NL2033028B1

NL2033028B1 - Smart probe device

Info

Publication number: NL2033028B1
Application number: NL2033028A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Ploeg Mark; Loots Jorien
Original assignee: Pipelife Nederland Bv
Priority date: 2022-09-14
Filing date: 2022-09-14
Publication date: 2024-03-25

Abstract

A smart probe device for a plastic pipe transporting fluid, the smart probe comprising a hollow body having a first chamber and a second chamber at a opposite first and second end of the hollow body, respectively, and a separator extending from an inner surface of the hollow body, the separator comprising a channel connecting the first and second chambers; and at least one sensor attached to the channel; wherein the second chamber comprises engagement means for engagement with the plastic pipe.

Description

Smart probe device

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[001] The invention relates to a smart probe device for a plastic pipe transporting fluid. The invention further relates to a method of installing a smart probe device to a plastic pipe.

BACKGROUND

[002] A utility company provides water and/or gas to clients through a network of piper as part of an overall distribution system. In order to do so, the utility company requires information about the water and/or gas flowing through the pipes. This implies a continuous monitoring of the system, to maintain normal operation, and at the same time, to indicate warning status or alarm conditions. The pipes have theretofore been coupled to a sensor. These sensors commonly require of drilling a hole inthe pipe before coupling the sensor.

SUMMARY

[003] According to a first aspect of the invention, the present disclosure relates to a smart probe device for a plastic pipe transporting fluid, the smart probe comprising a hollow body having a first chamber and a second chamber at a opposite first and second end of the hollow body, respectively, and a separator exiending from an inner surface of the hollow body, the separator comprising a channel connecting the first and second chambers; and at least one sensor attached to the channel; wherein the second chamber comprises engagement means for engagement with the plastic pipe.

As mentioned in the background, typical configurations require of drilling a hole when installing the device. The present configuration provides access to the fluid transported in the pipe so the sensor can measure a property or properties of the fluid while avoiding drilling a hole in the pipe as the device can be, like a tee fitting. Consequently, this specific configuration provides an quick and easy installation in a pre-installed pipe fitting, reducing time and material cost. Furthermore, the present configuration avoids the necessity of using extra pieces like hose clamps when attaching the sensor to the drilled hole, thereby providing a more compact device for installing in a plastic pipe

[004] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second chamber comprises engagement means for rotational engagement with the plastic pipe. Such a rotary engagement of the second chamber with the plastic pipe, allow for avoiding the use of clamps, saddles, and any exira piece during the installation in the plastic pipe.

[005] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second chamber has an internal diameter which is substantially equal to an external diameter of the first end of the hollow body. Such equality between the internal diameter of the second chamber and the external diameter of the first end, allows that any piece pre-attached to the pre-installed pipe fitting, and which is removed before installing the device, can be attached to the first end of the hollow body.

[006] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the smart probe further comprising a cap connectable by rotation with the second end of the hollow body. Such a cap provides protection to the sensor placed inside the device against external pollutant, water and dust which may damage the sensor and alter measurements of the sensor

[007] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the smart probe device further comprising a seal between the first end of the hollow body and the cap. The seal provides a tight connection between the hollow body and the cap as well as offers assurance for a leak-free connection.

[008] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one sensor comprises at least one of a pressure sensor and a flow sensor. Optionally, the at least one sensor further comprises a temperature sensor.

[009] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the smart probe device further comprising a straw extending from the at least one sensor towards the second chamber. The device can be installed in a pre-installed pipe fitting of the plastic pipe, like a tee fitting, and some pipe fittings include a non-return valve (or safe valve) which consists of a flexible material body having an annular opening which extends in a circumferential direction over the flexible material body to form a pivot, and this elastic pivot bears sealingly against the flexible material body in the event of overpressure. The present straw provides the sensor with access to the fluid being transported in the pipe by pushing open the non-return valve with the straw. For example a gauge pressure sensor requires that a gauge tube extends to the fluid, as fluid pressure is directly related to the resistance of the gauge tube to the flowing fluid. Consequently, by pushing the non-return valve with the straw, the gauge tube can go through the straw and reach pipe so, the sensor can obtain measurement information.

[010] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first chamber is filled with resin.

Fluid may escape through the sensor. Such resin allows for prevent or reduce the migration of potentially harmful chemicals, or contaminants, into the surrounding environment. Optionally, the resin is epoxy.

[011] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the hollow body is made of a plastic material. Such plastic material can have good electrical and thermal insulation, allowing isolation electrically and thermally of any component placed inside the hollow body. Furthermore, plastic material are relatively inexpensive and typically easy to manufacture, thus providing cost savings.

Optionally, the plastic material is polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), and the like, or any combination thereof.

[012] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the smart probe device further comprising an opening at the first end of the hollow body. The opening allows connecting the sensor with a control unit by cable. Thus, sensor measurements can be transmitted to the control unit. By placing the opening at the first end, and not at the cap closing the first end, the cable can be easily wrapped around the pipe before connecting to the control unit installed on the surface. As a result, the device will be protected against pulls, e.g. in case the cable is captured while digging by an excavator, due to the wrapped cable suffering such a pull,

[013] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the smart probe device further comprising a control unit electrically connected to the at least one sensor. Since the device is usually underground, it is difficult to transmit wirelessly signals to a central management unit which receives measurement information from sensor. Consequently, by electrically connecting the sensor to the control unit, the control unit can transmit or retransmit signal which includes measurement information in a wireless fashion toe the central management unit, thereby reducing the amount of cable use for signal transmission.

[014] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the hollow body is made by at least one of inject moulding and 3D printing.

[015] According to a second aspect of the invention, the present disclosure relates to method of installing a smart probe device to a plastic pipe, comprising the following steps of placing the at least one sensor in the channel of the hollow body; introducing resin in the first chamber; and engaging the second chamber of the smart probe device towards a pre-installed pipe fitting of the plastic pipe.

This installation method prevent drilling a hole in the pipe as the device can be easily installed in a pre-installed pipe fitting, thereby this installation method is simple to implement and quick to install.

As a result, efficiency of the installation process is increased.

[016] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method further comprising the step of installing a cap on the first end of the hollow body.

[017] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method further comprising the step of connecting the at least one sensor with the control unit by passing a cable through the opening of the hollow body.

[018] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method further comprising the step of fitting the straw into the channel of the hollow body such that the straw extends from the at least one sensor towards the second chamber while displacing a non-return valve fitted on the pre- installed pipe fitting.

[019] In a second aspect, the present disclosure relates to a system comprising a plurality of smart probe devices, a plurality of control units, each connected to each of the smart probe devices, and a central management unit configured to wireless receive sensor measurements from the at least one of the plurality of smart probe devices via respective control unit. Such a system allows for continuous reception of sensor measurements, thereby providing a convenient system for real-time detection of signals in fluid pipelines.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[020] The invention will be described further with respect to embodiments shown in the drawings.

FIG. 1A shows a schematic view of a smart probe device,

FIG. 1B shows a schematic view of a channel of a smart probe device,

FIG. 2 shows a schematic view of a smart probe device installed to a plastic pipe,

FIG. 3 shows a schematic representation of a system comprising a plurality of smart probe devices, and

FIG. 4A-4E illustrate a representation of a method of installing the smart probe device.

DESCRIPTION

[021] The following is a description of certain embodiments of the invention, given by way of example only and with reference to the figures. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting.

[022] In the context of the present application, “fluid” means any liquid, gas, or other material capable of flowing when an external force or shear stress is applied.

[023] FIG.1A shows a schematic view of a smart probe device 1, FIG. 1B shows a schematic view of a channel of a smart probe device, FIG. 2 shows a schematic view of the smart probe device 1 installed to a plastic pipe 17, and FIG. 3 shows a schematic representation of a system 21 comprising a plurality of smart probe devices 1.

[024] The device 1 comprises a hollow body 2, a separator 7 and at least one sensor 9. The hollow body 2 comprises a first chamber 3 at a first end 5 of the hollow body 2, and a second chamber 4 at a second end 6 of the hollow body, the second end 6 being opposite to the first end 5. The separator 7 extends from an inner surface of the hollow body 2. Optionally, the separator 7 may perpendicularly extend from the inner surface of the hollow body. The separator 7 comprises a channel 8 which connects the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4.

[025] The hollow body 2 is made of a plastic material. Plastic is relatively inexpensive compared to metal and metal alloys materials. The hollow body 2 can further comprise a combination of plastics. Optionally, the hollow body is further made of metal or metal alloy, or any combination of bots. The plastic material is preferable polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PCV is a non-corrosive and non- 5 toxic plastic. Optionally, the plastic material can be polyethylene (PE).

[026] The hollow body is made by at least one of inject moulding, 3D printing, machining, casting, or other manufacturing processes.

[027] The channel 8 comprises a first region and a second region. The first region is adjacent to the first chamber 3 and the second region is adjacent to the second chamber 4. The second region is wider than the first region. That is, the boundary between the first region and the second region is a step-like boundary. Alternatively, the channel can be a tapered channel where the width of the channel reduces from the second region to the first region.

[028] The sensor 9 is attached to the channel at the first region of the channel. The sensor 9 can be attached to the channel by using an adhesive, or by width fitting into the first region such that the sensor width is substantially equal to the first region width. The sensor 9 comprises a pressure sensor or a flow sensor. Optionally, the sensor 9 may further comprise a temperature sensor.

[029] Pressure sensors are generally used to measure absolute pressure as well as gauge pressure and differential pressure with little effort and in a short time. Absolute pressure refers to a measurement made relative to a vacuum condition, gauge pressure refers to a measurement of pressure made relative to the ambient pressure, and differential pressure refers to a measurement of the pressure difference between two points, therefore measuring by how much the two differ from each other, not their magnitude relative to ambient pressure or to another reference pressure.

Examples of pressure sensors are potentiometric pressure sensors, inductive pressure sensors, capacitive pressure sensors, piezoelectric pressure sensors, strain gauge pressure Sensors, variable reluctance pressure sensors, and the like. Flow sensors are generally designed to measure the flow rate of a or liquid through a pipe. Flow rate refers to the volume of fluid which passes per unit time through a pipe. Examples of flow sensors are positive displacement flow sensors, mass flow sensors, velocity flow sensors, and the like. Temperature sensors can be used in combination with any of a pressure sensor and flow sensor. For example, when fluid leaking, fluid moves through the pipe differently, causing a change in the pipe temperature. As result, the temperature sensor will register these changes in temperature and send an alert to the relevant parties so that they know to consult other data (such as pressure and/or flow information) to identify and stop the leakage.

[030] The second chamber 4 comprises engagement means 10 for engagement with the plastic pipe. Preferable, the engagement means 10 are for rotational engagement with the plastic pipe. In this case the engagement means may be in the form of a female screw thread, so by rotating the device 1, the female screw thread engages with a male screw thread present on the pipe.

[031] The device further comprises a cap 11 connectable by rotation with the first end 5 of the hollow body 2. As shown in FIG. 2, the first end 5 is closed off by the cap 15. As commonly plastic pipes are buried in the subground, the cap avoids that external substance like dust, soil, water and the like, access the first chamber. By avoiding this access, the sensor is also protected against these external substances.

[032] Optionally, the second chamber 4 has an internal diameter (d2) which is substantially equal to an external diameter (d1} of the second end 6 of the hollow body 2. This allows for a cap previously installed for closing the pre-installed pipe fitting to be re-used for closing the first end.

[033] A seal 12 is placed between the first end 5 of the hollow body 2 and the cap 11. The seal 12 can be a rubber seal or an adhesive seal. Optionally, the rubber seal can be one of nitrile rubber (NBR), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, butyl rubber, fluorine rubber, and the like, or any combination thereof.

[034] A straw 13 extends from the at least one sensor 9 towards the second chamber 6. The straw 16 comprises straw tube extending from the sensor 9 toward the second chamber. The straw tube can exceed the second chamber 6. The straw 16 also comprises a straw head at one end of the straw tube. The straw head has a width substantially equal to the second region width of the channel 8. As consequence, the straw 16 is attached to the channel 8. Optionally, a straw fitting plate placed against the extension 7 from the second chamber 6 may maintain the position of the straw permanent. That is, once the straw 16 is placed in the channel 8, the straw fitting plate avoids the straw 13 to be removed, and/or fall off from the device 1. Optionally, the straw filling plate can be an extension from the second region of the channel such that once the straw 16 is placed in the channel 8, for example by clicking, the straw fitting plate avoids the straw 13 to be removed, and/or fall off from the device 1.

[035] The hollow body 2 comprises an opening 15 at the first end 5. Optionally, the hollow body may comprise a plurality of openings at the first end 5. The opening connects the first chamber with the outside and allows a cable 19 extending from the sensor 9 to connect with a control unit 16. The opening may be disposed at the first end such that when the cap 11 is attached to the first end, the opening 15 is not cover by the cap 11.

[036] Optionally, the first chamber 3 is filled with resin 14. Due to the low permeability of resins, resins are used as a permeation barrier against gases and/or liquids. Examples of resins are epoxy, silicone, and the like. Preferably, the resin can be any resin capable of sealing the first chamber by hardening, like epoxy. The first chamber is partially or completely filled with resin. For example, the fist chamber 3 is enough filled with resin to a level such that the opening 15 is cover as well. By reaching such a level, resin also prevent that any external substance access the first chamber through the opening.

[037] A control unit 16 is electrically connected to the sensor 9. Commonly, the device 1 is buried in the subground. Such a subground makes difficult that sensor measurements were received wirelessly by any receptor placed on the surface. Therefore, by electrically connecting the sensor 9 with the control unit 16, sensor measurements can be received by the control unit 16 placed on the surface. As consequence, the control unit 16 is able to wirelessly transmit these sensor measurements to a central management unit 22.

[038] FIG. 4A-4E illustrate a representation of a method of installing the smart probe device 1 to the plastic pipe 17. FIG. 4A shows a pre-installed pipe fitting 18 including a non-return valve 20.

Although the non-return valve 20 has been described as consisting of a flexible material body having an annular opening which extends in a circumferential direction over the flexible material body to form a pivot, and this elastic pivot bears sealingly against the flexible material body in the event of overpressure, differently shaped bodies, for example having a spherical shape, can also be used.

The cap 11 is pre-installed on the pre-installed pipe fitting 18, as shown in FIG. 4A. The cap 11 is disconnected by rotation from the pre-installed pipe fitting 18 as shown in FIG. 4B

[039] Before installing the smart probe device 1 to the plastic pipe 17, the sensor 9 is placed in the channel 8, the straw 13 is fitted into the channel 8, and resin 14 is introduced in the first chamber 3.

Passing the cable 19, connected to the sensor 9, through the opening 15 of the hollow body 2 may be preferable done before introducing the resin 14. After placing the sensor 9 in the channel 8, fitting the straw 13 into the channel 8, and introducing the resin 14 in the first chamber 3, the second chamber 4 is engaged by rotation to the pre-installed pipe fitting 18 of the plastic pipe 17 such that the straw 13 extending from the sensor 9 towards the second chamber 4 displaces the non-return valve 20 fitted on the pre-installed pipe fitting 18, as shown in FIG. 4C and 4D. Although not shown, the cable 19, passing through the opening 15, is connected with the control unit, like the control unit 16 of FIG. 2 and 3. Preferable, the cable is connected to the control unit after engaging the second chamber by rotation to the pre-installed pipe fitting of the plastic pipe.

[040] After installing the smart probe device 1 to the plastic pipe 17, the cap 11 is installed on the first end of the hollow body, as shown in FIG. 4E.

[041] In the context of the present application, “control unit” means any electronic device capable of receiving and transmitting signals. A control unit may have more than one sensor electrically connected to itself.

[042] While the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

[043] List of reference numerals: 1 smart probe device 2 hollow body 3 first chamber 4 second chamber 5 first end of hollow body 6 second end of hollow body 7 separator 8 channel 9 sensor 10 engagement means for pipe 11 cap 12 seal 13 straw 14 resin 15 opening 16 control unit 17 plastic pipe 18 pre-installed pipe fitting 19 cable 20 non-return valve 21 system 22 central management unit

Claims

Conclusions

1. Smart probe device (1) for a plastic tube (17) transporting fluid, the smart probe comprising: — a hollow body (2} with a first chamber (3) and a second chamber {4) at a respectively opposite first end (5) and second end (6) of the hollow body, and a separator (7) extending from an inner surface of the hollow body, the separator comprising a channel (8) connecting the first and second chambers ; and — at least one sensor (9) attached to the duct; - wherein the second chamber comprises engaging means (10) for engaging the plastic tube.

2. Smart probe device according to claim 1, wherein the engaging means are intended for rotational engagement with the plastic tube.

Smart probe device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second chamber has an internal diameter (d2) that is substantially equal to an external diameter (d1) of the second end of the hollow body.

The smart probe device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the smart probe device further comprises a cap (11) that can be connected by rotation to the first end of the hollow body.

The smart probe device of claim 4, further comprising a seal (12) between the first end of the hollow body and the cap.

6. Smart probe device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one sensor comprises at least one of a pressure sensor and a flow sensor.

The smart probe device of claim 8, wherein the at least one sensor further comprises a temperature sensor.

A smart probe device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: - a straw (13) extending from the at least one sensor to the second chamber.

A smart probe device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second chamber is filled with resin (14).

10. Smart probe device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hollow body is made of a plastic material.

A smart probe device according to claim 10, wherein the plastic material is polyvinyl chloride, PVC.

A smart probe device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an opening (15) at the first end of the hollow body.

A smart probe device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a control unit (16) electrically connected to the at least one sensor.

A smart probe device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hollow body is made by at least one of injection molding and 3D printing.

A method of installing a smart probe device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims on a plastic pipe (17), comprising the following steps: - placing the at least one sensor in the channel; — introducing resin into the first chamber; and — engaging the second chamber of the smart probe device with a pre-installed pipe fitting of the plastic pipe.

The method of claim 15, wherein the resin is epoxy.

Method according to any one of claims 15-16, further comprising the following step: - installing a cap on the first end of the hollow body.

18. Method according to any of the claims 15-17, which further comprises the following step: - connecting the at least one sensor to the control unit by guiding a cable through the opening of the hollow body.

Method according to any one of claims 15-18, further comprising the following step: - arranging the straw in the channel of the hollow body so that the straw extends from the at least one sensor to the second chamber while a non-return valve that is mounted on the pre-installed pipe fitting.

A system (21) comprising a plurality of smart probe devices (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, a plurality of control units (16), each connected to each of the smart probe devices, and a central management unit (22) configured to wirelessly receive sensor measurements from the at least one of the plurality of smart probe devices via respective control unit.