Water quality analysis system and method
Inventors
Anderson, Michael J. • Smith, Clint B. • Fisher, Andmorgan R. • Ly, Tung
Assignees
United States Department of the Army
Publication Number
US-10288595-B2
Publication Date
2019-05-14
Expiration Date
2035-05-20
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Abstract
The present invention provides a water quality analysis system capable of making multiple simultaneous measurements of different water quality parameters and saving or transmitting this data for analysis. A housing surrounds a data processor and a water sensor flow cell. The flow cell incorporates a channel through which a stream of water flows. Multiple probe bores within the flow cell house different sensor probes used to measure different water quality parameters of the stream. The data processor receives and digitizes data for the different water quality parameters.
Core Innovation
The present invention provides a water quality analysis system capable of making multiple simultaneous measurements of different water quality parameters and saving or transmitting this data for analysis. The system includes a housing surrounding a data processor and a water sensor flow cell. The flow cell incorporates a channel through which a stream of water flows and multiple probe bores within the flow cell house different sensor probes used to measure the various water quality parameters of the stream.
The water sensor flow cell apparatus includes a manifold body with a water channel extending between a cell inlet and a cell outlet, where at least one probe bore connects to the water channel at a non-zero angle. Each probe bore contains a sensor probe in communication with the water channel. The data processor receives and digitizes data from the different sensor probes, and the housing encloses the flow cell and data processor with corresponding inlets and outlets for water flow.
The invention addresses the problem in the art of water testing sensors that are difficult to use for continuous measurements, typically are set up individually for single parameter measurement, and existing manifolds requiring advance set-up and not designed for all-inclusive flow characteristics. There is a recognized need for a compact water quality analysis system capable of measuring and transmitting multiple water quality parameters simultaneously over a continuous period, integrating multiple types of data for general-purpose use.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes two independent claims covering a water sensor flow cell apparatus and a water quality analysis system, each with multiple inventive features.
Water sensor flow cell apparatus with angled probe bores and diverse bore configurations
The apparatus comprises a manifold body with a water channel between a cell inlet and outlet, where the outlet is located above the inlet. It has multiple probe bores connected operably to the water channel, with at least one bore connecting at a non-zero angle. The probe bores differ from each other in shape, cross-sectional size, or length, and at least one bore contains a sensor probe. Each sensor probe is held in place by a sealable and removable probe cap, allowing easy replacement or calibration.
Water quality analysis system integrating flow cell, data processor, and housing
The system includes the water sensor flow cell apparatus and further comprises a data processor operatively connected to at least one sensor probe, having a receiver for data reception. A housing surrounds the flow cell and data processor and includes a housing inlet and outlet. This configuration provides an integrated unit for measurement and data handling.
These inventive features collectively provide a compact water quality analysis system that allows continuous and simultaneous measurement of multiple water quality parameters, with adaptable probe configurations and integrated data processing within a sealed housing.
Stated Advantages
Enables multiple simultaneous measurements of different water quality parameters.
Allows continuous measurements with integrated data digitization, storage, and transmission capabilities.
Compact and general-purpose design suitable for fieldwork without extensive advance setup.
Documented Applications
Testing of water quality before and after purification processes to ensure water meets specific standards.
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