WO2015188217A1

WO2015188217A1 - Fluid collection and detection system

Info

Publication number: WO2015188217A1
Application number: PCT/AU2015/000339
Authority: WO
Inventors: David Bruce CARNEGIE SMITH
Original assignee: Action Drill & Blast Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2014-06-11
Filing date: 2015-06-04
Publication date: 2015-12-17

Abstract

A device for collecting fluid leaking from a hose through which the fluid flows, the device comprising a body adapted to enclose a first portion of the hose defining a first space for collection of the fluid wherein the body comprises at least one outlet to allow the fluid exiting the first space. This device being used in a system for detecting leaking of a fluid from a hose through which the fluid flows, the system comprising (1) the at least one fluid collecting device connected to the hose; (2) piping for fluidly connecting the fluid collecting device to at least one tank; and (3) means for detecting the presence of fluid in the tank.

Description

Fluid collection and detection System

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to systems and methods for detecting fluid leaks in pipes or hoses and systems and methods for collecting these fluids.

[0002] The invention has been devised particularly, although not necessarily solely, in relation to system and methods for detecting fluid leaks in hydraulic hoses and systems and methods for collecting of the fluids.

BACKGROUND ART

[0003] The following discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only. The discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application.

[0004] Hydraulic hoses carry hydraulic fluids under high pressure. Thus, high stresses are regularly applied to hydraulic hoses. Typically, these stresses may damage the hoses forming leaks in the hoses and, on occasions, producing bursting of the hoses.

[0005] Other factors may also damage hydraulic hoses. For example, others factors that may damage hydraulic hoses are: operating the hoses above their pressure and temperature limits; installing incorrectly the hoses by, for example, flexing the hoses below their recommended bend radius, using inappropriate fittings or installing the fittings incorrectly, among others.

[0006] Leaking and bursting of a hydraulic hose is a security issue because of, for example, the hydraulic fluid spillage generated by the leaking fluid. This spillage may affect the personnel working around the hoses and impact on the surroundings in which the hydraulic hoses are used. Thus, leakage of hydraulic hoses can affect the wellbeing of the wildlife and vegetation living in these surroundings. Underground water reservoirs may also be affected. [0007] Furthermore, bursting of a hydraulic hose typically is a catastrophic event that can negatively impact on the personnel working close to where the bursting has occurred. On occasions, bursting of a hydraulic hose can cause personal injury, fluid burns, fires and explosions, among others.

[0008] Thus, it is essential to control leaking and bursting of the hydraulic hoses. Solutions have been developed for reducing the impact and danger of leaks and bursting of hydraulic hoses.

[0009] Conventional solutions for controlling leaking and bursting of hydraulic hoses consist of slipping sleeves onto hoses and clamping the sleeves at each end of the hoses. In this manner a space is defined between the hose and the sleeve. Thus, any hose burst or leak of fluid is contained in the space defined between the hose and the sleeve.

[0010] Further, these conventional sleeves may also be adapted to allow a controlled leakage of the fluid out of the space defined between the hose and the sleeve. This controlled leakage forms a pool of fluid. This pool of fluid can then be detected in order for corrective action to be taken. However, as mentioned above, any spillage of hydraulic fluid may affect the personnel working around the hoses and impact on the surroundings in which the hoses are used. Thus, these conventional solutions are detrimental to the safety and wellbeing of the personnel and the environment located close to machinery that is being operated by hydraulic fluids.

[001 1] Moreover, these conventional solutions do not offer an indication of the location - along the hose - of the existence of a leak.

[0012] It is against this background that the present invention has been developed. SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0013] According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a device for collecting fluid leaking from a hose through which the fluid flows, the device comprising a body adapted to enclose a first portion of the hose defining a first space for collection of the fluid, wherein the body comprises at least one outlet to allow the fluid exiting the first space. [0014] Preferably, the body is adapted to be attached between two sections of a sleeve surrounding a second portion of the hose to define a second space between an inner face of the sleeve and an outer surface of the hose.

[0015] According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a device for collecting fluid leaking from a hose through which the fluid flows, the device comprising a body adapted to enclose a first portion of the hose defining a first space for collection of the fluid, and at least one sleeve adapted to enclose a second portion of the hose to define a second space between an inner face of the sleeve and an outer surface of the hose, wherein the second space is fluidly connected to the first space.

[0016] Preferably, the body comprises at least one outlet to allow the fluid exiting the first space.

[0017] Preferably, the body comprises a hollow body adapted to receive the hose for enclosure of the first portion of the hose to define the first space between an outer surface of the first portion of the hose and an inner surface of the hollow body, wherein the first space is fluidly connected to the outlet of the body.

[0018] Preferably, the body comprises an inner surface adapted to provide fluid flow between the outer surface of the first portion of the hose and the inner surface of the hollow body to permit fluid flow to the outlet of the body.

[0019] Preferably, the inner surface comprises protrusions arranged in a spaced apart relationship with respect to each other defining fluid flow paths between adjacent protrusions.

[0020] Preferably, the second space is fluidly connected to the first space via the fluid flow paths defined between each adjacent protrusion.

[0021] Preferably, the outlet is fluidly connected to a tank for collection of the fluid.

[0022] Preferably, the tank comprises means for detecting fluid in the tank.

[0023] Preferably, the tank comprises means for determining the amount of fluid contained in the tank.

[0024] Preferably, the means for detecting fluid and/or means for determining the amount of fluid and the machinery operated by the fluid are adapted to communicate with respect each other. This allows terminating fluid flow in the hoses if relative large volumes of fluid are detected in the tank. In this manner, bursting of the damaged hose may be impeded.

[0025] In a particular arrangement, the cylindrical body is adapted to be selectively displaced between an open condition and a closed condition.

[0026] Preferably, the body comprises first and second sections hingedly connected to each other.

[0027] Preferably, the first and second sections are adapted to be secured together for maintaining the body in closed condition.

[0028] In an alternative arrangement, the body comprises first and second sections being adapted to be slideably attached to each other to allow selectively assembling and disassembling the body.

[0029] Preferably, the body of the device comprises a plurality of outlets arranged in a spaced apart arrangement with respect to each other.

[0030] Preferably, the outlets are fluidly attached to the tank.

[0031] In a particular arrangement, there are a plurality of tanks, each outlet is fluidly connected to a tank. This particular arrangement is particularly useful in view that it allows determining which outlets are delivering fluid to a particular tank. This allows establishing the location of the leak from which the fluid is leaking.

[0032] According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a device for collecting fluid leaking from a hose through which the fluid flows, the device comprising a body adapted to enclose a portion of an end of the hose defining a first space for collection of the fluid, wherein the body comprises at least one outlet to allow the fluid exiting the space.

[0033] Preferably, the body comprises an end adapted to be attached to a portion of a sleeve surrounding at least a section of the hose to define a second space between an inner face of the sleeve and an outer surface of the hose.

[0034] Preferably, the second space is fluidly connected to the first space [0035] Preferably, the body comprises a hollow body adapted to receive the end portion of the hose for enclosure of the end portion to define the first space between an outer surface of the end portion of the hose and an inner surface of the hollow body, wherein the first space is fluidly connected to outlet of the body.

[0036] According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a device for collecting fluid leaking from a hose through which the fluid flows, the device comprising a body adapted to enclose an end portion of the hose defining a first space for collection of the fluid, and a sleeve adapted to enclose a second portion of the hose to define a second space between an inner face of the sleeve and an outer surface of the hose, wherein the second space is fluidly connected to the first space.

[0037] Preferably, the body comprising at least one outlet to allow the fluid exiting the first space.

[0038] In an arrangement, the sleeve extends substantially along the entire length of the hose defining a third space between the sleeve and the hose.

[0039] Preferably, the sleeve comprises at least one outlet to allow exiting of the fluid from the third space.

[0040] Preferably, the outlet being fluidly connected to one or more tanks.

[0041] Preferably, the sleeve comprises ends that are adapted to be fastened to the ends of the hose.

[0042] Preferably, the ends of the sleeves are attached to the ends of the hose in such a manner that a seal is defined at each ends of the hose to impede exiting of the fluid from the third space defined between an inner surface of the sleeve and an outer surface of the hose.

[0043] Preferably, the ends of the hose comprise a device for collecting fluid in accordance with the third aspect of the invention.

[0044] Preferably, the device for collecting fluids comprises means for detecting the presence of fluid.

[0045] Preferably, the means for detecting the presence of fluid in the device comprises an optical level sensor.. [0046] Preferably, the optical level sensor is adapted to be operatively connected to the outlet of the device and to a control module to provide an indication that fluid has been detected in the device.

[0047] Preferably, the optical level sensor is connected to the outlet of the device to impede exit often fluid from the device.

[0048] Alternatively, the optical level sensor is connected to the outlet of the device to allow exit of the fluid form the device.

[0049] According to a fifth aspect of the invention there is provided a sleeve adapted to receive a hose to define a space between an inner surface of the sleeve and an outer surface of the hose for collection of fluid leaking from the hose, the sleeve comprising at least one outlet, wherein the space is fluidly connected to the at least one outlet to allow the collected fluid to exit the sleeve.

[0050] Preferably, the sleeve comprises ends that are adapted to be fastened to the ends of the hose.

[0051] Preferably, the ends of the sleeves are attached to the ends of the hose in such a manner that a seal is defined at each ends of the hose to impede exiting of the fluid from the third space defined between an inner surface of the sleeve and an outer surface of the hose.

[0052] Preferably, the ends of the hose comprise a device for collecting fluid in accordance with the third aspect of the invention.

[0053] Preferably, the at least one outlet is fluidly connected to a tank.

[0054] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for detecting leaking of a fluid from a hose through which the fluid flows, the system comprising: at least one of any one of the fluid collecting devices according to the first to the fifth aspects of the invention connected to the hose; piping for fluidly connecting the fluid collecting device to at least one tank; and means for detecting the presence of fluid in the tank. [0055] In a particular arrangement, there are pluralities of fluid collecting devices in accordance with the first to fourth aspects of the invention arranged in a spaced apart relationship with respect to each longitudinally along the hose.

[0056] Preferably, there are a plurality of tanks, wherein each tank fluidly is connected to at least one of the fluid collecting devices. This arrangement is particularly useful because it allows detecting the location of one or more leak(s) from which the fluid collected in a particular tank has leaked.

[0057] Preferably, the system further comprises a drainage tank, wherein the plurality of tanks are fluidly connected to a drainage tank.

[0058] Preferably, the system further comprises means for determining the amount of fluid contained in each of the plurality of tanks.

[0059] Preferably, the means for determining the amount of fluid comprises optical level sensors.

[0060] Preferably, each tank of the plurality of tanks comprises an optical level sensor for detecting the presence of fluid in the tank.

[0061] Preferably, the system further comprises a control module, the control module being operatively connected to (1 ) each of the optical level sensors of each tank, (2) to an alarm to emit a sound when fluid is detected in any of the plurality of tanks and (3) to at least one light emitting devices to emit light when fluid is detected in any of the plurality of tanks.

[0062] Preferably, each light emitting device is operatively connected to a particular tank of the plurality of tanks to emit light when fluid is detected in the particular tank. This permits an operator to determine in which of the tanks of the plurality of tanks have been fluid detected by the optical level sensor.

[0063] Preferably, the means for detecting fluid and/or means for determining the amount of fluid and the machinery operated by the fluid are operatively connected to communicate with each other. This allows terminating fluid flow if relative large volumes of fluid are detected in any of the tanks. In this manner, bursting of the damaged hose may be impeded. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0064] Further features of the present invention are more fully described in the following description of several non-limiting embodiments thereof. This description is included solely for the purposes of exemplifying the present invention. It should not be understood as a restriction on the broad summary, disclosure or description of the invention as set out above. The description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of hydraulic hose incorporating an arrangement of a leak detection device in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 is an enlarged schematic perspective view of the leak detection device shown in figure 1 ;

Figure 3 is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the leak detection device shown in figure 1 ;

Figure 4 is an alternative arrangement of the leak detection device shown in figure 1 ;

Figure 5 is a further alternative arrangement of the leak detection device shown in figure 1 ;

Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of a leak detection device in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention;

Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of the leak detection device shown in figure 6 prior to being attached to a hydraulic hose;

Figure 8 is a schematic view of a leak detection system in accordance with a particular embodiment of the invention;

Figure 9 is a schematic view of the control system of the system shown in figure Figure 10 is a schematic perspective view a leak detection device in accordance with a particular embodiment of the invention (attached to a hose) adapted to receive a fluid detection sensor; and

Figure 1 1 is a schematic perspective view of the hydraulic hose shown in figure 10 incorporating a fluid detection sensor.

It should be noted that the figures are schematic only and the location and disposition of the components of the present embodiments of the invention can vary according to the particular arrangements of each embodiment of the present invention as well as of the particular applications of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0065] Figure 1 shows a hydraulic hose 10 attached to a pipe 12. The pipe 12 may be, for example, a pipe of a tower of a drilling rig - not shown. The hydraulic hose 10 may provide the hydraulic fluid for operation of the drilling rig.

[0066] In the particular arrangement shown in figure 1 , the hose 10 is surrounded by a sleeve 14. The sleeve 14 impedes the fluid (flowing through the pipe 12) to leak into the environment if the hose 10 comprises a leakage allowing fluid to leak out of the hose. In particular, the sleeve 14 allows collection of the fluid that is leaking from the hose 10. This is particular advantageous because it impedes spillage of the leaking fluid into the environment.

[0067] The sleeve 14 also provides protection to the personnel handling the hoses during operation of the drilling rig operated by the hydraulic fluid provided through the hose. This is because the sleeve 14 avoids bursting of the hose 10 due to, for example, the leakage of the hose 10.

[0068] The hydraulic hose 10 shown in figure 1 incorporates a particular arrangement of a leak detection device 16 in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention. The fluid collection device 16 shown in figure 1 surrounds a particular section of the hose 10 allowing the device 16 to collect fluid that has leaked out of the hose 10. In this manner a space (the first space) is defined between the hose 10 and the device 16 for collection of fluid. [0069] Figure 2 shows an enlarged view of the fluid collection device 16 shown in figure 1 . In the particular arrangement shown in figure 2, the fluid collection device 16 joins together two sections 14a and 14b of the sleeve 14 that surrounds the hose 10. In this manner a space (the second space) is defined between the hose 10 and the two sections 14a and 14b of the sleeve 14 for collection of fluid.

[0070] In alternative arrangement, the fluid collection device 16 may surround a first portion of the hose 10 and a sleeve 14 may surround a second portion of the hose. The hose 10 and the sleeve 14 may be joined together such the second space is fluidly connected to the first space for collection of fluid. The fluid collection device may incorporate an outlet for drainage of the fluid to, for example, a tank for collection of the fluid.

[0071] The particular arrangement of the fluid collection device 16 shown in figure 2 comprises a hollow cylindrical body 20 having two opposite ends 22 and 24. The outer surface of ends 22 and 24 are adapted to receive the ends of each section 14a and 14b. In the particular arrangement shown in figure 2, the sections 14a and 14b are fastened to the ends 22 and 24 of the fluid collection device 16 via fastening means. The fastening means may be fastening belts 28 and 30 that surround the sections 14a and 14b of the sleeve 14 and the ends 22 and 24 of the hose 10. The sections 14a and 14b are attached to the body 20 in such a manner so as to provide a seal between the sections 14a and 14b of the sleeve 14 and the ends 22 and 24 of the hose 10. The seal impedes leaking of the fluid through the sections 14a and 14b of the sleeve 14.

[0072] Further, the fluid collection device 16 comprises an outlet 32. The outlet 32 allows for fluid to exit the device 16 for collection thereof at a location distal from the hose 10.

[0073] The fluid exiting the collection device 16 is fluid leaking out of a leakage of the hose 10. The leakage may be located at the section of the hose 10 surrounded by the fluid collection device 16 and/or the fluid may come from a leakage of the hose located outside the device 16; for example, the leakage may be located at an area of the hose 10 surrounded by the sleeve 14.

[0074] The fluid is guided to the distal location via pipe section 34 protruding out of the outlet 32. The pipe section 34 is adapted to receive a collection hose 36. The collection hose 36 may be fluidly connected to a tank (not shown) for collection of the fluid that exits the device 16.

[0075] We refer now to figure 3. Figure 3 is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fluid collection device 16 shown in figure 2.

[0076] As shown in figure 3, the inner surface of each ends 22 and 24 of the fluid collection device 16 include a plurality of protrusions 36a and 36b. The protrusions 36 are arranged in a spaced apart relationship around the inner surface of the ends 22 and 24 of the device 16. The protrusions 36 allow fastening the device 16 at a particular location of the hose 12. In this manner, the device 16 does not slide along the longitudinal axis of the hose 10. Also, rotation of the device 16 around the hose 10 may be impeded.

[0077] Further, protrusions 36 provide a fluid path for fluid (that leaked out of the hose 10) to enter the collection device 16. The fact that the protrusions 36 are arranged in a spaced apart relationship with respect to each other defines spacing 38 between adjacent protrusions 36. The spacing 38 define the fluid path allowing fluid flow into the device 16.

[0078] In the particular arrangement shown in figure 3, each protrusion 36 is configured as a rectangular block parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device 16. Other arrangements of protrusions may be possible.

[0079] We refer now to figures 4 and 5. Figures 4 and 5 show alternative arrangements of the fluid collection device 16 in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention. These particular arrangements are particularly useful because it facilitates mounting and dismounting of the leak detection 16 onto and from the hose 10.

[0080] In particular, figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a second arrangement of the fluid collection device 16. This particular arrangement of fluid collection device 16 comprises a cylindrical body 20 having two sections 40a and 40b. The sections 40a and 40b are hingedly connected to each other. In this manner, the device 16 may be selectively displaced between an open condition and a closed condition. The sections 40a and 40b are adapted to be secured to each other to impede opening of the fluid collection device 16. [0081] Further, figure 5 shows a schematic representation of a third arrangement of the fluid collection device 16. This particular arrangement of fluid collection device 16 comprises a cylindrical body 20 having two sections 40a and 40b. The section 40a and 40b are adapted to be slideably attached to each other for forming of the device 16. As shown in figure 5, the section 40a comprises channels 42 adapted to receive ends 44 of the section 40b. The cylindrical body 20 of the fluid collection device 16 is assembled by sliding the ends 44 of the section 40b into the channels 42. In this manner, the fluid collection device 16 may be selectively displaced between an assembled condition and a disassembled condition.

[0082] It is important to note that figures 4 and 5 are only schematic views of the second and third arrangement of the fluid collection device 16 in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention. Thus, features such as the protrusion 36 have not be been depicted in the figures 4 and 5. However, these particular arrangements may also include the protrusions 36 that were described with reference to the first arrangement of the fluid collection device 16 and shown in figure 3.

[0083] We refer now to figures 6 and 7. Figures 6 and 7 show a schematic representation of a second embodiment of the invention.

[0084] Figure 6 shows a fluid collection device 16 according to a second embodiment of the invention. The fluid collection device 16 according to the second embodiment is similar to the fluid collection device 16 according to the first embodiment and similar reference numerals are used to identify similar parts. In this second embodiment the fluid collection device 16 is configured for attachment to an end of a hose 10 - see figure 7.

[0085] As shown in figure 6, the fluid collection device 16 comprises a body 20 adapted to allow an end of the hose 10 to traverse the body 20. The body 20 comprises two opposite ends 46 and 48. The end 46 allows insertion of an end of the hose 10. The end 48 allows pipe fittings 50 of the hose 10 to exit the device 16.

[0086] The body 20 further comprises a pipe section 34. The pipe section 34 is fluidly connected to an opening 32 of the body 20 . The opening 32 traverses a wall portion of the body 20 to allow fluid to exit the device 16. The fluid that has leaked out of the hose 10 exits the body 20 by flowing through the opening 32 for collection of the fluid. [0087] Referring now to figure 7, figure 7 shows the device 16, depicted in figure 6, prior to being connected to the hose 10.

[0088] The hose 10 shown in figure 7 comprises a sleeve 14 surrounding the hose 10 and the pipe fittings 50. The pipe fitting 50 are attached to an end portion of the hose 10. The pipe fittings 50 allow attachment of the hose 10, for example, either to a fluid source or to an equipment to be driven by the fluid delivered by the hose 10.

[0089] In operation, the device 16 shown in figure 6 is attached to the end of the hose 10 by inserting the fittings 50 into the opening 46 of the device 16 and extending the end of the hose 10 through the device 16 such that the fittings 50 may exit the device 16 through the opening 48. The device 16 is configured such that the end portion of the hose 10 is enclosed within the device 16.

[0090] Further, the ends 22 and 24 of the device 16 are adapted to be fastened to the end portion of the hose 10. In a particular arrangement, the ends 22 and 24 of the device 16 may be attached to the end portion of the house 10 via shrink wrap seals. By fastening the ends 22 and 24 the area of the device is sealed impeding the fluid - that may have leaked from the hose 10 - from exiting the device 16 through its openings 46 and 48. Thus, any fluid that may enter the device 16 will flow through the pipe section 34 for collections thereof.

[0091] We refer now to the collection process of the fluid that has flown into the devices 16 in accordance with any one of the first and second arrangements.

[0092] It was mentioned before that the fluid that enters the device 16 and exits the pipe section 34 is to be collected at, for example, a remote location of the hose 10. In particular, the fluid may be collected in a tank located distal to the hose 10. It is particular useful that that the tank is located at a distal location of the hose because personnel may service the tank without having to approach the hose 10.

[0093] For transferring the fluid from the device 16 to the tank, a hose 36 may be fluidly connected to the pipe section 34 of the fluid collection device 16. As shown in figure 2, an end of the hose 36 is fluidly connected to the pipe section 34. This allows delivery of the fluid that has been leaking from the hose 10 to the tank for collection of the fluid. The tank may incorporate means for detecting fluid as the fluid is delivered to the tank 10. The fact that the fluid entering the tank may be detected is particularly advantageous because it permits alerting personnel that fluid is leaking from the hose. This allows the personnel to, for example, shut down operation of the machinery driven by the fluid and inspect the hose 10 to determine the location of the fluid leak.

[0094] The tank may also incorporate means for measuring the amount of fluid in the tank. This allows, for example, measuring the rate at which the fluid is leaking out of the hose 10.

[0095] Moreover, in an arrangement a plurality of fluid collection devices 16 in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention may be attached to a hose 10. For example, devices 16 may be operatively connected to the hose 10 at locations where leaking of the fluid is more likely to occur. In alternative arrangements, a plurality of devices 16 may be arranged in a spaced apart relationship respect to each other. In these particular arrangements, the devices 16 may be fluidly to a single tank for collection of the fluids that are being discharged from the devices 16. Alternatively, there may be a plurality of tanks; in this particular case, each fluid collection device 16 may be fluidly connected to a different tank.

[0096] In further alternative arrangements, each fluid collection device 16 may incorporate means for detecting the presence of fluid within the cylindrical body 20 - see figures 10 and 1 1 .

[0097] Figures 10 and 1 1 show a particular arrangement of a fluid collection device 16 that includes a means for detecting the presence of fluid within the cylindrical body 20 of the device 16.

[0098] In this particular arrangement, the pipe section 34 of the device is adapted to receive the means for detecting the presence of fluid such as an optical fluid level sensor 52 that is operatively connected to a control a module 58 as previously described. For this, the pipe section 34 comprises an open end 66 having an inner thread 68. Figure 1 1 shows this particular arrangement of device 16.

[0099] In this arrangement the optical fluid level sensor 52 is attached to the open end 66 such that fluid collected by the fluid collection device 16 is maintained in the device 16. In alternative arrangements, the device 16 may be configured such that the fluid collection device 16 is adapted to (1 ) allow fluid to exit the open end 66 of the device 16 and (2) to incorporate the optical fluid level sensor 52 such that the fluid may exit the opened end 66 and by conducted to the tank 50. For example, the optical fluid level sensor 52 may be traversing a side wall of the pipe section 34. [00100] It is particularly advantageous to be able to detect the presence of fluid within one or more fluid collection devices 16 because it allows establishing the location(s) of the leak(s) in the hose 10 from which the fluid is emanating. This is particular true in the arrangements where there are a plurality of fluid collection devices 16 spaced along a hose 10. The detection device(s) 10 closest to the leak will detect presence of the fluid prior to the detection devices 16 located distal to the leaks. This allows inspection of the hose 10 only at locations proximal to the detection device(s) 10 that have detected the presence of fluid. Also, the fact that the collection device 16 comprises means for detecting the presence of fluid allows the personnel to shut down fluid flow through the hose. In this manner, the personnel may approach safely the hose 10. This reduces the risk of personnel being injured due to approaching hoses 10 that are about to burst due to the presence of a leakage in the hose 10.

[00101] The particular devices 16 in accordance with a particular arrangement of the first embodiment of the present invention have been described as a plurality of individual devices 16 that may be attached to the hose 10 in a spaced apart relationship with respect to each other. However, in accordance with a third embodiment of the invention there may be provided a single device 16 that extends along a particular portion of the hose 16 wherein the single device 16 is adapted to collect the fluid (leaking out of the hosel O). The single device 16 may also comprises a plurality of outlets 32 having pipe sections 34 that allow fluid to exit the device 16 for collection thereof. In a particular arrangement, the outlets 32 are arranged in a spaced apart relationship with respect to each to each other along the single device 16.

[00102] Moreover, in a fourth embodiment of the invention, the fluid collection device 16 may be configured as a fluid collection sleeve adapted to surround the hose 10 wherein the sleeve comprises a plurality of outlets 32 that are arranged in a spaced apart relationship with respect to each other. This arrangement is particular useful because it allows, for example, substantially surround the entire hose 10 with the fluid collection sleeve. In this manner, the hose 10 is (1 ) protected by the sleeve in case of a burst of the fluid at one or more particular locations of the hose 10 and (2) the outlet(s) 32 allow the fluid to flow out of the sleeve for collection of the fluid.

[00103] It is evident that the present embodiments of the invention provide an effective system for monitoring of a hose 10 such as a hydraulic hose. As was mentioned before the fluid collection device 16 and the fluid detection sleeve allows collection of the fluid leaking from the hose 10 in one or more tanks.

[00104] It was mentioned before that the tank as well as the fluid collection devices 14 may include means for detecting the presence of fluid in the tank. This is particularly advantageous because these means may alert personnel of the existence of a leak in the hose. This allow the personnel to shut down the hose 10 to avoid bursting of the hose 10 and/or inspection of the hose 10 to determine location of the leak and, if required, repair or replacement of the hose 10. In an arrangement, the detection means and the machinery that is being operated by the hydraulic fluid may be operatively connected to allow communication between them. This allows terminating fluid flow in the hoses 10 in case relative large volumes of fluid are detected in the tank. In this manner, bursting of the damaged hose may be impeded.

[00105] A further advantage of collecting the leaking fluid in a tank is that it avoids spillage of any fluid onto the ground. Typically, spillage of hydraulic fluids and oils can be particularly detrimental to the environment and, in particular, to wildlife and vegetation as well as underground water reservoirs.

[00106] We refer now to figures 8 and 9. Figure 8 shows a particular arrangement system for detecting fluid leaking out of a hose 10. Figure 9 shows a particular arrangement of a control module 58 of the system for detecting fluid shown in figure 8.

[00107] Figure 8 is schematic figure depicting sections 51 of a hose 10 that include the fluid collection devices 16 arranged in a spaced apart relationship with respect to each other. The sections of the hose 10 are shown separated from each other for illustration purposes only.

[00108] Further, in this particular arrangement there are a plurality of header tanks 50 for receiving the fluid that has leaked out of a hose 10 having a plurality of fluid collection devices 16. The plurality of devices 16 may be arranged in a spaced apart relationship with respect to each other. And, each tank 50 may be fluidly connected via hose 36 to a particular fluid collection device 16 for receiving fluid from this particular fluid collection device 16.

[00109] Each tank 50 comprises means for detecting the presence of fluid within the interior of the tank 50. The means for detecting fluid may be, for example, optical level sensors 52. Each tank 50 also comprises an overflow hose 54 fluidly connected to a system tank 56 for receiving any fluid from the tanks 50 that may overflow from each tank 50. Each tank 52 also comprises a drainage 56 allowing drainage of the fluid from the tanks 50.

[001 10] This fluid detection system allows for ease identification of the particular locations along the hose 10 where the fluid is leaking. In particular, this particular arrangement of the detection system allows detection of leak(s) in a hose 10 as well as determination of the particular location of the leak(s) along the hose 10; and, in particular, at which section 51 of the hose 10 is a leak. This is because each particular tank 50 is fluidly connected to a section 51 that incorporates a fluid collection device 16. If there is a leak within the section 51 the leaking fluid will enter the fluid collection device 16 that is located at that particular section and transferred to the particular tank 50.

[001 1 1] The system comprises the control module 58 shown in figure 9. The control module 58 is operatively connected to (1 ) each of the optical level sensors 52 of each tank, (2) to an alarm 60 to emit a sound when fluid is detected in any of the plurality of tanks and (3) to light emitting devices 62 to emit light when fluid is detected in any of the plurality of tanks.

[001 12] Each particular light emitting device 62 is operatively connected (through the control module 58) to a particular tank 50 of the plurality of tanks 50. This permits emission of light by the particular light emitting device 62 when fluid is detected in the particular tank 50. This permits an operator to determine in which of the tanks 50 have been fluid detected by the optical level sensor 52 attached to the particular tank 50

[001 13] The above described system is particularly useful because it allows terminating fluid flow when the alarm 60 emits a sound. After fluid flow is terminated it is safe for an operator to approach the hose 10 to fix the corresponding leak in the hose 10. For this, the operator may inspect the light emitting devices 62 to determine which tank 50 includes fluid that has leaked out of the hose 10. The operator then may safely approach the particular section 51 of the hose 10 that is fluidly connected to the tank 50 that contains the leaked fluid for fixing of the hose 10.

[001 14] Modifications and variations as would be apparent to a skilled addressee are deemed to be within the scope of the present invention. [001 15] Further, it should be appreciated that the scope of the invention is not limited to the scope of the embodiments disclosed.

[001 16] Throughout the specification and claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

Claims

1 . A device for collecting fluid leaking from a hose through which the fluid flows, the device comprising a body adapted to enclose a first portion of the hose defining a first space for collection of the fluid, wherein the body comprises at least one outlet to allow the fluid exiting the first space.

2. A device according to claim 1 wherein the body is adapted to be attached between two sections of a sleeve surrounding a second portion of the hose to define a second space between an inner face of the sleeve and an outer surface of the hose.

3. A device for collecting fluid leaking from a hose through which the fluid flows, the device comprising a body adapted to enclose a first portion of the hose defining a first space for collection of the fluid, and at least one sleeve adapted to enclose a second portion of the hose to define a second space between an inner face of the sleeve and an outer surface of the hose, wherein the second space is fluidly connected to the first space.

4. A device according to claim 3 wherein the body comprises at least one outlet to allow the fluid exiting the first space.

5. A device according to any of the preceding claims wherein the body comprises a hollow body adapted to receive the hose for enclosure of the first portion of the hose to define the first space between an outer surface of the first portion of the hose and an inner surface of the hollow body, wherein the first space is fluidly connected to the outlet of the body.

6. A device according to any of the preceding claims wherein the body comprises an inner surface adapted to provide fluid flow between the outer surface of the first portion of the hose and the inner surface of the hollow body to permit fluid flow to the outlet of the body.

7. A device according to claim 6 wherein the inner surface comprises protrusions arranged in a spaced apart relationship with respect to each other defining fluid flow paths between adjacent protrusions.

8. A device according to any of the preceding claims wherein the second space is fluidly connected to the first space via the fluid flow paths defined between each adjacent protrusion.

9. A device according to any of claims 1 , 2 and 4 to 8 wherein the outlet is fluidly connected to a tank for collection of the fluid.

10. A device according to claim 9 wherein the tank comprises means for detecting fluid in the tank.

1 1 . A device according to claims 9 or 10 wherein the tank comprises means for determining the amount of fluid contained in the tank.

12. A device according to claim 1 1 wherein the means for detecting fluid and/or means for determining the amount of fluid and the machinery operated by the fluid are operatively connected to communicate with respect each other.

13. A device according to any of the preceding claims wherein the body is adapted to be selectively displaced between an open condition and a closed condition.

14. A device according to claim 13 wherein the body comprises first and second sections hingedly connected to each other.

15. A device according to claim 14 wherein the first and second sections are adapted to be secured together for maintaining the body in closed condition.

16. A device according to claim 13 wherein the body comprises first and second sections being adapted to be slideably attached to each other to allow selectively assembling and disassembling the body.

17. A device according to any of the preceding claims wherein the body of the device comprises a plurality of outlets arranged in a spaced apart arrangement with respect to each other.

18. A device according to claim 17 wherein the outlets are fluidly attached to the tank.

19. A device according to any one of claims 9 to 18 wherein there are a plurality of tanks, each outlet is fluidly connected to a tank.

20. A device for collecting fluid leaking from a hose through which the fluid flows, the device comprising a body adapted to enclose a portion of an end of the hose defining a first space for collection of the fluid, wherein the body comprises at least one outlet to allow the fluid exiting the space.

21 . A device according to claim 20 wherein the body comprises an end adapted to be attached to a portion of a sleeve surrounding at least a section of the hose to define a second space between an inner face of the sleeve and an outer surface of the hose.

22. A device according to claim 21 wherein the second space is fluidly connected to the first space

23. A device according to any one of claims 20 to 22 wherein the body comprises a hollow body adapted to receive the end portion of the hose for enclosure of the end portion to define the first space between an outer surface of the end portion of the hose and an inner surface of the hollow body, wherein the first space is fluidly connected to outlet of the body.

24. A device for collecting fluid leaking from a hose through which the fluid flows, the device comprising a body adapted to enclose an end portion of the hose defining a first space for collection of the fluid, and a sleeve adapted to enclose a second portion of the hose to define a second space between an inner face of the sleeve and an outer surface of the hose, wherein the second space is fluidly connected to the first space.

25. A device according to claim 24 wherein the body comprising at least one outlet to allow the fluid exiting the first space.

26. A device according to any one of claims 21 to 25 wherein the sleeve extends substantially along the entire length of the hose defining a third space between the sleeve and the hose.

27. A device according to claim 24 wherein the sleeve comprises at least one outlet to allow exiting of the fluid from the third space.

28. A device according to claim 27 wherein the outlet is fluidly connected to one or more tanks.

29.A device according to any one of claims 21 to 29 wherein the sleeve comprises ends that are adapted to be fastened to the ends of the hose.

30.A device according to claim 29 wherein the ends of the sleeves are attached to the ends of the hose in such a manner that a seal is defined at each ends of the hose to impede exiting of the fluid from the third space defined between an inner surface of the sleeve and an outer surface of the hose.

31 .A device according to claim 30 wherein the ends of the hose comprise a device for collecting fluid as described in claim 20.

32. A device according to any of the preceding claims wherein the device for collecting fluids comprises means for detecting the presence of fluid.

33. A device according to claim 32 wherein the means for detecting the presence of fluid in the device comprises an optical level sensor.

34. A device according to claim 33 wherein the optical level sensor is adapted to be operatively connected to the outlet of the device and to a control module to provide an indication that fluid has been detected in the device.

35. A device according to claims 33 or 34 wherein the optical level sensor is connected to the outlet of the device to impede exit of the fluid from the device.

36. A device according to claims 33 or 34 wherein the optical level sensor is connected to the outlet of the device to allow exit of the fluid form the device.

37. A sleeve adapted to receive a hose to define a space between an inner surface of the sleeve and an outer surface of the hose for collection of fluid leaking from the hose, the sleeve comprising at least one outlet, wherein the space is fluidly connected to the at least one outlet to allow the collected fluid to exit the sleeve.

38. A device according to claim 37 wherein the sleeve comprises ends that are adapted to be fastened to the ends of the hose.

39. A device according to claim 38 wherein the ends of the sleeves are attached to the ends of the hose in such a manner that a seal is defined at each ends of the hose to impede exiting of the fluid from the third space defined between an inner surface of the sleeve and an outer surface of the hose.

40.A device according to claim 39 wherein the ends of the hose comprise a device for collecting fluid as described in claim 20.

41 .A device according to any one of claims 37 to 40 wherein the at least one outlet is fluidly connected to a tank.

42. A system for detecting leaking of a fluid from a hose through which the fluid flows for operating a machinery, the system comprising: at least one of any one of the fluid collecting devices according to claims 1 , 5, 20 and 24 or the sleeve of claim 37 connected to the hose; piping for fluidly connecting the fluid collecting device or the sleeve to at least one tank; and means for detecting the presence of fluid in the tank.

43. A system according to claims 42 wherein there are pluralities of fluid collecting devices in accordance with according to any one of claims 1 , 5, 20 and 24 arranged in a spaced apart relationship with respect to each other along the hose.

44. A system according to claim 43 wherein there are a plurality of tanks, wherein each tank fluidly is connected to at least one of the fluid collecting devices.

45. A system according to any of claims 42 to 44 wherein the system further comprises a drainage tank, wherein the plurality of tanks are fluidly connected to a drainage tank.

46. A system according to claim 45 wherein the system further comprises means for determining the amount of fluid contained in each of the plurality of tanks.

47. A system according to claim 46 wherein the means for determining the amount of fluid comprises optical level sensors.

48. A system according to claim 47 wherein each tank of the plurality of tanks comprises an optical level sensor for detecting the presence of fluid in the tank.

49. A system according to claim 48 wherein the system further comprises a control module, the control module being operatively connected to (1 ) each of the optical level sensors of each tank, (2) to an alarm to emit a sound when fluid is detected in any of the plurality of tanks and (3) to at least one light emitting devices to emit light when fluid is detected in any of the plurality of tanks. .A system according to claim 49 wherein each light emitting device is operatively connected to a particular tank of the plurality of tanks to emit light when fluid is detected in the particular tank. .A system according to any one of claims 42 to 50 wherein the means for detecting fluid and the machinery operated by the fluid are operatively connected to communicate with each other.