DOdata sees itself as DataHub and service provider for the future SmartCity Dortmund. We specifically combine sensor technology (Internet-of-Things), modern digital lifelines and intelligent data services in one platform approach. This results in solutions that improve the digital economy and life in our city. Translating today’s requirements of modern business and life into digital solutions is both our challenge and passion.

1.

Challenge Introduction

Recording the level of a condensate collectors in the gas network and sending the data via LoRaWAN.

2.

Challenge Details

In a gas distribution network, condensate collectors are installed to collect any liquids (e.g. water ingress and condensate from steam and other parts of the natural gas) within the distribution networks. Overflowing of the condensate collectors must be avoided urgently, otherwise the supply may fail. Since the levels of the condensate collectors cannot be determined at present, they are emptied independently of their actual level. The effort required for this is high, as the collectors are installed underground. In order to avoid unnecessary effort and associated costs as well as to increase the condition monitoring of the distribution network, we are looking for a sensor solution that records the level of these collectors and sends the data via LoRaWAN. The challenge within this solution results from the following points:

1. the sensor must be so robust that it can be installed underground and is durable and low-maintenance. The data transmission equipment as well as the power supply of the sensor should be accessible above ground.
2. the sensor must be able to measure the level through the material of the condensate collectors (usually steel, cast iron and polyethylene)
3. the determined levels should be sent to an existing IoT platform via the LoRaWAN transmission protocol
4. the sensors should be installed within in the existing network without high efforts for implementation (i.e. without civil engineering work)