WO2017173463A1 - Sump pump monitoring systems, devices, and methods - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for monitoring the depth of water in a sump pit that comprises a hub in remote communication with a sensor. The sensor comprises a transducer for detecting the relative proximity of the water's surface. The system monitors the movement of the surface and analyzes data in relation to predetermined parameters. The hub communicates with a user device over an encrypted radio frequency network regarding the movement of water in the sump pit. The hub may communicate with multiple sensors that are each assigned a unique node address. The system may communicate notifications and warnings to a user device regarding sump pump functionality, and a user device may display current and historic information stored in a user account. The hub and sensor may be synced to communicate over the encrypted radio frequency network via a series of pairing steps. The system may control the operation of a sump pump.

Description

SUMP PUMP MONITORING

SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/317,148, filed April 1 , 2016, and makes a claim of priority thereto. The entire contents of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/317,148 are hereby incorporated by reference as it fully recited herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Exemplary systems, devices, and methods are directed to the monitoring of sump pumps. More particularly, embodiments relate to systems, devices, and methods for monitoring the level of water in sump pits.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Historically, the industry standard method for measuring sump pit water levels and controlling the on/off switch of sump pumps has been through the use of mechanical floats. Outside of visual inspection, mechanical floats have been the only cost effective solution available for decades. However, a device such as a mechanical float that is wholly or partially submerged in water is subject to a high failure rate. It is generally accepted by industry professionals that roughly 60% of all sump pump failures are directly attributed to the malfunction or failure of the float switch system.

[0004] Pumps, including sump pumps, endure their greatest level of stress when first started. This stress, in addition to material fatigue and common wear and tear, causes increased heat in the pump, which can melt the insulation in the coils that are essential to the function of the pump. If the insulation burns away it can cause an electrical short in the coil, rendering the pump useless. Pump manufacturers rely on hysteresis to mitigate this problem, and attempt to ensure that pumps are not switched on and off in rapid succession. Once the water level rises sufficiently to turn the pump on, the pump stays on even after the water level falls below the point at which the pump initially got turned on. The pump turns off when enough water is pumped to cause the level to drop several inches more, triggering an off switch. A critical aspect of hysteresis is to ensure that the pump runs long enough and idles long enough to dissipate the heat buildup from the initial start.

[0005] Currently, hysteresis is provided by a mechanical arrangement of the sump pump float arm and/or contact switch. Over time, deposits collect on the float arm and exposed parts of the contact switch, causing a need for more buoyancy to eventually overcome the friction and additional mass caused by the buildup. As buildup continues, it begins to hinder the hysteresis that is designed into the float switch mechanism. Over time, the float loses its ability to consistently overcome the buildup. Mechanical failure in the float arm is often a gradual, developing failure, and is typically not a sudden critical failure. The deteriorating hysteresis causes periods of shorter and more frequent duty cycles on the pump when eventually, one of two undesirable outcomes occur. The first is that the buildup becomes too great for the float to overcome and an outright float failure occurs. The second outcome is that the pump burns out due to frequent short duty cycles. This second outcome is often attributed to a pump failure, misidentifying the originating float failure.

[0006] Current solutions notify a homeowner only when the water level in the sump pit exceeds a high water mark, which means that it is often far too late to take any meaningful action to avoid flooding. These solutions fail to offer analytics on operations that can predict a failure, and instead only provide notifications once the pre-determined threshold has been met.

[0007] Current solutions for monitoring home operations typically rely on a preexisting wireless network (Wi-Fi), and in some cases hard-wired Ethernet networks are used. For example, internet routers and modems are installed in one part of the house (such as the living room) and an Ethernet cable has to be run to where the sump pump is located, which can be difficult to do. Wireless internet does not require an Ethernet cable to be run to the pump, but it does require a user to input the SSID and password which can make the monitor setup process difficult for a user, since most sensors do not come with an input device (such as a keyboard) or a device to visualize the interaction (such as a screen display).

[0008] Exemplary system, device, and method embodiments described herein solve these and other problems, and additionally offer a novel approach to the manner in which sump pump operations may be monitored in both residential and commercial settings. Furthermore, exemplary embodiments also provide novel approaches to monitoring other household and/or commercial operations.

SUMMARY

[0009] Accordingly, it is an objective of the exemplary embodiments herein to provide monitoring systems, devices, and methods that do not have mechanical parts or require immersion in water and can be used to track sump pump performance and provide cycle data. Such data can provide a correct diagnosis of a cause for failure, and reduce or eliminate misidentification of cause for failure. It is also an objective of the exemplary embodiments to provide real-time data and alerts to users regarding the level of water in the sump pit, whether the sump pump is running, and more. Real-time data may allow users to be immediately informed of when a pump fails to act properly, such as when the water level surpasses the level at which the pump is normally activated. This is distinct from floats where an additional high water float is installed and triggered several inches higher and sometime later. Identifying the float or pump failure when it happens permits earlier warnings to a homeowner of flooding risk. A few minutes and inches can be the difference between whether a basement remains dry or floods. It is an object of the exemplary embodiments to notify the homeowner and/or professional contractors when a sump pump is acting erratically or otherwise needs inspection or maintenance, thereby avoiding a catastrophic failure. An exemplary system may not only alert the homeowner when water levels are outside of a predetermined threshold, but also alert the homeowner when the water level data suggests that a pump failure will soon occur. Alerts may be communicated via email, text message, or other means to smart phones, mobile devices, tablets, or other computing devices. [0010] It is also an objective of the exemplary embodiments to provide a monitoring system that can be integrated with a sump pump or other device, and used to control the on and off cycling of the pump or other device.

[0011] It is also an objective of the exemplary embodiments to provide a secure monitoring system that can be easily set up by a user, and can allow a user to pair one or more sensors with a single hub, and have encrypted communications between the hub and sensor(s).

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment a monitoring system is comprised of a hub, one or more sensors, a network server, and a user device. The network server may be associated with a cloud computing platform.

[0013] Exemplary embodiments may also be used in a variety of commercial and household settings to monitor sump pump operations as well as other various operations including garage doors, fish tanks, and water softener tanks. In an embodiment where two or more sensors are paired with a single hub, the sensors may provide information and alerts on multiple operations, such as a sump pump and a garage door.

[0014] Other aspects and features of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments along with the accompanying drawing figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] In the following descriptions of the drawings and exemplary embodiments, like reference numerals across the several views refer to identical or equivalent features, and:

[0016] FIGURE 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a monitoring system as a block diagram;

[0017] FIGURE 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a sensor device being used in a sump pit;

[0018] FIGURE 3 is a display of an exemplary embodiment with a chart illustrating consistent duty cycles of a properly functioning sump pump; [0019] FIGURE 4 is a display of an exemplary embodiment with a chart illustrating erratic duty cycles of a malfunctioning sump pump;

[0020] FIGURE 5 is a display of an exemplary embodiment with a chart illustrating erratic duty cycles of a malfunctioning sump pump;

[0021] FIGURE 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a hub device;

[0022] FIGURE 7 is a perspective view of the hub device of FIG. 5, with the top cover removed and internal components shown;

[0023] FIGURE 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a sensor device;

[0024] FIGURE 9 is a perspective view of the sensor embodiment of FIG. 7, with the front cover removed and internal components shown;

[0025] FIGURE 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a hub;

[0026] FIGURE 1 1 is a perspective view of the hub of FIG. 10;

[0027] FIGURE 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a sensor;

[0028] FIGURE 13 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the hub device of

FIGURE 6, shown connected to a cable modem via a wireless router;

[0029] FIGURE 14 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary method for pairing a hub with a sensor;

[0030] FIGURE 15 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary pairing sequence for a hub;

[0031] FIGURE 16 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary pairing sequence for a sensor;

[0032] FIGURE 17 is a chart illustrating an exemplary pairing sequence after a sensor finds the hub;

[0033] FIGURE 18 is a chart illustrating the flow of information during a node address request for an embodiment of a monitoring system;

[0034] FIGURE 19 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a display on a user device;

[0035] FIGURE 20 illustrates a conventional sump pump circuit; [0036] FIGURE 21 illustrates a circuit for an exemplary embodiment of a monitoring system where a sensor directs the operation of the pump;

[0037] FIGURE 22 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a monitoring system where a sensor directs the operation of the pump;

[0038] FIGURE 23 illustrates a circuit for an exemplary embodiment of a monitoring system featuring an induction coil;

[0039] FIGURE 24 is an exemplary screen display provided by an embodiment of a monitoring system featuring a temperature sensor;

[0040] FIGURES 25(a) and 25(b) illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a sensor for a garage door monitoring system;

[0041] FIGURE 26 illustrates an exemplary display generated by a garage door monitoring system;

[0042] FIGURE 27 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a system for monitoring a radon mitigation system (sensor excluded);

[0043] FIGURE 28 illustrates the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 21 , when the mitigation system is properly functioning; and

[0044] FIGURE 29 illustrates the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 21 when the mitigation system is malfunctioning.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0045] As illustrated in FIG. 1 , an exemplary embodiment of a monitoring system includes a hub 10 and one or more sensors 12. The hub 10 acts as the internet gateway for all the sensors 12 that may be connected to it via an encrypted proprietary radio frequency (RF) network. The hub 10 may contain software enabling it to act as a bridge between an Ethernet network and the RF network from the one or more sensors 12. The hub 10 may be connected to an existing Ethernet hub or switch for internet access, which may be a cable modem or similar broadband router. Information may be transmitted from the hub to a user device 11 through a cloud web server 13.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 2, a general residential sump pit 200, comprising a sump tank 202 with a sump pump 204 located therein, is illustrated. In an exemplary embodiment the sensor 12 is placed inside the sump tank 202 with an unobstructed view to the water surface 206. In FIG. 2 the sensor is connected to the central discharge line 208 of the sump pump 204. The sensor 12 may be connected to the central discharge line 208 by a mounting device 15 comprised of two members 17 that sandwich the sensor 12 between them and wrap around the central discharge line 208 to hold the sensor 12 in a fixed position. Elastic bands may be used securing each of the members 17 to the central discharge line 208, and to help sandwich the sensor 12 between the two members 17. In other embodiments the sensor 12 may be attached to the central discharge line 208 in other ways including, but not limited to, a unitary bracket piece or an adhesive. In some embodiments the sensor 12 may be connected to the underside of a sump pit cover 210 in a position that allows it an unobstructed view of the water surface 206 in the sump tank 202.

[0047] The sensor 12 uses ultrasonic transducer technology to monitor changes in the water surface level, and communicates information about the water surface level to the hub 10. FIGS. 3, 4, and 5 illustrate the changes in sump pit water levels in three different examples of sump pump operability scenarios, as displayed on a user device. In Fig. 3, the monitored water level is shown increasing and decreasing in a consistent pattern. This cycle may indicate to a user that the sump pump is operating normally, and is achieving consistent duty cycles. In Fig. 4, the water level pattern is erratic, which may indicate to a user that the sump pump is under stress and in need of maintenance. In Fig. 5, a highly erratic water level pattern is exhibited, which may indicate to a user that the pump is exhibiting an erratic duty cycle and is even failing. By communicating information about the water level, a user can gain critical insight into the operation of a sump pump.

[0048] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, further details on an exemplary embodiment of a hub 10 are shown. The hub 10 includes an outer housing 14, which may be comprised of multiple pieces, and houses the hub's internal components 16. The hub's internal components 16 include a USB power supply 20, battery charger and power management circuitry 22, a microcontroller containing a wireless radio module 24, an Ethernet port 26, an embedded computer 28, a wireless antenna 30, and a battery 32 which may be a lithium-ion polymer ("LiPo") battery. The hub 10 also includes a removable USB power supply cord 18, a power/multi-function switch 34 located outside the housing 14 that connects to the internal components 16, and a status LED 35 located on the outer housing 14. In some embodiments the hub 10 may not have a microcontroller. In such an embodiment the embedded computer may be directly connected to the radio module.

[0049] The computer 28 directs the operations of the hub 10, including the receipt and transmission of radio signals by the microcontroller 24. Through the Ethernet port 26 the computer 28 is able to communicate with a network, including the receipt of software updates.

[0050] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, an exemplary embodiment of a sensor 12 is shown. The sensor 12 contains electronics and software necessary to enable it to wirelessly communicate with the hub 10. The sensor 12 is comprised of a main housing 40 containing internal components 42, and a power cord 44. The internal components 42 of the sensor 12 include a multi-function power switch 46 that protrudes through the housing 40 and may be accessible by a user, a LED status light 48, a battery 50 that may be a LiPo battery, a laser guide 52 and ultrasonic transducer 54 that protrude through the front face 41 of the housing 40, a microcontroller 56 having a wireless radio circuit, an antenna 58, a battery charger and power management circuitry 60, and a USB power supply 62. In some embodiments the sensor 12 is solely battery powered and lacks a power cord 44.

[0051] It will be appreciated that the shape, size, and dimensions of the hub and sensor may be modified as desired. Furthermore, the components may be located in different positions as desirable to aid in operation and or provide an appealing aesthetic to users. Referring to FIGS. 10 and 1 1 , the hub 10 is shown with a different shape than the hub of FIG. 6. Referring to FIG. 12, the sensor 12 is shown with a different shape than the sensor of FIG. 8. In other embodiments the hub and sensor may be manufactured in a variety of shapes.

[0052] The hub 10 and sensor 12 communicate wirelessly. Through their respective wireless radio modules in their microcontrollers they are able to remotely transmit and receive communications to one another. The wireless communication allows the hub 10 and sensor 12 to operate remotely from one another, which gives a user many options on where to locate the hub 10. In an exemplary embodiment, and as shown in Fig. 1 1 , in a residential application the hub 10 may be placed in a living room, and connected by an Ethernet cable 64 to a wireless router 66, which in turn is connected to a cable modem 68. From this location it may communicate with a sensor located on a sump pump in a basement, such as illustrated in FIG. 2. It will be appreciated that depending upon the application, the hub may be located in a variety of locations throughout a home or commercial setting as a user desires.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 2, from the sensor's position in the sump tank 202, the sensor's 12 ultrasonic transducer 54 has a clear line of sight to the surface of the water 206 in the sump tank 202. The laser guide 52 emits a laser beam that may be used to confirm that the transducer 54 has an unobstructed view of the water's surface as well as to indicate the path of the transducer's signal. As the water level rises and falls, the ultrasonic transducer 54 detects the change in distance from the sensor 12 to the water surface 206. The transducer 54 sends a pulse width modulated (digital) signal to the sensor's microcontroller 56. The microcontroller 56 then transmits the value using its radio module to the radio module on the hub 10 using RF communication. The hub's microcontroller 24 decodes the distance and the embedded computer 28 processes it for transmission to the cloud network.

[0054] It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the sensor 12 can be placed in various locations in or near the sump tank, as long as the ultrasonic transducer 54 has an unobstructed view of the water surface so that it can provide accurate readings without interference.

[0055] Displays such as those shown in FIGS. 1 -3 may be provided by a monitoring system with the exemplary sensor 10.

[0056] The ability of the hub and sensor to communicate securely over a RF network reduces the risk of interference or cyber attack on the system. Hard wiring the hub to the router/modem, and linking the sensor to the hub via radio (RF) link allows for a secure yet very user friendly setup procedure.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 14, in an exemplary embodiment the hub and sensor are synced (or "paired") with one another through a series of steps, which allows the hub and sensor to communicate securely over an encrypted RF network. The steps are: 1 ) connect the power supply to the hub; 2) using an Ethernet cable, connect the hub to the router/cable modem (this step can be skipped if the hub is already connected); 3) connect the sensor to a power supply; 4) press and hold the power button on the sensor for about two seconds until the sensor LED status light starts to glow on and off (this starts the discovery process); 5) press and hold the power button on the hub for about two seconds until the hub's LED status light starts to glow on and off (this makes the hub discoverable); 6) if the hub's LED status light stops glowing but the LED status light on the sensor is still glowing, repeat step 4 and wait; 7) once the LED status light on the sensor is solid green, the sensor has "paired" with the hub (made a direct communication connection) and is ready to start monitoring; 8) place the sensor over or near the sump pit such that the sensor has a clear, unobstructed view to the surface of the water and through to the bottom of the sump pit (for best results it is recommended that the sensor have an unobstructed view that is roughly a six-inch diameter circle, the laser may be used for assistance), and 9) access the online portal to configure monitoring thresholds and to configure how to receive notifications from the system

[0058] In an exemplary embodiment there are three main pairing processes that occur when a user performs the above steps. First, the hub is directed by internal software to enter a "discoverable" mode where encryption is temporarily dropped. This discoverable mode allows new sensors to discover the hub wirelessly and eventually pair with the hub. The pairing sequence for the hub is illustrated in FIG. 15. The second main process is the pairing sequence for the sensor. On the sensor, internal software directs the sensor to start methodically checking each "station" to see if the hub is on one of those stations. This sequence is illustrated in FIG. 16. Hubs may be randomly assigned a particular station when they are manufactured, which allows two or more hubs to function when they are in close proximity to each other. In an exemplary embodiment, AES256 encryption is used for communications between the hub and sensor(s). The hub contains the key that is randomly assigned at the time of manufacture, and as part of the pairing process the key is shared with any sensor that is paired with the hub. Of course, it can be understood that various types of encryption may be used to ensure secure communications between the hub and sensor(s).

[0059] The third and last pairing process is that once the sensor discovers a hub, the sensor waits to be assigned a node address by the hub. This is illustrated by FIG. 17. [0060] A node address request is necessary in order to assign each sensor a unique ID within the set of sensors under the purview of a particular hub. This allows a hub to coordinate with multiple sensors. Also, this allows all of the software (on the sensor, on the hub and on the cloud server) to be able to distinctly identify each sensor and be able to distinguish data coming into the cloud server as belonging to a particular sensor.

[0061] In the example illustrated in Fig. 17, a node request is made by a sensor and communicated through the hub to a server on the cloud network and finally to a database associated with the server. Information about a yet-unused node ID is communicated from the database back to the sensor. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, the database may be located on the central server on the Internet (cloud database). However, other embodiments the database may be located elsewhere, such as on the hub itself (for a local database). A hub on the database may be desired for two reasons: 1 ) in the event of a loss of internet connection, the local database can act as a local buffer to hold the sensor data until the internet connection is restored and the data is then sent to the cloud database; and 2) a local database would be utilized in scenarios where the sensor is integrated into the pump to trigger the pump. Using a local database may also allow the triggering mechanism to be resilient to Internet outages.

[0062] Once an address is received the discovery process is complete. The sensor and hub will begin using encrypted communication to continue talking with one another. In embodiments using AES256 encryption, all wireless communications between the hub and sensor(s) will be encrypted with the corresponding key using the AES256 encryption algorithm. Once the pairing process is completed, all routine communication occurs over an encrypted channel. FIG. 18 illustrates the flow of data from the sensors to the databases and back for an exemplary embodiment where the database is not local. As illustrated, sensor data is reported the hub/gateway which reports the sensor data to the cloud network and an associated server. The data is saved on a database associated with the server. Whereas the sensor sends data to the hub using radio (RF) transport and a proprietary communications protocol, the hub may send the data to the cloud web server using industry standard HTTP protocol. [0063] The web server then sends the data to the database server. Each system responds to the caller indicating whether the operation was successful. "200 OK" is a response status that is part of the HTTP protocol that stands for indicating to the caller that the requested operation was successful. "ACK" is part of a proprietary protocol that serves a similar purpose.

[0064] Once setup, information from the sensor is transmitted to the hub and ultimately to a user device in communication with cloud web server. The user device may be, but is not limited to, a smart phone, tablet, smart watch, computer, or any other type of smart device or personal computing device. Through a user device the system may provide the user with information about the current and historic water level in the sump pit, which may be displayed as in FIGS. 3-5. The system may also send alerts to a user when the water level gets too high in the sump pit and crosses a pre-set threshold distance. The threshold distance may be set and changed by the user through their user device. For example, if a user sets a maximum water height of just 1 ft. away from the sensor, when the sensor detects that the water has reached that 1 ft. distance or is even closer (for example, 1 1 in.), the user device will generate an alert, informing the user that the water has breached the threshold. Threshold information may be stored on the user device or on the network. User accounts may be provided to allow users to view real-time and historic information about water levels in the sump pit, as well as allow users to change various settings such as the type of alerts they wish to receive, and the maximum water height. An exemplary embodiment of a user account portal is shown in FIG. 19.

[0065] Alerts generated by the system may be provided to a user via text, e-mail, an audible alarm, or other means. The user may ignore the alert, change the threshold to a new distance, or send the alert and related information to a third party user device, such as a maintenance technician's smart phone via text. The monitoring system may also analyze data obtained by the sensor to see if it fits pre-determined pattern of malfunctioning, and notify the user if a problem with the sump pump is detected. The monitoring system may also send information to a third party, such as a maintenance company, to notify them that an inspection or maintenance is needed. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that there are a number of functions that the monitoring system can serve, many of which involve recording real data, analyzing data, allowing for customization of various settings, and providing data and alerts to various users.

[0066] In an exemplary embodiment, a sensor may be used to directly control a sump pump, and eliminate the use of control floats to determine pump on and off cycles. FIG. 20 illustrates a conventional sump pump circuit, whereas FIG. 21 illustrates a circuit where the sump pump is controlled by a sensor. A system according to the circuit of FIG. 21 is shown in FIG. 22. In this exemplary system, a sensor 70 contains a microcontroller that directly controls a relay switch, which acts as the switch for turning the pump 204 on and off. The relay switch is in a separate enclosure 72 that plugs directly into the power outlet 203, and the pump 204 is plugged into an outlet 205 provided on the separate enclosure 72. This configuration may allow for retrofitting of existing pumps by simply closing the existing contact switch.

[0067] Exemplary embodiments may include additional features. FIG. 23 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of circuitry that includes an induction coil in association with the sump pump and water level sensor. Induction coils may be added to the power supply cable of the sump pump such that the coil wraps clasps around the outer insulation of the power supply cable. In such an embodiment, there is no need for modification to the power supply cable nor does an electrical contact need to be made. The induction coil indicates whether current is detected and energy consumption of the pump. The induction coil may therefore assist with troubleshooting and determining pump energy efficiency. Use of an induction coil may also allow a user to diagnose cases where a pump is experiencing a mechanical failure but the electrical components are working fine. For instance, if loose gravel or a small animal is caught in the pump impeller, causing the pump to not be able to pump water out, one might see electrical current being drawn by the pump (detected by the induction coil), although the water level would not change (detected by the ultrasonic transducer). Furthermore, by using the induction coil around the power supply cable to monitor current draw while also monitoring the water level, a user can detect when an egress pipe is frozen. In the case of a frozen pipe, the pump may run (drawing current that is detected by the induction coil) but the water level does not recede as detected by the water level sensor. The discrepancy in data may allow a user to deduce that the pump is running but the egress is obstructed.

[0068] In some embodiments, the microcontroller of the sensor may include or otherwise be in communication with a temperature sensing circuit that is able to detect an ambient temperature, and through the wireless radio circuit communicate ambient temperature information to the hub. Data regarding ambient temperature may be displayed to a user device such as shown in the exemplary display of FIG. 24. A sensor containing temperature reading capabilities may be used for various purposes, including monitoring vacant properties, greenhouses, storage containers, areas in buildings that are prone to freezing, stove top temperatures, and more.

[0069] In exemplary embodiments of a monitoring system the sensor may also measure one or more characteristics of water for purposes of analyzing water quality. For example, a sensor may be used to detect the presence of chemicals in the sump pit water (such as nitrates), undesirable PH levels, TDS, dissolved oxygen, or other properties of the water that would inform a user about nearby groundwater and soil properties. Such information can be used to direct decisions on lawn care and property management recommendations, such as when and what to plant, PH modification, fertilizer changes, and timing of seed, fertilizer, and other lawn applications.

[0070] In some embodiments, an audio sensor may be used to detect operations of the pump, in addition to enabling analysis of audio patterns for diagnosing problems with the pump. For example, a clogged pump that is difficult to diagnose when monitoring only power consumption or change in water level may be diagnosed through use of audio data. In some embodiments, the sensor may include a vibration sensor. Monitoring vibrations may provide information on water flow, data useful in evaluating pump efficiency, and information on performance and operating conditions.

[0071] The monitoring system may also be used to promote energy efficiency. It has been recognized that in regards to some sump pits, the level of the local water table rarely rises above a level that poses a risk of flooding or a threat to the surrounding structure (such as a house). In these cases, exemplary embodiments of the monitoring system can be used to effectively manage risks and reduce the need for the pump to run until there is a change in conditions (i.e. rainfall). The current standard for installing sump pumps is to follow general heuristics for setting float trigger levels, which is not based on the water levels common for a particular property. Individualized data for a sump pit may reveal the typical float heights are below the water table in many cases, and that typical water levels are far below what would constitute a threat. Standard installations may set the pump to run several times an hour, whereas a customized water level trigger would not run until needed, saving energy. Additionally, adjustments can be made seasonally and in real time to accommodate safe practices, such as lowering thresholds during snowmelts or raising thresholds during a dry season.

[0072] The hub and sensor devices may be updated dynamically in the field. Access to additional external data and the ability to update the system permits better management of the pump than traditional methods. For example, it is generally more cost efficient and healthier for the pump to have a longer duty cycle, i.e. to let the pump run for longer once it is turned on. Using weather data from the internet to anticipate the water coming into the pit, a pump can be configured to optimize on/off cycles. If a larger volume of water is anticipated, accumulating more water in the pit will allow the pump to run fewer, longer cycles rather than more harmful frequent, shorter cycles.

[0073] Exemplary embodiments of monitoring systems, devices, and methods may be used to monitor items other than sump pumps. Exemplary embodiments may be used to monitor most liquids in a variety of containers, including the water levels in lift stations, water tanks, elevator shafts, and aquariums. One embodiment may monitor the water level in a fish tank by mounting the sensor on the top of the fish tank. When the water level falls below a certain level due to evaporation, spills, or other environmental causes, the system may alert a user. This embodiment could be offered as a stand-alone system, or be integrated into already-existing fish tank management systems. Exemplary embodiments can also be used to monitor the presence and location of non-liquids. In one embodiment, a sensor may be mounted on a water softener tank in order to identify the level of salt and send notification to a user when the salt level hits a pre-determined measurement. The user will then be notified that it is time to refill the salt. The system may also be used to automatically order replacement salt. [0074] Exemplary embodiments include monitoring systems for detecting the orientation of a garage door. As shown in FIGS. 25(a) and 25(b), a sensor 80 may be mounted on the ceiling 220 of a garage, directly above where a garage door 230 is located when it is in the "up" position and/or where a car 222 is parked when inside the garage. When the garage door 230 is closed, or otherwise not open enough to obstruct the sensor, the sensor 80 has a straight view of either the car 222 (if is in the garage) or the garage floor. FIG. 25(b) shows how when the garage door 230 has opened all the way, the sensor 80 is blocked from view by the garage door 230. Accordingly, the sensor 80 is able to detect when the garage door 230 is up or down, and/or whether a car is in the garage, by judging the distance to the closest object (garage door, car, or garage floor). FIG. 26 illustrates an exemplary display readout for a garage monitoring system. This readout can be interpreted by a user to show a vehicle in the garage (section "a"), a garage door opening and closing (section "b"), an empty garage (section "c"), and the garage door opening and closing a second time (section "d"), and finally a vehicle in the garage (section "e"). This readout pattern may indicate that a vehicle was used to run an errand. The readout may be viewed on a mobile device, such as a smart phone or tablet, or on a standard computer. In some embodiments, the system may send text messages to a mobile device with alert information.

[0075] The system may also be configured to determine which car is in the garage by identifying vehicle dimensions, analyzing engine noise, or based on a prior pattern of behavior. In some embodiments, the sensor may be provided with means for a range of motion, i.e., a rotating platform or servo controlled arm. In such embodiments, the sensor could not only provide feedback based on a small selection of preset patterns, but could also monitor a larger environment and provide alerts for uncommon or unexpected behaviors or events. For example, it may detect the presence of an animal in the garage.

[0076] In other exemplary embodiments of a monitoring system the sensor may contain components capable of monitoring air pressure. This may be desirable in monitoring the functioning of an already-existing radon mitigation system. FIGS. 27-29 illustrate the use of a monitoring system on a radon detection system that uses a standard monometer 240 (U-tube of red fluid) pressure sensor. In FIG. 27, two photoresistors 84a, 84b and two light sources 86a, 86b are positioned across the manometer 240 such that each photoresistor 84a, 84b is lined up with a light source 86a, 86b, and the sensor (not shown) is aligned across the manometer 240, near the neutral operating pressure line. When the mitigation system has nominal operating pressure, one side of the fluid in the manometer 240 is slightly raised above the other side. The sensor makes periodic readings, and deviation from the baseline indicates a change in operating pressure and possible need for maintenance. Analytics may be used to identify and anticipate a variety of events, including, among other things, operating failure to complete failure. FIG. 28 illustrates how when there is a desirable pressure differential, one photoresistor 84a receives a stronger, and less unobstructed light than the photoresistor 84b located on the side of the manometer 240 with a higher fluid level. FIG. 29 illustrates a malfunctioning radon mitigation system, where the pressure differential has not been properly maintained. In this scenario there is no pressure differential and the levels of fluid in the manometer 240 are equal. Accordingly, the photoresistors 84a, 84b are each receiving obstructed light, and roughly the same amount of light. In this scenario, the system detects the relative difference in differential (or lack thereof), and alerts a homeowner that the radon mitigation system is malfunctioning.

[0077] It will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that embodiments of the radon monitoring systems may also be implemented with a single photoresistor and single light source. In this case, the system may baseline data readings upon install when the sensor is intersecting one section of red fluid.

[0078] While certain exemplary systems, devices, and methods are described in detail above, the scope of the invention is not considered limited by such disclosure, and one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1 . A system for remotely monitoring the level of water in a sump pit comprising:

(a) a sensor unit comprising

(1 ) an ultrasonic transducer for emitting an ultrasonic signal and detecting a return signal reflected from a surface, said transducer producing an output signal;

(2) a first radio module for receiving said output signal and transmitting said output signal over a radio frequency;

(b) a remote hub unit, said hub unit comprising

(1 ) a second radio module for receiving said output signal over said radio frequency;

(2) a microcontroller for decoding said output signal to a measurement of distance;

(3) computing means for transmitting said measurement of distance to a user device on a network.

2. The system of Claim 1 , further comprising:

a microcontroller in communication with said ultrasonic transducer and said radio module, said microprocessor receiving said output signal from said ultrasonic transducer and directing transmission of said output signal to said radio module.

3. The system of Claim 1 , further comprising:

a laser guide for emitting a laser beam, said laser guide positioned on said sensor to project said laser beam along a path proximate to the path of said ultrasonic signal.

4. The system of Claim 1 , further comprising:

means for attaching said sensor unit to a central discharge pipe.

5. The system of Claim 1 , wherein said user device is a smart phone.

6. The system of Claim 1 , wherein said hub and said sensor communicate over an encrypted radio frequency network.

7. The system of Claim 1 , wherein said computing means in said hub pushes alerts to said user device.

8. A system for remotely monitoring the depth of water in a sump pit, comprising: a remote sensor unit operable to measure the distance from said sensor unit to the surface of water in a sump pit, said sensor unit including a radio module to transmit a signal containing distance information over a wireless communication network;

a hub unit configured to receive said signal transmitted by the remote sensor unit and transmit said distance information to a user device.

9. The system of Claim 8, wherein said wireless communication network is a radio frequency network.

10. The system of Claim 8, wherein said hub unit transmits said distance information to said user device over a cloud network.

1 1 . The system of Claim 10, wherein said cloud network comprises a database for receiving and storing said distance information.

12. The system of Claim 8, further comprising:

a server on a network, wherein said server is able to respond to a request from said user device for distance information.

13. The system of Claim 8, further comprising: a server on a network, wherein said server is able to receive instructions from said user device and generate alerts based on said instructions.

14. The system of Claim 1 1 , wherein said remote sensor unit receives a unique node ID.

15. The system of Claim 8, wherein said hub is able to communicate with multiple sensors.

16. A sensor device for monitoring operations of a sump pump in a sump pit, comprising:

(a) an ultrasonic transducer for detecting the distance to the water surface in the sump pit and producing a digital signal;

(b) a radio module for transmitting signals over a radio frequency network;

(c) a microcontroller for receive said digital signal from said ultrasonic transducer and transmitting said digital signal to said radio module, wherein said sensor device is able to wirelessly transmit signals produced by said ultrasonic transducer.

17. The sensor device of Claim 16, further comprising:

a laser guide for positioning said sensor device.

18. The sensor device of Claim 16, further comprising:

means for connecting said sensor device to a sump pump discharge line.

19. The sensor device of Claim 16, further comprising:

a relay switch for controlling power to said sump pump.

20. The sensor device of Claim 19, wherein said relay switch is in a separate enclosure that can be plugged directly into a power outlet.