WO2022238755A1 - System and method of acquisition, transmission and processing of environmental data - Google Patents

System and method of acquisition, transmission and processing of environmental data Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2022238755A1
WO2022238755A1 PCT/IB2021/060153 IB2021060153W WO2022238755A1 WO 2022238755 A1 WO2022238755 A1 WO 2022238755A1 IB 2021060153 W IB2021060153 W IB 2021060153W WO 2022238755 A1 WO2022238755 A1 WO 2022238755A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
data
environmental
transmission
processing block
sample
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2021/060153
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Giuseppe BONAPACE
Marco Flavio Michele VISMARA
Antonio Valentini
Luca DE ANGELIS
Umberto RAPETTO
Mauro NASINI
Antonio Maiolo
Joseph TOAFF
Daniela LUVERO
Alessandra Gatti
Roberto MONTERA
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Lightscience Srl
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
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Publication date
Application filed by Lightscience Srl filed Critical Lightscience Srl
Priority to EP21802438.8A priority Critical patent/EP4352491A1/en
Publication of WO2022238755A1 publication Critical patent/WO2022238755A1/en

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N21/00—Investigating or analysing materials by the use of optical means, i.e. using sub-millimetre waves, infrared, visible or ultraviolet light
    • G01N21/17—Systems in which incident light is modified in accordance with the properties of the material investigated
    • G01N21/25—Colour; Spectral properties, i.e. comparison of effect of material on the light at two or more different wavelengths or wavelength bands
    • G01N21/31—Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry
    • G01N21/35—Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light
    • G01N21/359—Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light using near infrared light
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N21/00—Investigating or analysing materials by the use of optical means, i.e. using sub-millimetre waves, infrared, visible or ultraviolet light
    • G01N21/01—Arrangements or apparatus for facilitating the optical investigation
    • G01N2021/0106—General arrangement of respective parts
    • G01N2021/0118—Apparatus with remote processing
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N2201/00—Features of devices classified in G01N21/00
    • G01N2201/02—Mechanical
    • G01N2201/021—Special mounting in general
    • G01N2201/0212—Liquid borne; swimming apparatus
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N2201/00—Features of devices classified in G01N21/00
    • G01N2201/02—Mechanical
    • G01N2201/021—Special mounting in general
    • G01N2201/0214—Airborne
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N2201/00—Features of devices classified in G01N21/00
    • G01N2201/02—Mechanical
    • G01N2201/021—Special mounting in general
    • G01N2201/0216—Vehicle borne
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N2201/00—Features of devices classified in G01N21/00
    • G01N2201/02—Mechanical
    • G01N2201/022—Casings
    • G01N2201/0221—Portable; cableless; compact; hand-held

Definitions

  • System and method of acquisition, transmission and processing of environmental data The present invention relates to an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system.
  • the present invention also relates to an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing method.
  • the present invention relates to a system and metod of servicing data to a business intelligence.
  • the present invention relates to an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method, for example, but not limited to, for monitoring chemical and / or biological analyses of water, soil or for direct and indirect measurements aimed at determining sample's characteristics and the presence of one or more contaminants.
  • NIRS near infrared spectroscopy
  • the purpose of the present invention is to provide a system and a method for the acquisition, transmission, processing and servicing to a business intelligence of environmental data, such as to be economical, simple and
  • a further object of the present invention is to provide an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method which allows to take a sample and to carry out basic chemical, physical and biological analysis in real time, without the need to transport samples taken from an analysis laboratory.
  • the object of the present invention is to provide a an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method that allows the remote processing of the data obtained by NIRS and their association with data relating to the place and time of sampling.
  • the object of the present invention is to provide an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method which has the function of integrating data and big data analysis and allows to create and update geographic systems in real time, thus providing a geospatial monitoring system.
  • an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system is provided, as defined in claim 1.
  • an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing method is provided, as defined in claim 9.
  • FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system, according to the invention
  • Figure 2 shows a diagram of a portion of the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system, according to another embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 3 shows a diagram of the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system, according to another embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 4 shows a diagram of the the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system, according to another embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 5 - Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing method, according to the invention.
  • FIG. 1 an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system 100 is shown, according to the invention.
  • system 100 comprises at least one first system 100a comprising:
  • At least one local group 120 comprising: at least one support 101 for at least one sample to be analyzed; at least one NIR spectrometer 102, configured to acquire the spectrum of the sample; at least one interfacing device 104.
  • the at least one local group 120 comprises a plurality of sensors 105, suitable for detecting data correlated to environmental data relating to the sampling site or areas.
  • the first system 100a also comprises:
  • a first data processing block 103a' connected to the NIR spectrometer 102 and configured to receive the spectrum obtained from the NIR spectrometer 102 and process the data relating to the acquired spectrum
  • a second data processing block 103a according to an aspect of the invention
  • the processing block 103a is connected to the plurality of sensors 105 and configured to process data collected by said plurality of sensors 105;
  • At least one first data management block 111a configured to store the data acquired by the NIR spectrometer 102, and, according to an aspect of the invention, the plurality of sensors 105, and make them available respectively to the first and second processing blocks 103a', 103a", and also to store the processed data respectively from the first and second processing blocks 103a', 103a"; a first sorting center 110a equipped with local or remote data connection with: the NIR spectrometer 102, and according to an aspect of the invention the the plurality of sensors 105, the first data management block 111a, with the first and second data processing blocks 103a' and 103a".
  • the local group 120 is connected to the first sorting center 110a via a remote data connection.
  • At least one interfacing device 104 is suitable for starting and managing the first system 100a and is configured for receiving in real
  • the NIR spectrometer 102 is a portable spectrometer. According to an aspect of the invention, the NIR spectrometer 102, the sensors 105, and the interfacing device 104 are connected to the first sorting center 110a via internet connection.
  • the plurality of sensors 105 comprises at least one of the sensors included in the group consisting of: a camera, configured for example to detect digital photographic images, images and spectral signals in the IR, visible, and ultra violet window; - an audio sensor, configured to record sounds and detect noises;
  • - a geolocation system configured to detect data relating to geographic coordinates of the local group 120 to be sent to a second sorting center 110b; - a barometer; a radio wave meter, including or not a spectrum analyzer, for the evaluation of electromagnetic pollution;
  • an effector configured to receive a command input and to take a sample
  • the plurality of sensors 105 is integrated in the interfacing device 104.
  • the interface device 104 is a smartphone.
  • the interfacing device 104 comprises: a log-in system for a plurality of users, and / or a management system for the plurality of sensors 105, and / or a management system for the NIR spectrometer 102, and / or a management software for the history of the analysis carried out, and / or a system for sending a draft analysis to an accredited professional / biologist, and / or a connection system with a LIS, LIMS system.
  • the at least one support 101 is configured to allow analyzing a sample by NIR spectroscopy and is comprised in the group consisting of:
  • a closed compartment which can be isolated from the outside in order to protect the sample contained therein; a couvette, of the disposable or in-line type for continuous surveys; - an absorbent paper or similar material.
  • the couvette which forms part of the support 101 is disposable, therefore replaceable with each new sampling.
  • the couvette which forms part of the support 101 is part of an in-line system, so it can be used for continuous monitoring.
  • a raft on a river with the system mounted during navigation, they can or scans be performed every certain time either on the basis of the signals coming from the plurality of sensors 105 or on the basis of the information received from a central system 100b.
  • the system 100 allows to carry out the detection on a liquid drop without layering on bibulous paper.
  • Support 101 is suitable for acquiring one or more environmental samples considered.
  • the support 101 is also suitable for being subjected to NIRS scanning through the use
  • the support 101 allows you to analyze a sample by NIR spectroscopy.
  • the system 100 comprises a central system 100b, comprising:
  • a second sorting center 110b connected to at least a first sorting center 110a and at least one network or external data source;
  • At least one central data processing block 103b which implements artificial intelligence methods, connected to the first and second data processing blocks 103a', 103a" and configured to process the data collected and processed by the at least one first system 100a together with external data;
  • a second data management block 111b suitable for storing the data processed by the central data processing block 103b.
  • the central system 100b is connected to a plurality of first systems 100a, each of which detects data by means of its own plurality of sensors 105 and by means of its own NIR spectrometer 102, said data being collected and processed a
  • the system 100 comprises at least one "unmanned vehicle” (UV), in which a local group 120 is integrated.
  • UV unmanned vehicle
  • UV is a land vehicle, drone or boat.
  • the UV is configured to be located in the predefined sampling point, or in successive times in a series of sampling points, to take at least one sample, continuously or discretely, and to analyze it by means of the NIR spectrometer 102 and the plurality of sensors 105.
  • the system 100 comprises a plurality of UVs, or fleets, each UV being equipped with the local group 120 and connecting with the central system 100b.
  • the system 100 comprises a plurality of local groups 120', 120", ..., 120n each connected to a first system
  • the second sorting center 110b is connected to the internet and to each first system 100a.
  • the second sorting center 110b is configured to perform at least one of the following operations:
  • the function of automatic emission of warning signals is particularly advantageous in the case in which many samplings are carried out, in different sampling points, in order to highlight any anomaly linked to exceeding threshold values automatically associated with the sampling point and the time considered.
  • the system 100 allows, through the emission of warning signals due to anomalies detected by external systems, to carry out targeted sampling, for example in areas which, from satellite detection or from data available
  • the second sorting center 110b is connected to a network and from it automatically detects public data, and / or data present in the local network or on an external network or on the internet, processes them together with the data collected from the plurality of local groups 120 of each first system 100a and provides calculations and forecasts as output.
  • the NIR spectrometer 102 is connected to the interfacing device 104 in such a way as to send, by means of an internet connection, to said first data processing block 103a', according to the analysis needs, the spectrum resulting from the analysis of the sample considered.
  • the NIR spectrometer 102 is connected directly to the first data processing block 103a', or by means of an internet connection in such a way as to send to said first data processing block 103a' the spectrum resulting from the analysis of the sample considered.
  • the first data processing block 103a', and / or the second data processing block 103a" can be local or remote.
  • the first and second data processing blocks 103a' and 103a" are contained in the first sorting center 110a.
  • the NIR spectrometer 102 acquires the sample by making a set N number of scans for each sample. Furthermore, the plurality of sensors 105 detects data associated with the detection such as: geolocation, temperature,...etc.
  • the spectrum data obtained from the scans are automatically sent to the data processing block 103a', 103a", via the first sorting center 110a.
  • the data processing blocks 103a', 103a" are configured to carry out the post processing and analysis phases of the received data, and send them in real time by means of the first sorting center 110a, to the first data management block 111a and / or to the interfacing device 104, since it is possible that there is more than one and of which at least one is located remotely from the sensor itself, it can be found in the analysis laboratory or the environmental monitoring body in question.
  • the data collected in situ by the system 100 using NIRS of a sample are sent to the data processing block, and, optionally, to a predefined professional for reporting the data, finally the result of the analysis is sent to whoever has commissioned the environmental analysis, that is typically a public or private body or an environmental analysis laboratory.
  • the results of the analyzes carried out on the sample in an economical and simple way using NIRS are transmitted in real time to the environmental monitoring body or to a data processing center.
  • the environmental data are optionally verified and checked by a professional to increase the reliability of the NIRS analysis performed.
  • the first processing block 103a' and the second processing block 103a", and the central data processing block 103b each comprise a block for quality control, a block for the pre-analytical preparation of the scans, one or more libraries standardized, a block comprising specific and parameterized machine learning algorithms.
  • a "Surface Air System” can be used for the acquisition of the sample, that is an impact concentrator that conveys the sucked air directly onto the support 101. Note the flow of air passing through the concentrator, the data relating to the chemical / physical parameter considered is obtained and the NIRS is carried out to obtain the spectrum to be sent, together with the data detected by the plurality of sensors 105, to a processing step.
  • an operator takes a small sample of water in the field and places it on the support 101.
  • the sampling can take place automatically by means of an autonomous vehicle.
  • the portable infrared spectrometer 102 acquires the sample and analyzes it.
  • System 100 provides as output, optionally viewable on a screen, a compliance or non- compliance signal of the water analyzed based on the parameters detected in the sample with respect to a data set of predetermined values, which for example may correspond to regulatory limits for chemical or biological components.
  • a data set of predetermined values which for example may correspond to regulatory limits for chemical or biological components.
  • the data collected and processed by at least one first system 100a are sent and processed by artificial intelligence methods by the central system 100b.
  • the first system 100a allows to associate the relative chemical and biological characteristics to each sampling as well as the site in which the sampling took place and its time reference. Further applications of the system and the method according to the invention are the chemical-biological analysis of the land, for example to assess its contamination by
  • the present invention also relates to a method 200 for acquiring, transmitting and processing environmental data.
  • the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing method 200 comprises the steps of:
  • a sample to be analyzed for example by taking a small sample of water, said sample being able for example to be solid, liquid or gaseous;
  • a sorting center configured to carry out the transmission of the spectrum and the other acquired data to at least one processing block, and to store the data and processing on the database, and send the data to an interfacing device 104;
  • step 203 comprises:
  • the method 200 also comprises:
  • the step 202 of depositing the sample on the support 101 can be repeated several times as the user repeats the operation for one or more samples.
  • the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method according to the invention are economical and precise.
  • the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing method according to the invention by means of the analysis and processing steps carried out by the first and second processing blocks 103a', 103a" and by the central data processing block 103b, allows to overcome the low precision of the NIRS technique and being able to make advanced calculations, access reference databases and apply specific mathematical models, based on machine learning and artificial intelligence and appropriately parameterized, to the data obtained.
  • processing block 103b use in the data analysis an algorithm optimized for each chemical-biological parameter considered.
  • the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method according to the invention are versatile, presenting a wide range of applications.
  • the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method according to the invention can be carried out without having to take a large number of samples, send the sample to an analysis laboratory and wait for the elaboration of the relative result.
  • the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method are low or cost.
  • the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method according to the invention do not involve the use of chemical reagents.
  • the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing data system and method are not destructive with respect to the sample used.

Abstract

Environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system (100), comprising: at least one first system (100a) comprising: - at least one local group (120) consisting of: at least one support (101) for at least one sample to be analyzed; at least one NIR spectrometer (102) configured to acquire the spectrum of the at least one sample; at least one interfacing device (104); - at least one first data processing block (103a') connected to the at least one NIR spectrometer (102) and a second data processing block (103a"); - at least one first data management block (111a); - a first sorting center (110a) provided with a local or remote data connection.

Description

DESCRIPTION
"System and method of acquisition, transmission and processing of environmental data" The present invention relates to an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system.
The present invention also relates to an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing method.
Also, the present invention relates to a system and metod of servicing data to a business intelligence.In particular, the present invention relates to an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method, for example, but not limited to, for monitoring chemical and / or biological analyses of water, soil or for direct and indirect measurements aimed at determining sample's characteristics and the presence of one or more contaminants.
As it is well known, environmental analyses, carried out for example on watercourses, soil or air, are typically aimed at monitoring the chemical, physical and biological parameters that determine whether the value monitored falls within a range that is normal and/or allowed by local legislation or whether there are anomalies or specific contaminations.
1 These analysis are useful for monitoring and evaluating the characteristics of the sample and the healthiness, if it is the case, and are fundamental in the discovery of anomalies. Today, said analysis are carried out using sampling campaigns followed by a laboratory analysis phase, according to different chemical analysis techniques, aimed at determining the quantity of different organic and inorganic substances present in the sample considered.
Chemical, physical and biological analysis on environmental samples are currently carried out during on-site sampling campaigns with portable equipment and in analysis laboratories. Staff carry out on-site sampling, usually on a periodic basis. The sample taken, for example of water or soil, the sample is marked with the references of time and place of sampling, subjected to initial analysis in situ and subsequently is stored and sent to a laboratory for further analysis. The laboratory then performs the required analysis and issues a report which must then be transmitted and transported to the reference entity or to whoever commissioned the analysis. The laboratory report and the in situ measurement need to be matched having an overview of a single place of sampling. Also, more sampling data needs to be analyzed and
2 processed to have complete information on a specific area, and elaborate a unique final report.
Currently, the acquisition, transmission and processing of environmental data takes place, therefore, with systems and methods that involve high costs and times, as well as the need for the direct presence of expert personnel both for sampling and for subsequent laboratory analysis and subsequent data processing.
A known chemical analysis technique is near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) which allows the substances present in a sample to be identified. This analysis technique has the advantage of being particularly economical and does not require the use of chemical reagents.
However, the application of NIRS to environmental analysis has the limit of not being able to easily analyze liquid samples. Furthermore, NIRS has poor accuracy of the results obtained. Portable NIR salso have limitation due to non connection.
The purpose of the present invention is to provide a system and a method for the acquisition, transmission, processing and servicing to a business intelligence of environmental data, such as to be economical, simple and
3 precise, and therefore having characteristics such as to overcome the limits that still affect current systems and methods of acquisition, transmission and processing of environmental data with reference to the known art. A further object of the present invention is to provide an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method which allows to take a sample and to carry out basic chemical, physical and biological analysis in real time, without the need to transport samples taken from an analysis laboratory.
Furthermore, the object of the present invention is to provide a an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method that allows the remote processing of the data obtained by NIRS and their association with data relating to the place and time of sampling.
Finally, the object of the present invention is to provide an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method which has the function of integrating data and big data analysis and allows to create and update geographic systems in real time, thus providing a geospatial monitoring system.
4 According to the present invention, an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system is provided, as defined in claim 1.
According to the present invention, an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing method is provided, as defined in claim 9.
For a better understanding of the present invention, a preferred embodiment is now described, purely by way of non limiting example, with reference to the attached drawings, in which:
- Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system, according to the invention;
Figure 2 shows a diagram of a portion of the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system, according to another embodiment of the invention;
Figure 3 shows a diagram of the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system, according to another embodiment of the invention; - Figure 4 shows a diagram of the the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system, according to another embodiment of the invention;
5 - Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing method, according to the invention.
With reference to these figures, and in particular to figure 1, an environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system 100 is shown, according to the invention.
More specifically, the system 100 comprises at least one first system 100a comprising:
- at least one local group 120 comprising: at least one support 101 for at least one sample to be analyzed; at least one NIR spectrometer 102, configured to acquire the spectrum of the sample; at least one interfacing device 104.
According to an aspect of the invention, the at least one local group 120 comprises a plurality of sensors 105, suitable for detecting data correlated to environmental data relating to the sampling site or areas.
The first system 100a also comprises:
- at least a first data processing block 103a' connected to the NIR spectrometer 102 and configured to receive the spectrum obtained from the NIR spectrometer 102 and process the data relating to the acquired spectrum, and a second data processing block 103a", according to an aspect of the invention
6 the processing block 103a is connected to the plurality of sensors 105 and configured to process data collected by said plurality of sensors 105;
- at least one first data management block 111a configured to store the data acquired by the NIR spectrometer 102, and, according to an aspect of the invention, the plurality of sensors 105, and make them available respectively to the first and second processing blocks 103a', 103a", and also to store the processed data respectively from the first and second processing blocks 103a', 103a"; a first sorting center 110a equipped with local or remote data connection with: the NIR spectrometer 102, and according to an aspect of the invention the the plurality of sensors 105, the first data management block 111a, with the first and second data processing blocks 103a' and 103a".
According to an aspect of the invention, the local group 120 is connected to the first sorting center 110a via a remote data connection.
According to an aspect of the invention, at least one interfacing device 104 is suitable for starting and managing the first system 100a and is configured for receiving in real
7 time the data analyzed by the first and second data processing blocks (103a’, 103a").
According to one aspect of the invention, the NIR spectrometer 102 is a portable spectrometer. According to an aspect of the invention, the NIR spectrometer 102, the sensors 105, and the interfacing device 104 are connected to the first sorting center 110a via internet connection.
According to an aspect of the invention, the plurality of sensors 105 comprises at least one of the sensors included in the group consisting of: a camera, configured for example to detect digital photographic images, images and spectral signals in the IR, visible, and ultra violet window; - an audio sensor, configured to record sounds and detect noises;
- a geolocation system, configured to detect data relating to geographic coordinates of the local group 120 to be sent to a second sorting center 110b; - a barometer; a radio wave meter, including or not a spectrum analyzer, for the evaluation of electromagnetic pollution;
8 - a temperature detector;
- an effector, configured to receive a command input and to take a sample;
- a gyro; - a gimbal;
- a magnetometer; a pH meter.a
According to an aspect of the invention, the plurality of sensors 105 is integrated in the interfacing device 104. Preferably, the interface device 104 is a smartphone.
According to an aspect of the invention, the interfacing device 104 comprises: a log-in system for a plurality of users, and / or a management system for the plurality of sensors 105, and / or a management system for the NIR spectrometer 102, and / or a management software for the history of the analysis carried out, and / or a system for sending a draft analysis to an accredited professional / biologist, and / or a connection system with a LIS, LIMS system. According to an aspect of the invention, the at least one support 101 is configured to allow analyzing a sample by NIR spectroscopy and is comprised in the group consisting of:
9 - a closed compartment, which can be isolated from the outside in order to protect the sample contained therein; a couvette, of the disposable or in-line type for continuous surveys; - an absorbent paper or similar material.
According to one aspect of the invention, the couvette which forms part of the support 101 is disposable, therefore replaceable with each new sampling.
According to an aspect of the invention, the couvette which forms part of the support 101 is part of an in-line system, so it can be used for continuous monitoring. For example, a raft on a river with the system mounted: during navigation, they can or scans be performed every certain time either on the basis of the signals coming from the plurality of sensors 105 or on the basis of the information received from a central system 100b.
Advantageously according to the invention, the system 100 allows to carry out the detection on a liquid drop without layering on bibulous paper. Support 101 is suitable for acquiring one or more environmental samples considered. The support 101 is also suitable for being subjected to NIRS scanning through the use
10 of the NIR spectrometer 102, in such a way as to allow the detection of the chemical, physical and / or biological characteristics contained in the sample considered.
Advantageously according to the invention, the support 101 allows you to analyze a sample by NIR spectroscopy.
According to an aspect of the invention, the system 100 comprises a central system 100b, comprising:
- a second sorting center 110b connected to at least a first sorting center 110a and at least one network or external data source;
- at least one central data processing block 103b which implements artificial intelligence methods, connected to the first and second data processing blocks 103a', 103a" and configured to process the data collected and processed by the at least one first system 100a together with external data;
- a second data management block 111b suitable for storing the data processed by the central data processing block 103b.
According to an embodiment of the invention, shown in Figure 3, the central system 100b is connected to a plurality of first systems 100a, each of which detects data by means of its own plurality of sensors 105 and by means of its own NIR spectrometer 102, said data being collected and processed a
11 first time by each first system 100a and subsequently integrated and further processed, by means of the central system 100b.
According to one aspect of the invention, the system 100 comprises at least one "unmanned vehicle" (UV), in which a local group 120 is integrated.
For example, UV is a land vehicle, drone or boat. The UV is configured to be located in the predefined sampling point, or in successive times in a series of sampling points, to take at least one sample, continuously or discretely, and to analyze it by means of the NIR spectrometer 102 and the plurality of sensors 105.
In one embodiment, the system 100 comprises a plurality of UVs, or fleets, each UV being equipped with the local group 120 and connecting with the central system 100b.
As shown in the figure in figure 4, according to an embodiment, the system 100 comprises a plurality of local groups 120', 120", ..., 120n each connected to a first system
100a through the first sorting center 110a. According to one aspect of the invention, the second sorting center 110b is connected to the internet and to each first system 100a.
12 According to one aspect of the invention, the second sorting center 110b is configured to perform at least one of the following operations:
Geolocation and interaction and alignment with GIS systems of each system 120;
- Automatic emission of warning signals, in the event that the data detected exceed certain threshold values;
- Automatic emission of alert signals, in the event that external systems (for example internet or satellite data) detect anomalies;
Issue of processed data and forecasts relating to epidemics / zoonoses / pollutants / environmental and / or chemical-physical alterations.
The function of automatic emission of warning signals is particularly advantageous in the case in which many samplings are carried out, in different sampling points, in order to highlight any anomaly linked to exceeding threshold values automatically associated with the sampling point and the time considered. Furthermore, the system 100 allows, through the emission of warning signals due to anomalies detected by external systems, to carry out targeted sampling, for example in areas which, from satellite detection or from data available
13 on the network, show anomalous conditions of turbidity, color, temperature or other specific environmental parameters.
The second sorting center 110b is connected to a network and from it automatically detects public data, and / or data present in the local network or on an external network or on the internet, processes them together with the data collected from the plurality of local groups 120 of each first system 100a and provides calculations and forecasts as output.
According to an aspect of the invention, as shown in Figure 1, the NIR spectrometer 102 is connected to the interfacing device 104 in such a way as to send, by means of an internet connection, to said first data processing block 103a', according to the analysis needs, the spectrum resulting from the analysis of the sample considered. According to an aspect of the invention, the NIR spectrometer 102 is connected directly to the first data processing block 103a', or by means of an internet connection in such a way as to send to said first data processing block 103a' the spectrum resulting from the analysis of the sample considered.
14 According to one aspect of the invention, the first data processing block 103a', and / or the second data processing block 103a", can be local or remote.
According to one aspect of the invention, the first and second data processing blocks 103a' and 103a" are contained in the first sorting center 110a.
In use, the NIR spectrometer 102 acquires the sample by making a set N number of scans for each sample. Furthermore, the plurality of sensors 105 detects data associated with the detection such as: geolocation, temperature,...etc.
The spectrum data obtained from the scans are automatically sent to the data processing block 103a', 103a", via the first sorting center 110a. The data processing blocks 103a', 103a" are configured to carry out the post processing and analysis phases of the received data, and send them in real time by means of the first sorting center 110a, to the first data management block 111a and / or to the interfacing device 104, since it is possible that there is more than one and of which at least one is located remotely from the sensor itself, it can be found in the analysis laboratory or the environmental monitoring body in question.
15 In use, the data collected in situ by the system 100 using NIRS of a sample, are sent to the data processing block, and, optionally, to a predefined professional for reporting the data, finally the result of the analysis is sent to whoever has commissioned the environmental analysis, that is typically a public or private body or an environmental analysis laboratory.
Advantageously, according to the invention, the results of the analyzes carried out on the sample in an economical and simple way using NIRS, are transmitted in real time to the environmental monitoring body or to a data processing center.
Advantageously according to the invention, the environmental data are optionally verified and checked by a professional to increase the reliability of the NIRS analysis performed.
According to an aspect of the invention, the first processing block 103a' and the second processing block 103a", and the central data processing block 103b each comprise a block for quality control, a block for the pre-analytical preparation of the scans, one or more libraries standardized, a block comprising specific and parameterized machine learning algorithms.
16 In use, in the application of the system 100 for the analysis of air quality, a "Surface Air System" can be used for the acquisition of the sample, that is an impact concentrator that conveys the sucked air directly onto the support 101. Note the flow of air passing through the concentrator, the data relating to the chemical / physical parameter considered is obtained and the NIRS is carried out to obtain the spectrum to be sent, together with the data detected by the plurality of sensors 105, to a processing step. In use, for example in the application of the system 100 to water analysis, an operator takes a small sample of water in the field and places it on the support 101. Alternatively, the sampling can take place automatically by means of an autonomous vehicle. The portable infrared spectrometer 102 acquires the sample and analyzes it. System 100 provides as output, optionally viewable on a screen, a compliance or non- compliance signal of the water analyzed based on the parameters detected in the sample with respect to a data set of predetermined values, which for example may correspond to regulatory limits for chemical or biological components. The data emerging from the analysis of each sample are associated
17 with the data relating to the plurality of sensors 105, including the geolocation of the sampling point.
The data collected and processed by at least one first system 100a are sent and processed by artificial intelligence methods by the central system 100b.
In this way, advantageously, it is possible to carry out in the field in a practical, fast and economical way qualitative or quantitative measurements of a series of parameters relating to the analyzed sample, such as for example the presence of one or more predefined contaminants or their concentration. Furthermore, the system allows you to make a first selection by discriminating between compliant samples that do not require further analysis compared to those that, not being compliant, can be sent to an analysis laboratory for further investigations.
Advantageously, finally, the first system 100a allows to associate the relative chemical and biological characteristics to each sampling as well as the site in which the sampling took place and its time reference. Further applications of the system and the method according to the invention are the chemical-biological analysis of the land, for example to assess its contamination by
18 pesticides, the indirect evaluation of the pollution of certain areas using parameters detected in products such as honey or wax of bees, the preliminary assessment of the healthiness and quality of products intended for human consumption, such as milk, oil, wine.
Further applications of the system and method according to the invention are the chemical-physical and / or biological analysis of soils and the atmosphere of space bodies such as comets, asteroids, satellites and planets. As previously mentioned, the present invention also relates to a method 200 for acquiring, transmitting and processing environmental data.
In particular, the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing method 200 according to the invention comprises the steps of:
- 201 of acquiring a sample to be analyzed, for example by taking a small sample of water, said sample being able for example to be solid, liquid or gaseous;
- 202 of placing the sample on a support 101; - 203 of subjecting the sample placed on the support 101 to NIR spectroscopy by means of an infrared spectrometer 102
19 and acquiring the spectrum of the sample by means of NIR spectroscopy;
- 204 of acquiring data detected by a plurality of sensors
105; - 205 of associating the NIR spectrum of the sample and the data detected by the plurality of sensors 105 with data relating to the geolocation of the sampling point detected by means of a geolocation system;
- 206 of sending the spectrum obtained and the other data to a sorting center configured to carry out the transmission of the spectrum and the other acquired data to at least one processing block, and to store the data and processing on the database, and send the data to an interfacing device 104;
207 of emitting an output signal relating to the conformity or non-conformity of the spectrum and / or data with respect to predetermined values;
- 208 of creating and updating in real time geographical maps relating to the environmental values detected and the associated chemical-biological risk. According to one aspect of the invention, step 203 comprises:
20 - Carrying out the acquisition of a plurality of NIRS spectra, preferably of at least five NIRS spectra, of the sample.
According to one aspect of the invention, the method 200 also comprises:
- Analyzg spectrum data using a quality control block;
- Analyzing spectrum data using a pre-analytical scan preparation block;
- Associating data relating to the geolocation of the sampling, etc .. to each spectrum by means of a data processing block 103a";
- Submitting spectrum data to one or more standardized libraries;
Subjecting the spectrum data to one or more blocks including specific and parameterized machine learning algorithms.
According to an aspect of the invention, the step 202 of depositing the sample on the support 101 can be repeated several times as the user repeats the operation for one or more samples.
According to an aspect of the invention, the step of elaborating the result of the analysis on the examined sample
21 takes place by means of the application of artificial intelligence methods, or of "machine learning" algorithms, optimized for the environmental parameter examined, not excluding the application of more ad hoc methods for a more accurate prediction. To this end, machine learning methods will be used alone or in combination, depending on the outcome of ad hoc "selection" fractures.
Advantageously, the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method according to the invention are economical and precise.
Advantageously, the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing method according to the invention, by means of the analysis and processing steps carried out by the first and second processing blocks 103a', 103a" and by the central data processing block 103b, allows to overcome the low precision of the NIRS technique and being able to make advanced calculations, access reference databases and apply specific mathematical models, based on machine learning and artificial intelligence and appropriately parameterized, to the data obtained.
Advantageously according to the invention, the first and second processing blocks 103a', 103a" and the central data
22 processing block 103b use in the data analysis an algorithm optimized for each chemical-biological parameter considered.
Advantageously, the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method according to the invention are versatile, presenting a wide range of applications.
Advantageously, the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method according to the invention can be carried out without having to take a large number of samples, send the sample to an analysis laboratory and wait for the elaboration of the relative result.
Advantageously, according to the invention, the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method are low or cost. Advantageously, the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method according to the invention do not involve the use of chemical reagents.
Advantageously, according to the invention, the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing data system and method are not destructive with respect to the sample used.
23 Finally, it is clear that modifications and variations may be made to the environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system and method described and illustrated here without departing from the protective scope of the present invention, as defined in the attached claims.
24

Claims

1. Environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system (100), comprising: at least one first system (100a) comprising: - at least one local group (120) comprising: at least one support (101) for at least one sample to be analyzed; at least one NIR spectrometer (102) configured to acquire the spectrum of the at least one sample; at least one interfacing device (104); - at least one first data processing block (103a') connected to the at least one NIR spectrometer (102) and configured to receive the spectrum acquired by the at least one NIR spectrometer (102) and to process the data related to the acquired spectrum, and a second data processing block (103a"); at least one first data management block (111a) configured to store the data acquired by the at least one portable NIR spectrometer (102), to make said data available respectively for the at least one first and for the second data processing block (103af, 103a"), and to save the data processed respectively by said at least one first data processing block (103af) and by the second data processing block (103a");
25 - a first sorting center (110a) provided with a local or remote data connection able to connect said first sorting center (110a) to the NIR spectrometer (102), to the at least one first data management block (111a), and to the at least one first and to the second data processing block (103a', 103a"); said at least one local group (120) being connected to the first sorting center (110a) and said at least one interfacing device (104) being able to start and manage the at least one first system (100a) and configured for receiving in real time data analyzed by the at least one first and by the second data processing block (103af, 103a").
2. Environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system (100), according to claim 1 characterized in that: said at least one local group (120) comprises a plurality of sensors (105);
- said second data processing block (103a") being connected to the plurality of sensors (105) and configured to process data collected by said plurality of sensors (105);
- said at least one first data management block (111a) being configured to store the data acquired by the at least one portable NIR spectrometer (102) and by the plurality of sensors (105), to make said data available respectively for
26 the at least one first and for the second data processing block (103af, 103a"), and to save the data processed respectively by said at least one first data processing block (103af) and by the second data processing block (103a"); - said first sorting center (110a) being provided with a local or remote data connection able to connect said first sorting center (110a) to the NIR spectrometer (102), to the plurality of sensors (105), to the at least one first data management block (111a), and to the at least one first and to the second data processing block (103a', 103a").
3. Environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in comprising a central system (100b), said central system (100b) comprising: - at least one central data processing block (103b) able to implement artificial intelligence methods, connected to the first sorting center (110a) and configured to process the data collected and processed by the at least one first system (100a) together with external data; - a second data management block (111b) able to store and make available data processed by the at least one central data processing block (103b), external data and data transmitted by the first sorting center (110a);
27 - a second sorting center (110b) connected to the first sorting center (110a), to at least one network or external data source, to at least one second data management block (111b), and to at least one central data processing block (103b)
4. Environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in comprising at least one unmanned vehicle in which a local group (120) is integrated. 5. Environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one portable NIR spectrometer (102), the plurality of sensors (105) and the at least one interfacing device (104) are connected to the first sorting center (110a) by means of an Internet connection.
6. Environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of sensors (105) comprises at least one of sensors included within the group consisting of: - a camera;
- an acoustic sensor; a geolocation system configured to detect data concerning geographical coordinates of the local group
28 (120), said data being able to be sent to the second sorting center (110b);
- a barometer;
- a radio wave measuring unit; - a temperature detector;
- an effector configured to receive a command input and to take a sample.
7. Environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that the second sorting center (110b) is connected to the Internet and to each first system (100a), and is configured to perform at least one of the following operations:
Geolocation, interaction and alignment with GIS systems of each first system (100a); - Automatic issue of warning signals, in the event that the data detected exceed specific threshold values;
- Automatic issue of alert signals, in the event that external systems detect anomalies;
Issue of processed data and forecasts concerning control activities regarding epidemics / zoonoses / pollutants / environmental/chemical-physical alterations.
8. Environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one interfacing device (104) comprises:
29 a log-in system for a plurality of users, a management system for the plurality of sensors (105), a management system for the NIR spectrometer (102), a management system able to process the historical data concerning the performed analysis, a system for sending a draft related to analysis to an accredited professional/biologist, a connection system to a LIS, LIMS system.
9. Environmental data acquisition, transmission and processing system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that said at least one support (101) is configured to allow to analyze a sample through NIR spectroscopy and is comprised in the group consisting of:
- a closed compartment;
- a cuvette; - an absorbent paper or similar material.
10. Method (200) for acquiring, transmitting and processing environmental data, comprising the steps of:
(201) Acquiring at least one solid, liquid or gaseous environmental sample; - (202) Placing the sample over at least one support (101)
(203) Acquiring the spectrum of the sample through NIR spectroscopy;
(204) Acquiring data detected by a plurality of sensors
(105);
30 (205) Associating the NIR spectrum of the sample, related also to the data detected by the plurality of sensors (105), with data concerning the geolocation of the sampling point detected by means of a geolocation system;
(206) Sending the spectrum acquired and the other data to a sorting center configured to perform the transmission of the spectrum, and the other acquired data, to at least one processing block, to perform the storing of the data and processing in the database, and to send the data to an interfacing device (104);
(207) Issuing an output signal related to the compliance or non-compliance of the spectrum and/or data with respect to predefined values; - (208) Creating and updating in real time geographical maps concerning the detected environmental values and the associated chemical-biological risk.
31
PCT/IB2021/060153 2021-05-13 2021-11-03 System and method of acquisition, transmission and processing of environmental data WO2022238755A1 (en)

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Citations (3)

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US10520482B2 (en) * 2012-06-01 2019-12-31 Agerpoint, Inc. Systems and methods for monitoring agricultural products

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US10520482B2 (en) * 2012-06-01 2019-12-31 Agerpoint, Inc. Systems and methods for monitoring agricultural products
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