hand, was developed to support operation buried directly in the ground or subsoil, being preferably waterproof; c) the system control unit described in the referred document must be close to the sensor and is dedicated to it. In the present invention, on the contrary, the system works with only one remote control unit interconnected with up to thousands of sensors at the same time. In addition, the sensor in said document requires operation by specialists on demand, while the one in the present invention operates autonomously without interruption; d) the sensor of the document US 2007/0000310 A1 measures the amount of gas that is leaking, that is, it is a gas flow meter, while the present invention has a leak sensor that warns about leakage; e) the sensor of the referred document needs the control unit in the same place to operate, at most between 20 and 50 feet away. In contrast, the system of the invention uses a communication interface and the data is analyzed in a control center remotely, for example via the web, including for access and alarm in any desired place.

EP 1273897 A2 describes a numerical system for detecting and locating liquid leaks based on the Wheatstone bridge imbalance, where the leak is determined by measuring the resistance and impedance parameters of the bridge in question. This document presents some variations of sensors and has an undefined communication with a measuring equipment that interprets the variations of the bridge parameters. These sensors are based on controlled laboratory conditions to function, as they are very sensitive to electromagnetic noise, humidity and temperature. In this way, they have no resemblance to the present invention proposed here, which provides for operation in conditions of varied and even aggressive environments, and with interconnection of sensors with robust technology to noise and interference.

The art systems for monitoring gas leakage, whether remotely or not, have in common the same motivations, namely, to avoid accidents caused by leaks and possible explosions when in contact with heat or fire sources. In general, it appears that the previous technology allows monitoring of leaks in a generic way in specific cases or is intended to measure the amount of gas that is leaking, where the most complete technologies of the current art describe systems interconnected by wire or cables and small and medium-sized areas, such as residential, commercial or industrial environments.

Thus, there is still a lack of efficient devices and systems for monitoring and alerting in real time of gas leaks in underground energy distribution networks in areas or devices where gas leaks may occur. There is also an evident lack of devices and / or systems integrated with a data communication system in the form of a wireless network, which provides for uninterrupted interconnection with a remote control center that enables improved leak management, minimizing occurrences or consequences undesirable.

Summary of the Invention

The present invention provides a system comprising devices and systems for the detection of gas leakage in real time in power distribution and transport pipelines and areas or apparatus. The system of the invention can be used by distribution companies and operators in large areas, such as, for example, in an entire city in which they operate, with the aid of remote devices for sensing gas leaks installed in specific points of the distribution network. energy. These devices integrated with wireless communication systems provide a network for transporting information to a control center, enabling real-time monitoring and alarm of gas leak points.

The invention provides an innovative system for the detection of gas leakage in real time in distribution pipes and energy transport and in any area or apparatus. In a preferred embodiment, the system of the present invention comprises remote devices for sensing gas leaks installed at specific points in an underground power distribution network and areas or devices from which gas leakage can occur, these remote sensing devices being integrated with wireless communication systems to establish a network for transporting information to a control center, which provides monitoring and alarm, preferably in a centralized and graphical way through georeferenced maps or as-built (construction plans), in in real time and remotely, from gas leaks in power distribution networks and areas or devices.

The system comprises a network of gas leak sensors for automation of warning signaling in underground pipes and areas or devices from which gas leakage can occur, using wireless communication technology, preferably, but not limited to this, through the use of systems in the IEEE 802.15.4 standard for digital wireless communication, associated with control software, monitoring and integration with the systems of gas companies, IEEE 802.15.4 standard outdoor routers and specific antennas. This system is integrated and encapsulated in airtight supports, with the application of special UV and IR and anti-bacterial sunscreens to be installed buried directly in the ground, which through the installation of router equipment in this same environment, will allow online monitoring in the office of the gas distribution company, in addition to monitoring the sensors with georeferenced location through the control software.

The wireless communication technologies for use in the present invention comprise the wireless communication means selected from: Wi-Fi; 3G; 4G; radio; zigbee; Bluetooth; the IEEE 802.15.4 standard; EDGE; ad hoc; WiMax; Wap; GSM; CDMA; UMTS; LTE; similar and their combinations.

As advantages of the invention on screen, we can highlight: - Online, remote, precise and safe location of the point of leakage of natural gas, for example, in a network of gas piping and / or areas and / or appliances from where it can gas leak occurs; - Monitoring online, remotely and through digital georeferenced maps of gas network leak points; - Interconnection of sensors with wireless communication technology to database systems that allow the monitoring of leaks from gas pipelines and / or areas and / or devices from which gas leakage may occur; - Agility in the maintenance and detection of leaks in the underground gas networks, apparent or not apparent; - Reduction of disturbances on public roads caused by numerous works on gas pipelines that result in traffic diversion and increased vehicle congestion; and - Reduction of interruptions in gas supply due to leaks in the distribution network. - therefore, one of the objects of the present invention is a device for detecting gas leakage in underground energy distribution pipes and / or areas and / or devices from which gas leakage may occur, comprising: a) at least one sensor device gas leak, preferably hermetic or robust for even harsh environmental conditions, such a device comprising or being integrated in b) at least one communication device with wireless technology, preferably coupled to an antenna optimized for each application and specific installation environments .

Another object of the present invention is a system for real-time monitoring and alarm of gas leakage in underground energy distribution networks and / or areas and / or devices from which gas leakage may occur, comprising: a) at least one gas leak sensor device, preferably airtight or robust for harsh environments, integrated with a wireless communications system including antenna, preferably optimized for each application or installation environment; b) at least one coordinating device or network router capable of interconnecting the remote sensors and the control and monitoring center; c) at least one remote control center, where such center will be responsible for the concentration and analysis of the signals sent and received from the installed sensor network, with the capacity to make decisions and request the necessary measures to the maintenance teams of the company responsible for the repair leaks;

This gas leak sensor device is directly connected to the wireless communication device and its antenna, forming a single encapsulated set or through extension connections. Preferably, independent modules are formed by merging them while still in manufacture, directly glued, riveted, screwed, traced, tied, rolled, stitched, welded or secured by any other means of joining these devices, both at the time of making them as in the field installation.

The gas leak sensor device and the wireless communication system can be presented in the most diverse shapes and sizes, being optionally buried directly, embedded in holes or walls or simply affixed in the desired places at different distances and depths that become necessary, or still be outdoors in a suitable position to detect a gas leak. Thus, an aspect of the present invention is the gas sensor, preferably airtight or robust for even harsh environmental conditions, incorporated into the wireless communication device and its respective antenna.

The invention also provides a system for detecting leakage in underground, hidden energy distribution and transport pipes and / or areas and / or devices from which gas leakage may occur, with wireless communication technology and remote monitoring and control center to signal gas leaks in real time and provide corrective actions immediately, both in urban and rural environments, without having to wait for a report, request from the population or an accident caused by this event.

The invention also provides a device, system and method for detecting gas leakage in underground or hidden energy distribution networks and / or areas and / or devices from which gas leakage may occur, with wireless technology through immediate signaling and safe, with great ecological appeal, as the chances of environmental accidents, accidents with pedestrians and users or noise and visual pollution are reduced.

The invention also provides a device, system and method for detecting gas leakage in underground or hidden power distribution networks and / or areas and / or devices from which gas leakage can occur with wireless technology, where any of the devices can be replaced in case of accidental damage through a specific sensor failure alarm system and its location on a map.

It is another object of the present invention to install and / or maintain a gas leak monitoring and / or alarm system. Said process provides several technical advantages, including the mapping and execution of maintenance and also a method for public inventory of events and accidents with leaks from power distribution pipes. In the process of the invention the installation of said device in the field, is carried out in the construction of the underground energy distribution network or after the pipe has been buried or hidden.

The invention also provides a method for accurate mapping, real-time control with decision making and automated maintenance request forwarding action in case of gas leak based on situational plants (as built) of the buried or hidden piping network , by reading the information contained in the servers of the monitoring and control center together with the use of a GPS receiver (Global Positioning System) that provides the latitude and longitude of the point in real time.

These and other objects of the invention will be better understood and valued from the detailed description below.

Brief Description of the Figures

Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment of the gas leak sensor device with wireless communication technology for an environment that is even aggressive or directly buried in the ground, where through the exploded view it is possible to observe the internal components of the device, their construction characteristics and seals that preferentially make it airtight. Indicated are: (50) gas leak sensor device; (1) antenna with constructive characteristics of omnidirectional irradiation, with protection against bad weather and which serves as a sensor cover (50); (2) signal interconnection connectors; (3) coaxial cable; (4) mechanical protection body made of HDPE; (5) rubber, silicone or similar o-ring sealing ring at the junction of components (1) and (4); (6) wireless communication device / technology; (7) gas leak sensor.

Figure 2 illustrates an embodiment of the gas leak sensor device with wireless communication technology installed directly buried in the ground and on a gas distribution pipe that is being monitored, where the gas leak sensor is observed next to the pipe and its antenna on the ground surface, with the ability to establish wireless communication to the central monitoring and remote control. They are indicated: (50) sensor device; (10) gas piping; (11) surface; (12) soil; (13) public walk or sidewalk.

Figure 3 illustrates a variation of encapsulation of the gas leak sensor with wireless communication technology for an even aggressive environment with simplified installation and directly fixed to the wall or the object to be monitored, where it is possible to observe the components in a non-limiting way of the device and its constructive characteristics. They are indicated: (51) gas leak sensor device; (20) removable antenna; (21) fixing bracket with screws, rivets, clamps, glues, welding; (22) variation in encapsulation.

Figure 4 illustrates a functioning model of the gas leak monitoring system through the block diagram referring to the components of the leak sensor network with wireless communication technology and the remote control and monitoring center, with the ability to signal the events in real time and automatically forward requests for correction of the problem to the respective responsible, for example. The following are indicated: (30) remote gas leak monitoring system; (1; 20) antenna; (6) wireless communication device (7) gas leak detection sensor device; (10) energy distribution and transport pipes in urban and / or rural areas; (31) centralized control and monitoring system; (35) antenna for transmitting and receiving signals; (32) distribution router; (33) control and monitoring center; (34) decision-making and action unit; (36) signals sent and received from the installed sensor network.

Detailed Description of the Invention

Throughout this report, the expression "pipeline, power distribution network, ducts or objects buried or hidden" means ducts, piping, distribution network or energy transport or objects buried or hidden in public sidewalks, roads, streets or any other surfaces with or without finishing, where it is understood that the buried object also includes all kinds of conditions in which it is not originally possible to visualize said object, whether it is buried under the ground, hidden by the ground or by any apparatus, encapsulated, enveloped , hidden within walls, walls, beams, blocks, wells, galleries, submerged or immersed in any means of support or packaging, not restricting the use of the system to the condition in which the object to be identified is apparent or visible.

In addition, the present gas leakage sensing device can be used in areas and / or devices (externally or internally) from which gas leakage can occur. For the purposes of understanding the present invention, the term "appliance" referring to appliances from which gas leakage may occur should be understood as mobile or immobile appliances, such as: machines, electrical appliances, transportation devices, for example, airplanes, boats or automobiles in the broadest sense and others.

The following detailed description of the invention refers to the attached Figures, but does not limit the invention to these strictly cited embodiments. The inventive concept of the invention is defined by the appended claims.

The devices, systems and processes of this invention are based on the making and use of a set of devices with wireless technology for communication between components of the gas leak sensor network in underground distribution and transport pipes, both in urban environments as rural.

Thus, according to a first aspect of the invention, the gas leakage sensing device, preferably airtight or robust for even harsh environmental conditions, is integrated with at least one communication device with wireless technology including an antenna, preferably optimized for each application. and specific installation environments. Such a device is included in the system of the present invention for its ability to form a network and transmit relevant information to at least one coordinating device or network router capable of interconnecting remote sensors and the control and monitoring center, and at least one remote control center. Such central is preferably responsible for the concentration and analysis of the signals sent and received from the installed sensor network and optionally with the capacity to make decisions and request the necessary measures to the maintenance teams of the company responsible for the repair of the leaks.

The mechanical protection (body of the device) and the disposition of the gas leak sensor device in the proposed monitoring system can be done through the use of components that support applications in one or several environmental conditions, for example, outdoors, salt air, buried or similar or through different forms of integration and simpler assembly in the signaling system with specific dimensions and materials for each desired application.

The characteristics of the device body are described below.

Useful materials for making the said gas leak monitoring device or gas leak sensor device include various metallic, polymeric, rubber, dielectric materials and / or their combinations in the manufacturing process, the production of the final wrappers and encapsulations not being are restricted to the use of only one material or combinations of these different materials, solutions or alloys in the production process, and are also subsequently capable of using glues, adhesives, fixers, varnish, zarcon, paint, protectors, waterproofing and other products that have the intention to protect, increase durability, signal or identify the same.

Useful materials are: plastic, including polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, resins, polycarbonate, nylon, silk, fabrics, rubbers, blankets, fibers and the like that serve the same purpose with different densities, compositions and industrial classifications available on the market.

The dimensions of the devices directly buried in the ground meet the specifications required for each application or customer. In a preferred embodiment, they have a minimum width of 1 cm and a maximum of 50 cm, with the possibility, if necessary, to vary these dimensions along their length in the manufacturing process. The total length of the sensor device depends on the distance from the pipeline to the surface and can assume values between 1 mm up to 6 m, depending on the distance at which it is desired to protect the connection cable or the integrated components, both during installation or handling, and can also vary voluntarily along its length.

The gas leak sensor device can be formed by one material only or using the combination of different materials previously mentioned, through the processes of hot casting, cold casting, can be injected, cut, laminated, stamped, pressed, woven, rolled, sewn, glued, welded, or other methods of making encapsulation or hermetic wrapping, forming supports or covers in geometric or free forms, uniform or non-uniform, periodic or not, depending on the desired rigidity, visualization, finish and durability.

The gas leak sensor device can be made with the materials in the desired color or can be colored later, by painting, dyeing, galvanizing, oxidizing, anodizing, nickel plating, chrome plating and other coloring processes. The pigments used may contain stabilizers, anti-UV and anti-oxidant additives, waterproofing agents and sunscreen, in addition to being able to present written or designed information to visualize the characteristics of the responsible company or the buried or hidden piping. All colors of the visible spectrum and black, matte finish, glossy, fluorescent, phosphorescent or sensitive to ultraviolet radiation can be used in manufacturing, although most applications recommend the use of globally standardized warning colors, such as red , orange and yellow, as they provide a better visualization and identification during any invasive and / or destructive work such as excavations or accidents.

Leak sensors, antennas, cables, connectors and wireless communication devices are fixed or mounted inside the support housing or metallic or dielectric encapsulation during the manufacturing process or during the installation or pre-installation process of this sensor in the your final application. The assembly of internal and external components in the gas leak sensor device can be done by fusing them in the device still in manufacture, directly glued to the casings, riveted, screwed, matted, traced, painted, tied, rolled, stitched, welded or secured with the aid of other fixation techniques in the mechanical protection device, both at the time of making the system and when installing or pre-installing in the field.

The installation of sensors for the formation of the sensor network can be done at intervals that depend on the type and location of application, where they can vary from 50 cm of spacing for applications, for example, in urbanized areas of high density of buried pipes up to 5 km for specific applications in extremely unpopulated or difficult to access regions.

The frequency bands useful for the wireless communication devices used are all the frequency bands defined in national and international standards that regulate these devices and their use, as well as their future updates and new regulations. These devices can use broadband, digital or analog transmission technologies.

The wireless communication devices used comprise those known in the art. In a non-limiting way, a preferred embodiment of the sensor device of the invention comprises: boards, circuits, chipsets, firmware, antennas, ports, wires, connections, stabilizers, processors, memories, connectors, cards, data stores, others and / or their combinations. Such devices being suitable for the operation of the sensor device and wireless communication technologies: Wi-Fi; 3G; 4G; radio; zigbee; Bluetooth; the IEEE 802.15.4 standard; EDGE; ad hoc; WiMax; Wap; GSM; CDMA; UMTS; LTE; similar and / or combinations thereof. Other embodiments, additionally, may comprise wired communication means. Such wired means of communication are easily recognized by a person skilled in the art.

Wireless communication technology radiates electromagnetic fields and is therefore classified as a radio system. For this reason, the communication system preferably uses the frequencies of industrial, scientific and medical applications, classified worldwide as the ISM (Industrial Scientific Medical) frequency range and complies with the limits established for restricted radiation emission.

The limit of operating distance between the network sensors and the wireless signal distribution router can be determined by several factors, such as the means of transmission and ambient noise, type of transmitter, central frequency, sensor supply mode, characteristics techniques of sensor antennas and distribution routers, among others.

Depending on the realization of the gas leak sensor device for buried or hidden pipes, it is possible to replace one sensor or as many as necessary in case of accidental damage without losing data in the installation of new ones, as long as the control and monitoring system remains updated and in conditions of use; or that this information is stored in a database of the company executing the work or the company that owns the installation; or even stored in data storage media on the sensor device itself.

Alternatively and in a non-limiting way, the gas leak detection device itself can be replaced in case of accidental damage without loss of network data when installing a new device, as long as the wireless communication device is present and intact physically, in conditions of use or that this information is stored in a database of the company executing the work or the company.

Another aspect of the invention is that the device and system that constitute objects of the invention provide the implementation of a system for control, monitoring, localization and verification of the safety conditions of the monitored pipe referring to leaks - in real time and in a centralized way - in the civil construction standards for energy distribution and transportation lines, both in urban and rural environments, without the need for a visit or technical inspection at the event site to identify and make a decision for corrective action.

In addition, the system of the present invention comprises energy supply means. These means of energy supply are selected from the group that includes: energy sources, batteries, stabilizers, UPS, filters, solar energy system, others and / or their combinations. For the purpose of better energy use, the sensor device can be pre-programmed to work by performing detections continuously; or after making one or n detections it goes into dormancy or standby for a predetermined time, repeating the cycle later.

Preferably, the system of the invention is provided with a digitally readable means comprising lines of program code and means for executing such lines of program code, including software systems, kernel, firmware, programs, applications and others.

In a preferred embodiment, the on-screen sensor device includes sensors for environmental conditions such as: humidity, temperature, light, pressure, noise and / or their combinations. Optionally you can understand a GPS system.

The system according to one of the embodiments of the invention optionally includes subsystems of fault alarm, monitoring, localization and verification of the environmental and operating specifications of the sensors and other components of the system.

The invention will be illustrated below by the Figures, which should not be considered as limiting it.

Example 1 - Gas leak sensor device

The gas leak sensor device of the invention comprises: antenna, wireless communication means, gas leak detection sensor, where they are encapsulated in a mechanical protection body. Although the invention is not limited to the use of the specific type of sensor described below, its exemplification facilitates the understanding and reproduction of the invention by those skilled in the art, who will know that this and other devices already available in the art can be used in a similar way in the present invention.

Due to the great social and commercial appeal that this invention presents in relation to public safety, mainly in order to prevent accidents and explosions in urban underground galleries and pipes, we demonstrate the principle of operation of a gas leak sensor specially developed for all types flammable gas, such as Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Natural Gas (NG), Natural Gas (CNG), Methane, Ethane, among others, based on catalytic detection technology.

Combustible gas mixtures do not burn until they reach their ignition temperature. However, in the presence of certain chemical conditions, the gas starts to burn at lower temperatures. This phenomenon is known as catalytic combustion. Most metal oxides and their combinations have this property, for example, platinum and palladium. Therefore, specific sensors containing such elements are used and based on this phenomenon of the catalytic principle, being called catalytic sensors for the detection of flammable gas leakage. These commercial catalytic sensors are known for their low cost, as they are generally composed of small sensor elements. As a basic principle of operation, they have a small electrically heated platinum conductor coil. This coil has a primary ceramic-based coating (aluminum oxide), and on top of this it is also common to have a secondary coating composed of a palladium or rhodium catalyst, distributed on a thorium substrate. When the combustible vapor of the gas suspended in the atmosphere passes through the electrically heated surface of this catalyst component, its accelerated (catalytic) combustion occurs, causing the heat generated in this reaction to increase the temperature of the sensor element. This temperature change alters the internal resistance of the sensor's platinum coil, which can be measured using a traditional electrical current measuring device. The higher the concentration of combustible gas, the greater the heat generated in the catalytic combustion and consequently the lower the resistance of the platinum coil, making it possible to measure in this way the exact amount of flammable gas suspended in the atmosphere by measuring the circulating current in the coil of the sensor.

In Figure 1, which details the gas leak sensor device (50) of the invention with wireless communication technology (6) for an aggressive environment or directly buried in the ground (12), where through the exploded view it is possible to view the internal components of the device and the constructive characteristics that make it hermetic. An antenna (1) with constructive characteristics of omnidirectional irradiation is observed, with protection against the weather and which serves as a sensor cover (50) when installed in the mechanical protection body (4) built in HDPE, and its sealing condition to make the hermetic device (50) is guaranteed by the installation of sealing means, in the present embodiment a rubber, silicone or similar o-ring sealing ring (5) at the junction of the components (1) and (4). The mechanical protection body (4) built in HDPE interconnects the antenna (1) with the wireless communication devices (6) and the gas leak sensor (7), ensuring the physical protection of the coaxial cable (3) and connectors (2) of signal interconnection, with this tube having a variable length according to each application, providing the installation of the sensor (7) close to the pipe (10) and its respective antenna responsible for the connection to the network. sensors installed on the surface (11) of the public sidewalk (13) or sidewalk. The wireless communication device (6) is installed inside the tube (4) for mechanical protection, which is directly connected to the antenna (1) through the cable (3) and connectors (2). At the lower end of the gas leak sensor (50) the hermetic gas detection device (7) is installed, this device being responsible for detecting the gas leak from the monitored pipe (10), where it communicates with the wireless communication device (6) that sends the alarm to the centralized monitoring and control system (31) through the sensor network (30). The gas leak detection device (7) also acts as a lower protective cover for the sensor (50) when installed in the mechanical protection body (4) made of HDPE, and its sealing condition to make the device (50) airtight. it is guaranteed by the installation of two or more sealing rings (5) of the rubber, silicone or similar material o-ring at the junction of the components (7) and (4).

Figure 2 illustrates the gas leak sensor (50) with wireless communication technology installed directly buried in the ground (12) and on a gas distribution pipe (10) being monitored, where the r gas detection (7) close to the pipe (10) and the antenna (1) of it on the surface (11) of the ground (12), with the ability to establish wireless communication to the central monitoring and remote control.

It can be seen in Figure 2 the arrangement of the sensor (50) with the ends close to the gas pipe (10) and the surface (11) of the ground (12), apparent and without obstruction on the public sidewalk (13) or sidewalk , which guarantees the reliability and the establishment of the sensor network (30) through the wireless communication device (6). The HDPE protection tube (4) with variable length keeps the coaxial cable (3) and connectors (2) protected from moisture and other damage during operation, both in dry conditions, in rain or flooding.

Figure 3 shows a variation of encapsulation (22) and application of the gas leak sensor (51) with wireless communication technology for aggressive environments with simplified installation and directly fixed to the wall or the object to be monitored. This gas leak sensor (51) is not developed for applications directly buried in the ground (12), and its installation is simplified through direct fixation in the environment or piping that you want to monitor through its fixation support (21) with screws, rivets, clamps, glues, welding, among other methods. Its constructive characteristic allows for direct installation inside passage boxes, ventilation vents, tubes, galleries, diversions, among others, underground or not, and the connection to the sensor network (30) and the centralized monitoring and control center ( 31) is achieved through the wireless communication device (6) integrated with the leak sensor (7) and the connection with the removable antenna (20).

Example 2 - System for monitoring and / or alarm of gas leaks

In Figure 4, also according to the invention, a more detailed view of the system and method of gas leak monitoring is presented through the block diagram referring to the components of the leak sensor network (30) with wireless communication technology and the central centralized control and monitoring (31), with the ability to signal events in real time and automatically forward requests for correction of the problem (34) to the respective responsible parties. Note that the complete system of this invention for detecting gas leakage in real time in distribution pipes and energy transport is the association of the remote monitoring system (30) for gas leakage installed in the field and the control and centralized monitoring (31) installed at the headquarters of the company responsible for the monitored piping, as well as the method of use is based on the operation of this complete system.

According to the invention, the monitoring of the pipeline (10) is performed by operating the gas leak detection sensor (7) installed near or in contact with this pipeline (10), with the ability to detect any gas leak in the monitored perimeter . This gas leak detection sensor (7) is connected to a wireless communication transceiver device (6), responsible for receiving the alarm signals from the gas leak detection sensor (7) and transforming them into radio frequency signals. (36), which are sent to the antenna (1; 20) of the gas leak sensor device (50; 51). This antenna (1; 20), which is installed in a location, close to the surface (11) or level of the public sidewalk (13) where it has the capacity to establish a reliable data network with the router (32) for the distribution of this sensor ( 50; 51), and is responsible for establishing the connection with the router's antenna (35), which will receive the gas leak alert signal (36). The router (32) establishes a direct connection with the monitoring center (33) of the sensor network, which processes this leak information with its respective coordinates and forwards it in an automated way to a decision-making and action center (34) , which is in charge of choosing the best maintenance team that should go to the leak point to correct the problem.

According to the invention, the remote gas leak monitoring system (30) consists of the integration of the gas leak detection sensor device (7), the wireless communication device (6), the cables (3) and connectors (2) and the antenna (1; 20), forming the gas leak sensor with wireless communication technology (50; 51), which operate remotely in the monitoring of leaks from the distribution and transport pipes (10) of energy in urban and rural areas. The centralized control and monitoring system (31) consists of the association of the router (32) for the distribution and formation of the sensor network, its respective antenna (35) for transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals (36), a control center and monitoring (33) responsible for the concentration and analysis of the signals (36) emitted and received from the installed sensor network and a decision-making and action unit (34) responsible for acting automatically and forwarding the necessary action requests to the maintenance teams responsible for repairing leaks.

Another aspect of the invention is the ability of the sensor network (50; 51) to establish different network configurations and topologies, including making it possible to form adaptive mesh networks (ad-hoc), where nearby sensors (50; 51) operate both as client devices such as routers (32) to facilitate the delivery of leakage alarms to the control and monitoring center (33).

Example 3 - Process for installing and / or maintaining a gas leak monitoring and / or alarm system

Yet another aspect of the invention is a process for installing said device (50; 51) according to specific standards or requests from customers, said method comprising installing sensors (50; 51) close to the pipes (10) to be monitored, monitored the sensors (50; 51) remotely through the monitoring and control center (33), and use this information to provide quick and efficient maintenance through the actions required by the decision-making unit and actions (34).

With the gas leak detection system in the pipeline (10) buried or hidden through the functionality of the device (50; 51), it is understood that it is necessary that at least one sensor (50; 51) remotely interconnected to the control center and monitoring (33) through the use of routing equipment (32) and antennas (1; 20) that form the sensor network.

An additional aspect of the invention is a method for public inventory of events and accidents with leaks from energy distribution pipes buried by different companies, in urbanized areas or not of high or low density, which buried the device (50; 51) together with its pipes (10) to be monitored using the installation method described above.

Another aspect of the invention is a method for mapping and performing maintenance in the event of a gas leak based on situational plants (as built) of the buried or hidden pipe network (10), by reading the information contained in the central monitoring servers and control (33) together with the use of a GPS receiver (Global Positioning System) that provides the latitude and longitude of the point in real time.

As a method of preventing possible theft of sensors (50; 51), the system predicts that the sensors (50; 51) will be interrogated constantly by the monitoring center (33), thus, the lack of communication between a given sensor (50 ; 51) and the monitoring center (33) will be immediately signaled and will request an automatic check of the installation site in an emergency.

Among several technical effects and competitive advantages of the invention, which includes the device, system and process, it is possible to mention: • Speed in the alert of gas leaks in underground energy distribution networks with precision in the information and location of the defect; • Safety of citizens and their material goods, preventing accidents, especially in certain urban applications; • Ecological appeal, as it reduces the chances of accidents with victims, environmental accidents or noise and visual pollution; • Decision making and automated maintenance action in real time, considerably reducing human error and the possibility of accidents or explosions; • The gas leak detection device or part of it can be replaced in case of accidental damage without losing data in the installation of the new one, provided that at least the wireless communication device is in working condition, physically healthy, or that your location information is stored in a database of the company executing the work or owner of the installation; • Large number of accidents with victims and explosions documented in recent times in the main media; • Low cost of installation and maintenance almost nonexistent; • Easy adaptation or adaptation of gas leak sensor devices to the needs of the customer or the installation environment.

Those skilled in the art will immediately appreciate the present invention and will know that alternative ways of implementing the inventive concept exemplified above should be considered within the scope of the invention and the attached claims.

Claims (12)

1. Gas leak sensor device (50), characterized by comprising an antenna (1) with omnidirectional irradiation characteristics and used as a cover for said sensor (50), connectors (2) for signal interconnection, coaxial cable (3) , wireless communication device (6), gas leak sensor (7) connected to the wireless communication device (6) and its antenna (1) directly via coaxial cable (3), mechanical protection body (4 ) in HDPE interconnecting the antenna (1) with the wireless communication devices (6) and the leak sensor (7) and o-ring seals (5) at the junction of the components (1) and (4) . 2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that wireless communication means are selected from the group comprising: wireless communication devices (6) Wi-Fi; 3G; 4G; radio; ZigBee; Bluetooth; the IEEE 802.15.4 standard; EDGE; ad hoc; WiMax; Wap; GSM; CDMA; UMTS; LTE and / or its combinations. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally comprises means of energy supply selected from the group including: energy sources, batteries, stabilizers, UPS, filters, solar energy system and / or their combinations. 4. Device according to claim 1, characterized by the mechanical protection body (4) comprising sealing means (5) selected from: sealing rings, retainers, silicone, glues, adhesives, fasteners, varnish, paint, protectors and / or waterproofing. 5. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the mechanical protection body (4) comprises metallic, polymeric materials, rubbers, dielectrics, polyurethane, polyethylene, polypropylene, resins, polycarbonate, nylon, silk, fabrics, rubbers, blankets, fibers and / or their combinations. 6. Device according to claim 1, characterized by the mechanical protection body (4) which also includes the application of glues, adhesives, fixers, varnish, zarcon, paint, protectors, waterproofing, stabilizers, anti-UV and antioxidant additives, filter solar and / or its combinations for the protection of that body. 7. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the mechanical protection body (4) is hermetically closed and / or sealed. Sensor device (50) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it includes sensors for environmental conditions such as: humidity, temperature, light, pressure, noise and / or their combinations. Device (50) according to one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it comprises a GPS system. Device (50) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it is modular or in one piece. 11. Use of a gas leak sensor (7), as defined in any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it is disposed close to the gas distribution and transport piping (10) in urban and rural areas. 12. Process for the installation and / or maintenance of a gas leak monitoring system (30) in gas distribution and transport pipes (10) characterized by the fact that it comprises the following steps: - connection to at least one connection point a gas distribution and transport pipeline (10) from a gas leak detection sensor device (50) as defined in any one of claims 1 to 11; - integration of said device (50) with a wireless system for collecting and processing information (31) from said device, where said system comprises: a coordinating device or network router (32) to interconnect the sensor (s) (s) (50); and at least one remote control center (33) in communication with said sensor (s) device (s) for the analysis and indication of leakage data.

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