SMART WATER STORAGE TANK FOR CONTINUOUS QUALITY MONITORING AND ALGAE DETECTION

Abstract

The invention relates to a smart water storage tank designed for continuous monitoring of drinking water quality in residential settings. Constructed from durable UPVC, the tank integrates multiple sensors that measure key parameters, including electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), pH levels, and algal growth. These sensors are strategically positioned at various depths to ensure comprehensive assessment. Data collected by the sensors is processed by a microcontroller, which compares the values to predefined safety standards and triggers alerts via Wi-Fi and GSM modules if deviations occur. A solar power system with a rechargeable battery supports uninterrupted operation, even during power outages. The user-friendly interface provides real-time data, empowering homeowners to manage their water quality proactively. This automated monitoring system enhances water safety, reduces the need for manual inspections, and promotes efficient water management, ultimately ensuring that stored drinking water remains safe for consumption.

Specification

Description:The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner it
is to be performed.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The technical field of the invention encompasses water quality monitoring and management systems specifically designed for residential drinking water storage. It integrates advanced sensor technologies for continuous measurement of key parameters such as electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), pH levels, and algal presence. The system employs a microcontroller for data processing and real-time communication with mobile devices via Wi-Fi and GSM modules. Utilizing durable materials like UPVC for construction, the invention focuses on enhancing water safety, reducing manual inspection requirements, and promoting sustainable practices through solar power integration. This technology addresses critical challenges in maintaining safe drinking water in rooftop septic tanks.
BACKGROUND
[002] The increasing awareness of water quality issues in residential settings underscores the urgent need for effective monitoring systems. Traditional methods primarily rely on manual inspections and periodic testing, which can lead to significant delays in detecting contaminants. These methods often lack the immediacy required for timely interventions, resulting in potential health risks for consumers. As public concern about safe drinking water grows, innovative solutions that offer real-time assessments become essential to ensure water remains safe for consumption.
[003] R100446463B1, primarily focus on specialized applications like mobile marine freshwater storage, which limits their relevance to residential water quality management. These patents typically do not address the comprehensive monitoring of multiple drinking water quality parameters within a single system. Many current solutions assess only one or two key factors, leaving a significant gap for integrated technologies that can simultaneously measure electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), pH levels, and algal growth-crucial indicators of water quality.
[004] A significant limitation of conventional water quality monitoring systems is their lack of effective communication capabilities. Many of these systems rely on manual data collection methods, which can lead to inaccuracies and inefficiencies. By integrating advanced communication technologies, such as Wi-Fi and GSM modules, the proposed invention enables real-time alerts and notifications to be sent directly to users. This feature allows for prompt responses to any detected changes in water quality, significantly enhancing user engagement and safety.
[005] Furthermore, existing solutions often depend on external power sources for operation, which can disrupt monitoring capabilities during power outages. The proposed invention addresses this challenge by incorporating solar power and a rechargeable battery system. This sustainable approach ensures continuous operation, even in areas with limited access to electricity, enhancing the overall reliability and accessibility of the water monitoring system.
[006] User-friendly interfaces are often overlooked in current monitoring solutions, which can complicate user interaction and data interpretation. Many existing devices present information in complex formats that can be confusing for non-technical users. The proposed invention aims to simplify data presentation through a clear and intuitive display interface, allowing homeowners to easily understand real-time water quality information and any necessary actions they may need to take.
[007] While some existing systems have been designed for larger-scale applications, there remains a clear need for compact solutions specifically tailored for residential use. The proposed smart water storage tank is engineered for rooftop septic systems, providing a practical and efficient means to manage water quality in constrained urban spaces. By focusing on residential applications, this invention meets a critical need in modern water management practices.
[008] Many traditional systems neglect proactive maintenance aspects, which can lead to long-term issues in water quality management. By implementing continuous monitoring and real-time alerts, the invention promotes timely interventions, thereby minimizing health risks associated with compromised water quality. This proactive approach ensures that users can take corrective actions before minor issues escalate into significant problems.
[009] The invention integrates advanced sensor technology with automated data processing capabilities, distinguishing it from conventional monitoring methods. By providing ongoing assessments and timely notifications regarding water quality parameters, this solution not only enhances safety but also improves overall user convenience. This advancement represents a significant step forward in residential water management practices, ensuring that safe drinking water is consistently maintained for all users.
SUMMARY
[010] The Smart Water Storage Tank is an innovative solution designed for continuous monitoring of drinking water quality in residential settings. Constructed from durable UPVC, the tank incorporates advanced sensors that measure critical parameters, including electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), pH levels, and algal growth. These sensors are strategically placed at various depths to ensure comprehensive assessment, providing users with accurate and real-time data regarding their water supply.
[011] A central microcontroller processes the data collected from the sensors, comparing it against established safety standards. If any parameter deviates from acceptable levels, the system promptly triggers alerts to the user's mobile device via Wi-Fi and GSM modules. This real-time communication enables immediate action, ensuring that users are informed of potential issues before they escalate, thereby enhancing the safety of the drinking water.
[012] To support sustainable operation, the tank is equipped with a solar power system that minimizes reliance on external electricity sources. A rechargeable battery stores energy generated by the solar panel, ensuring uninterrupted monitoring even during periods of low sunlight. This eco-friendly design not only promotes energy efficiency but also makes the system suitable for remote areas where access to power may be limited.
[013] User convenience is a key aspect of the invention, with an intuitive display interface that presents real-time data in a clear and accessible manner. This user-friendly design allows homeowners to easily monitor their water quality without requiring technical expertise. By simplifying the interaction, the invention empowers users to take control of their water management, fostering proactive maintenance practices.
[014] The Smart Water Storage Tank addresses critical challenges in residential water quality management by integrating continuous monitoring, real-time alerts, and sustainable operation. This comprehensive system reduces the need for manual inspections, improves response times to potential contamination, and ensures that stored drinking water remains safe and suitable for consumption, significantly enhancing overall user confidence in their water supply.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[015] The foregoing detailed description of embodiments is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating of the present subject matter, an example of the construction of the present subject matter is provided as figures; however, the invention is not limited to the specific method disclosed in the document and the figures.
[016] The present subject matter is described in detail with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to various features of the present subject matter.
[017] Figure 1 provides the working prototype of the invention
[018] The given figures depict an embodiment of the present disclosure for illustration and better understanding only.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[019] Some of the embodiments of this disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. The words "comprising," "having," "containing," and "including," and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open-ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[020] The Smart Water Storage Tank is designed to ensure continuous monitoring of drinking water quality through a comprehensive integration of advanced sensor technology and real-time communication systems. The tank is constructed from durable UPVC material, ensuring both chemical resistance and suitability for potable water storage. This material choice also supports the longevity and integrity of the tank, preventing contamination from external sources.
[021] The system is equipped with multiple sensors positioned at various depths within the tank. These sensors measure key water quality parameters: electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), pH levels, and algal presence. Each sensor operates continuously, gathering data that reflects the real-time condition of the water. This strategic placement allows for a thorough assessment of water quality throughout the entire volume of the tank, minimizing dead zones where issues could go undetected.
[022] In one embodiment it is provided that, the data collected by the sensors is transmitted to a central microcontroller, which serves as the brain of the system. This microcontroller processes the incoming data, comparing it against predefined safety standards for drinking water. If any parameter deviates from acceptable ranges, the microcontroller generates alerts, triggering notifications to the user's mobile device. This automated data processing enhances the efficiency and accuracy of water quality management.
[023] The communication modules integrated into the system consist of both Wi-Fi and GSM technologies. This dual communication method ensures that users receive timely alerts regardless of their location, offering a reliable means of staying informed about water quality conditions. The inclusion of SMS notifications via GSM provides an essential backup, particularly in scenarios where Wi-Fi connectivity may be unreliable.
[024] In one embodiment it is provided, that to promote sustainable operation, the Smart Water Storage Tank features a solar power system that harnesses sunlight to power the sensors and microcontroller. A rechargeable battery stores excess energy, ensuring uninterrupted monitoring even during periods of low sunlight or power outages. This eco-friendly approach enhances the overall reliability of the system, making it suitable for residential applications in remote or off-grid locations.
[025] The user interface of the system includes a clear and intuitive display that provides real-time information about water quality parameters. This interface allows homeowners to easily monitor the condition of their drinking water without requiring technical expertise. The simplicity of the design encourages user engagement, empowering individuals to take proactive steps in managing their water supply.
[026] In terms of methodology, the system operates on a continuous monitoring loop. Sensors gather data at specified intervals, which the microcontroller processes and analyzes. Alerts are generated based on comparative analysis with established drinking water standards, facilitating immediate user notification. This process not only streamlines water quality management but also fosters a proactive approach to maintaining safe drinking water.
[027] The advantages of the Smart Water Storage Tank are manifold. Continuous monitoring significantly reduces the need for manual inspections, allowing homeowners to focus on other tasks while the system manages their water quality. Real-time alerts ensure timely interventions in case of contamination, mitigating health risks associated with unsafe water. Additionally, the integration of sustainable energy solutions supports environmentally friendly practices.
[028] Discussions surrounding this invention reveal its potential impact on public health and safety. By providing a reliable means of monitoring drinking water quality, the Smart Water Storage Tank addresses growing concerns about waterborne diseases and contamination. Its design can be adapted for various residential settings, making it a versatile solution for diverse communities. Overall, this invention represents a significant advancement in residential water management, combining technology with practical applications to enhance water safety and user convenience.
[029] Referring to Figure 1, depicts a modern smart water storage tank designed for residential use, showcasing its sleek and durable UPVC construction, which ensures the safe containment of drinking water. The tank features multiple sensors strategically positioned at various depths to monitor critical water quality parameters, including electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), pH levels, and algal growth. A microcontroller, prominently displayed, serves as the central processing unit, receiving data from the sensors and transmitting alerts to a user-friendly interface. This interface, likely depicted on a mobile device or touchscreen, provides real-time updates and notifications regarding water quality. Additionally, the tank is equipped with solar panels, indicating its sustainable energy source, while a battery backup ensures continuous operation even during low sunlight conditions. Overall, the image effectively illustrates the integration of advanced technology and eco-friendly design aimed at enhancing water safety and user convenience in residential settings.
, Claims:1. A smart water storage tank for continuous monitoring of drinking water quality, comprising:
A. Integrated sensors for measuring:
a. Electrical conductivity (EC) sensor to assess ion concentration in the water;
b. Total dissolved solids (TDS) sensor to quantify dissolved solids for evaluating water purity;
c. pH sensor to monitor acidity or alkalinity of the water;
d. Algal growth detection sensor to identify and monitor algal presence;
B. Microcontroller that processes data from the sensors, compares it to predefined safety standards, and triggers alerts for deviations;
C. Communication modules utilizing both Wi-Fi and GSM technologies to transmit real-time alerts and notifications to the user's mobile device;
D. Solar power system with a rechargeable battery to ensure continuous operation of the monitoring system, even during power outages;
E. User interface that displays real-time water quality information, enabling easy monitoring and management by the user.
2. The smart water storage tank of claim 1, wherein the electrical conductivity (EC) sensor is calibrated to provide readings that comply with established drinking water safety standards.
3. The smart water storage tank of claim 1, wherein the total dissolved solids (TDS) sensor is configured to send alerts when TDS levels exceed predetermined thresholds.
4. The smart water storage tank of claim 1, wherein the pH sensor is designed to automatically calibrate itself to maintain measurement accuracy over time.
5. The smart water storage tank of claim 1, wherein the algal growth detection sensor employs optical sensing technology to provide real-time monitoring of algal concentrations.
6. The smart water storage tank of claim 1, wherein the microcontroller is programmed to store historical data for water quality parameters to facilitate trend analysis.
7. The smart water storage tank of claim 1, wherein the communication modules include an application interface for mobile devices, allowing users to access water quality data remotely.
8. The smart water storage tank of claim 1, wherein the solar power system is equipped with a charge controller to optimize battery performance and extend system longevity.

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