Solution Overview

With the advancement of smart city initiatives, monitoring urban underground drainage networks has become increasingly critical. Innovations in next-generation sensors and IoT technologies have driven the development of intelligent and mature pipeline monitoring systems.

Underground pipelines require real-time monitoring of liquid levels and flow rates in manholes. Compared to traditional submerged sensors, radar-based flow meters and level gauges offer compact size, easy installation, non-contact operation, low failure rates, and minimal maintenance. These advantages have led to their widespread adoption in pipeline monitoring scenarios.

This solution employs non-contact radar sensors and low-power IoT transmission to collect data on flow rate, velocity, and liquid levels. Additional sensors (e.g., water quality monitors) can be integrated to capture parameters such as pH and temperature. The system provides actionable insights for daily operations, maintenance scheduling, emergency response, and overall management of drainage networks.

System Architecture

The monitoring system comprises four key components:

• Most underground sites lack grid or solar power. Battery packs (disposable or rechargeable lithium batteries) are used.
• Disposable batteries: 1–3 years lifespan, depending on data collection frequency.
• Rechargeable batteries: 3–6 months lifespan, requiring periodic recharging.

2.Wireless Data Acquisition Unit (RTU)

• Integrates Bluetooth, power management, and data transmission modules.
• Bluetooth: Enables on-site debugging via mobile apps.
• Power management: Optimizes energy use for peripheral sensors.
• Multi-protocol support: Uploads data via 4G, NB-IoT, LoRa, or Cat1 networks with up to 4 concurrent channels.
• Protocol compliance: SZY206, SL651, MQTT, etc., for seamless cloud integration.

3.Sensor Unit

• Radar flow meters, ultrasonic Doppler velocity sensors, radar/pressure level gauges, and optional water quality sensors (pH, temperature, etc.).

4.Backend Management Platform

• Web and mobile app interfaces for device management, historical data review, and real-time visualization.

Solution Selection: Decentralized Architecture

The decentralized system uses an independent underground data acquisition terminal with:

• Integrated RTU: Collects and transmits sensor data via high-gain antennas.

• Flexible battery options: Supports large-capacity or rechargeable batteries for high-frequency reporting scenarios.

Advantages:

• Scalable battery capacity.

• Easy maintenance and upgrades.

Installation Diagram：

Key Features

1. Compact Design: Easy installation in confined spaces.

2. Multi-Parameter Monitoring: Customizable sensor configurations.

3. Non-Contact Radar Technology: Measures flow, level, and velocity without physical contact, unaffected by debris or sediment.

4. Long-Lasting Power: Disposable or rechargeable battery options.

5. RTU Integration: Direct cloud upload and remote parameter adjustment.

6. Bluetooth Connectivity: On-site configuration via mobile app.

7. IP68 Protection: Resists water ingress and harsh underground conditions.
   
   

Management Platform

• Centralized Control: Web and mobile app platforms for real-time monitoring, data analysis, and device management.

• Features:

  • Device status tracking.

  • Historical data trends and reports.

  • Multi-user access and alerts.

Web Platform

Mobile App Platform

Product Technical Parameter

Radar Lever Meter

Data acquisition and transmission equipment

Applications

• Urban drainage pipeline monitoring (flow, level, water quality).

• Underground culvert and manhole monitoring.

• Discharge outlet flow, flood channels, and urban waterlogging detection.
  
  

Application Photos：