Water Quality Sensors

Xinova is looking for your inventions
REQUEST FOR INVENTION (RFI)
Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Key words: Microfluidic(s), sensor, water quality sensor, point-of-use (POU), hand-held
sensor, portable sensor.
Photo source: iStock
Circulation Date: Request for Invention

May 1, 2017 RFI-170102
Water
Please read the instructions for Submission for more information on methods, terms
and conditions of your submission of Solution Reports. For the most recent closing
date for all Requests for Invention, please log in to your account at
http://network.xinova.com.
Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION

REQUEST FOR INVENTION Water // RFI-170102

SUMMARY
Xinova seeks the disclosure of inventions for low-cost water quality

sensors that use microfluidic technology.
Water quality sensors and test equipment are used broadly across the municipal,
industrial, agricultural, and environmental industries. Due to heavy regulation,
required water quality testing can be a large financial burden on government entities
and companies that are required to regularly test their water sources and/or
wastewater streams. Regularly monitored entities generally must conduct expensive
tests requiring manual collection of samples, which are then sent to a laboratory for
analysis. Results can take up to a week and can be inaccurate due to sample
contamination or chemical reactions which can alter the composition of the water
sample over time.
Additionally, consumers are increasingly suspicious of potential contamination in
municipally provided drinking water. However, currently available water quality
analysis requires laboratory testing or expensive equipment, rendering such
techniques unsuitable for everyday consumers.
Xinova seeks new solutions for water quality sensors using microfluidic technology.
Microfluidic ejector chips, or microdispensers, are low-cost to manufacture and are
capable of managing micro-scale quantities of liquids, making them an ideal
technology to disrupt the water quality sensor market. Ideal solutions would be
capable of continuously or regularly monitoring several constituents with a portable
or in-line device. In order to enter the market quickly, solutions that provide
consumers with an inexpensive, point-of-use water quality sensor that could
integrate with in-home filtration systems is highly sought after. Solutions for
commercial and municipal markets will also be considered.
Desired invention characteristics and some suggested areas of exploration

are described on page 10.
Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 2


Problem Definition
Xinova seeks inventions for low-cost water quality sampling devices that
use microfluidic technology.
There is an increasing need for improved water quality monitoring across a broad
range of applications, including municipal and industrial wastewaters, as well as
drinking water and environmental waters (e.g. lakes, rivers, groundwater, and
marine) and other aquatic environments (e.g. agriculture and fish farms). In
addition, the general public has become increasingly health conscious, informed,
and skeptical, which has led to greater reluctance to rely solely on data reported by
industry and governments regarding their tap water quality. These drivers have
motivated many to implement water quality testing in their residence on either a
sampling or continuous real-time basis. Given the societal, municipal, and
environmental challenges associated with water quality, there is a significant need
for efficient, effective, and economical portable water quality sensor devices.
Water analysis is typically performed via one of three methods, namely laboratory
analysis, in-line analysis, or with portable equipment for field analysis. In most
municipal systems in developed countries, in-line monitoring of many water quality
indicators occurs at the water source, after treatment, and prior to entering
distribution systems. These systems are sophisticated and costly, and not all
required water quality parameters can be tested with in-line sensors. Additionally,
while water quality can be affected during distribution, water quality testing at the
consumer side (point-of-entry or point-of-use) is neither well established nor
economical.
Tests on ground water, lakes, rivers, and other natural water bodies are routinely
performed on a field sampling basis in critical areas. Analysis of field-collected
samples typically involves submitting samples for laboratory analysis. These
methods are time-consuming, susceptible to undetected anomalies, and provide a
relatively small snapshot of the geographic water quality. In addition, transport and
storage conditions can skew or otherwise compromise results. A field-based
analysis platform would drastically improve efficiency, improve data reliability, and
reduce cost.
Xinova is seeking water quality sensor designs that incorporate a microfluidic
technology known as a micro-dispenser. Micro-dispensers (or μdispensers) are
inexpensive to manufacture at high volumes and are capable of high precision liquid
dosages in volumes less than one microliter. This makes them an ideal technology
to disrupt the water quality sensor market. The solution will ideally be a
μdispenser, combined with optimized microfluidic structures and in conjunction with
various detection modalities (e.g. optical, bio, and/or MEMS).


Why This Problem Is Valuable to Solve
Approximately 3 billion people in developing nations do not have adequate, safe

drinking water; this deficiency is linked to over 35% of all deaths in those countriesi.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), water-borne illnesses lead to 1.8
million deaths annually, primarily in developing countries. Even countries with more
established water supply infrastructure are susceptible to contamination through
anomalous events (such as weather and industrial spillage) or even intentional
contamination (resulting from terrorism and/or environmental irresponsibility).
Inexpensive water quality sensors can mitigate the spread of contamination by
reducing the financial burden of extensive water quality testing throughout treatment
and distribution lines. In addition, continuous monitoring will allow for earlier
detection of contamination events, which could reduce public exposure to harmful
organisms or compounds.
Background
μdispenser Technology
The μdispenser to be used in solutions for this RFI operates by applying energy to a
reservoir containing a liquid, thereby moving the liquid and causing the liquid in
contact with the sides of the reservoir to form a vapor bubble. The formation and
collapsing cycle of the so-formed vapor bubble creates a one-directional dispensing
action.
The figure below illustrates a μdispenser.
Figure 1: μdispenser
Source: Funai Corporation
Specifically, the μdispenser is heated by resistive (i.e. joule) heating, wherein a

voltage is applied to the resistor for a few micro-seconds. Subsequently, the
resistor rapidly heats up to a high temperature and nucleates a bubble at the fluid


contact points. The bubble grows explosively, thereby causing the inertial
dispensing, after which point the bubble then collapses.
Assuming 50Ω per resistor and a 10V supply to create a mature bubble, the power
consumption of the μdispenser is roughly 2W. The energy required is typically in
the μJ range because the pulse applied is in the μsecond range.
While a single resistor is capable of dispensing 50pL per firing, the multiple resistors
can be combined. For example, 100 resistors firing simultaneously will create
5,000pL, or 5nL, for each sequence. Assuming they are firing at 5KHz (i.e. 5,000
events/second), then the flow rate will be 25 μL/second.
The pressure the μdispenser generates depends on the channel geometry. In
general, however, it can be assumed that the μdispenser can achieve a flow rate of
250μL/s for water in a pipe with a diameter of 100μL and a length of 10mm.
Water Quality Regulations
The United States (US) Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates drinking
water, surface water, and wastewater in the US through the Clean Water Act and
the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). The Clean Water Act gave the EPA authority
to implement pollution control programs for discharges into navigable waters of the
US, while the Safe Drinking Water Act authorizes the EPA to protect all drinking
water. To enforce these Acts, the EPA has developed a number of rules, standards,
and programs that designate the water quality industrial and municipal agencies
are required to achieve in order to distribute or discharge water. Oftentimes, there
is additional regulation at the state and local level that may be more stringent or
demanding than EPA requirements.
The EPA has set legal limits on over 90 contaminants in drinking water alone. The
legal limit for a contaminant is what is required to protect human health and that is
achievable by water systems using the best available science/technology. To
ensure compliance, the EPA also sets water-testing schedules and methods that
water providers must followii.
Water Quality Parameters
Water quality sensors are currently used to analyze a wide variety of parameters,
including pH, temperature, conductivity, TDS (total dissolved solids), free chlorine,
fluorine, E. coli, nitrates, phosphates, various heavy metals, and pathogens. The
most common indicators for water quality are pH, conductivity, temperature,
dissolved oxygen, and turbidity. The following section provides a brief description of
these commonly used parameters and general detection methods.
pH – Measurement of pH is the measure of hydrogen ion concentration in water;
this is used to classify water as acidic, basic, or neutral. Most natural water sources
are between 6.0 and 8.5 pH. This is an important parameter to measure because
biological and chemical processes are affected by pH, particularly at values below
4.5 and greater than 9.5. Water pH can be measured via indicator reagents, pH
test strips, or metal electrode methods, but is most commonly measured using
glass electrodes.


Conductivity – Ionic concentration in water can be correlated with conductivity,
where higher ion concentrations correlate with higher conductivity. Saline water
has substantially higher conductivity than freshwater systems. Typical drinking
water has a conductivity in the range of 5-50 milli-siemens per meter (mS/m),
while sea water has a conductivity about 1,000 times higher, at 5 S/m. High
conductivity levels indicate water which is less suitable for irrigation or drinking.
Temperature – Water temperature is an important parameter to measure, as it
has profound effects on the biological and chemical processes which sustain or
deteriorate a clean water supply. Temperature also has a direct correlation with
dissolved oxygen concentration, which decreases as temperature increases.
Dissolved Oxygen – Dissolved oxygen (DO) is the concentration of gaseous
oxygen (O2) dissolved in water by surface air diffusion, aeration of water in
turbulence, and as a byproduct of photosynthesis. Dissolved oxygen is necessary
for aquatic life; however, in high concentrations it can be harmful to aquatic life.
For community drinking water supplies, a high level of DO improves taste, yet
levels that are too high can accelerate pipe corrosion. Industries typically use
water from 2.0ppm to 0.007ppm or lower. Dissolved oxygen measurements
typically employ either optical or electrochemical sensors and, in some cases, also
use a chemical reagent.
Turbidity – Turbidity is the measure of cloudiness of the water resulting from
individual particles of solid matter suspended in the water. The individual particles
are generally undetectable by the human eye but collectively haze the clarity,
similar to the effect of smoke in air. Turbidity is typically measured using optical
sensors to detect the degree of scattering and absorption of light rays caused by
the suspended particles.
Other Common Targets
E. Coli – E. coli is a coliform associated with fecal contamination and produces
toxins that can result in a multitude of health-related problems. While traditional
methods of E. coli detection are relatively slow and insensitive, advances in
biosensors, optical sensors, and electrochemical methods have shown great
promise for quicker and more accurate detection.
Chlorine – Chlorine is used widely in municipal water systems and swimming pools
to deter microbial growth. While a small amount of chlorine can serve to disinfect,
a large concentration can lead to adverse effects. The World Health Organization
(WHO) suggests that a concentration of 2–3 mg/L of chlorine provides sufficient
disinfection properties, with the maximum allowable residual concentration being 5
mg/L. Concentrations above this limit have been show to lead to restlessness,
anxiety, coughing, and skin irritation. Historically, chlorine detection was
performed via colorimetry, the amperometric titration method (electrochemically),
and iodometry (chemically).
Fluoride – Fluoride is typically added to drinking water supplies to deter dental
caries. The WHO suggests that fluoride levels from 0.5 to 1.5 mg/L are acceptable.
Excessively high fluoride concentrations can lead to a disease called fluorosis, which
deteriorates bones and degrades enamel-forming cells of the teeth. Fluoride has


typically been detected colorimetrically/optically, as well as via electrochemical
sensors, such as ion-selective electrode sensors.
Nitrates and Nitrites – Nitrate contamination predominately results from runoff
from agricultural activity. The US EPA National Primary Drinking Water Standards
specify that the nitrate concentration not exceed 10 mg/L in public water supplies.
Due to its higher toxicity, nitrite is required not to exceed concentrations of 1.0
mg/L in public water supplies. Nitrates and nitrites can be detected
colorimetrically, electrochemically, as well as via chemical sensors.
Phosphates – Phosphates, like nitrates, largely come from agricultural runoff but
can also result from certain industrial effluents and household detergent waste.
Phosphate contamination can also be detected via colorimetric, electrochemical,
and chemical sensing methods. The recommend maximum concentration in rivers
and streams is 0.1 mg/L of total phosphate.
Heavy Metals – Common heavy metal targets include arsenic, mercury, copper,
zinc, lead, and cadmium. A variety of methods can be used for detecting heavy
metals, most of which involve an electrochemical-based sensing technology.


Current Technology and Prior Solution Attempts
Water Quality Measurement Methods and Applications

Analysis of water is generally performed via at least one of three methods, namely
laboratory analysis, in-line analysis, or portable analysis. Real-time analysis is a
fourth category that overlaps with in-line and portable analysis and is the ultimate
goal of this RFI. Each method is briefly discussed below, along with applications
typically employing such platforms.
Laboratory Analysis
Traditional lab-based methods include UV measurement, mass spectrometry, ion
sensitive electrodes, and amperometric (electrochemical) sensors. In such
analyses, samples are collected and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The
methodology of sample selection can significantly alter results. For instance, the
local environment of sample extraction and the length of time a sample sits before,
during, and after shipping can all give an inaccurate picture of the actual water
quality. Additionally, the simultaneous detection of various water parameters using
traditional methods is impractical and it remains a challenge for researchers to
develop novel multi-parameter methods to simultaneously detect these different
parameters to check overall quality of water supplies and effluents.
In-Line Analysis
In-line water analysis is primarily used in municipal water supplies or industrial
systems. In-line monitoring predominately uses fixed sensor technology that
provides ongoing measurement of select parameters, combined with periodic or
continuous water sampling. Data recording is often conducted manually for many
existing systems. However, with current threats to safe water supplies, most
municipalities have moved towards continuous real-time monitoring. Industrial
systems are primarily geared towards monitoring contaminants that interfere with
industrial processes, such as pH and excessive ion content, which can cause scaling
(mineral deposition), oxidative corrosion, and caustic corrosion in industrial boiler
systemsiii.
Portable, Remote, and Field Analysis
Portable, remote, or field-based analysis is used in environmental, personal
consumer, some agricultural settings, and in developing places with inadequate
municipal water supply or inadequate testing. This kind of testing can range from
paper test strips for swimming pool water, to personal or communal drinking water
testing, to expensive multi-parameter testing of natural water bodies or agricultural
water supplies.
In the case of environmental testing, groundwater and natural water bodies are
routinely monitored for contamination. While most existing testing relies on either
portable sensors or field-based sampling, there is an increased emphasis on remote
and/or real-time sensor networks that can provide data more quickly, to facilitate
quicker responses.


Agricultural agencies routinely monitor surface water for pesticide and fertilizer
contamination. Additionally, water supply to livestock and crops (hydroponics and
aeroponics) are often tested. Regular monitoring is also needed to maintain
aquatic environments in the farming of fish, shrimp, and other aquaculture
environments.
Real-Time Analysis
The ultimate goal in water quality monitoring is the development and adoption of
sensors and networks capable of real-time analysis. This of course overlaps with
in-line sensors and, to some extent, remote/field analysis. The overall concept is to
have a network of sensors spread across the area or flow path to be monitored,
with each sensor networked to a central data system. Each sensor would
constantly (or at high intervals) acquire data and transmit this data to the central
data system. This requires that sensor devices also possess transmission
capability, and, in some cases, onboard power. Although there are many clearly
understood motivations for such improvements, many challenges remain, including
the integration of multimode sensors into small platforms and the means to provide
remote power to the sensor.
One example of a real-time analysis network is the New Smart Water Assessment
Network (NUSwan) platform invented by the National University of Singapore,
which is particularly geared for monitoring water quality in urban areas. In this
system, robotic self-propelled watercrafts are disguised as swans and move
throughout the body of water, collecting data on a variety of water quality
parameters and continuously uploading that data to central depository system.
Each robotic swan possesses an array of multi-parameter sensors as well a GPS
receiver, so that a group of swans can be programmed to methodically move
around a given area, thus providing an improved overall picture of the water
qualityiv,v.
Figure 2: NUSwan (New Smart Water Assessment Network)
Source: National University of Singapore


Sensors for municipal and industrial water systems primarily employ in-line
stationary sensors or sampling laboratory analysis, since these technologies are
typically less costly. However, these existing methods of data collection are too
slow to develop operational responses; accordingly, efforts have focused on system
infrastructure for “real-time” analysis of water quality. This includes wireless
integration as well as multiple sensor modalities. Real-time water analysis can
provide timely feedback for early warning systems (EWS), which are critical in
cases of contamination of public water supplies as well as industrial processes
relying on specific water conditions.
Sensors and Sensor Technology
Sensor technologies can be characterized by their sensitivity, selectivity, and
response time. Traditional methods have offered better sensitivity and selectivity,
yet their cost, lack of portability, and lengthy time for providing results have
rendered them impractical for many applications. Trends have shifted towards
developing better quality sensors (i.e. with higher sensitivity and selectivity), which
are portable, easy to use, and economical to produce.
The traditional sensor classifications of optical, chemical, and electrical sensors are
often invalid given the advent of nanotechnology developments and desire for
multi-parameter testing. Currently, most sensing devices employ a battery of
sensors in an effort to gain improved sensitivity and screen multiple parameters
simultaneously. Basic sensor technologies have been developed from
nanotechnology and biotechnology, thereby leading to new sensing technologies,
many of which also draw from microfluidics, MEMS, and other advancements in
micro/nano-processing to fabricate new devices optimized for a variety of
applications.
The scope of this section is not to provide a comprehensive overview of sensing
technologies, but rather to provide a general overview along with some relevant
examples of recent developments in the field of water quality sensors. Below, the
most common technologies geared for use in portable water sensors devices are
discussed, along with noteworthy recent developments.
Optical Sensors
Optical sensing measures the change in spectroscopic properties of the sample due
to the interaction of water constituents. Optical measurements can use LEDs,
lasers, or other light sources, and may additionally involve the use of an active
indicator that changes properties depending upon the concentration of a specified
target. Detectors measure the reflectance, transmission, or phase shift of a sample
in reference to the light source. Optical sensing methods are suitable for the
detection of visibly detectable impurities or parameters that respond to changes in
light; these include dissolved oxygen, pH, turbidity, and residual chlorine.

Figure 3: Smartphone camera-based water quality analysis
Source: http://gsnetworks.org/blog/akvo-caddisfly-water-quality/
Optical sensors can be integrated into expensive laboratory devices, such as

UV/VIS or IR spectrometers or simple LEDs with photodetectors integrated into
handheld devices. Even cameras on smart phones can serve as an optical sensing
device for water quality. One example of this is HydroColor, which is an app that
estimates water quality parameters based on spectral reflectance data captured
through a smartphone cameravi. Other groups have used smart phone cameras (as
shown in Figure 3 above) in conjunction with activators or testing strips to classify
water quality parametersvii. Commercially available products and products currently
in development predominately use optical sensors in some fashion. This is
motivated by their ability to enable rapid sampling rates, relatively high selectivity,
low power consumption, few to no consumables, and longer-term deployment
capability.
Microelectronics Mechanical Systems (MEMS)
In the context of water quality sensing devices, micro-electro-mechanical systems
(MEMS) refer to devices that have the capability to sense and react to changes in
their environment and can be used to detect water level, pressure, flow rates, and
temperature. An abundance of MEMS-based devices have been proposed and
fabricated as sensors for use in water quality devices. Many metrology products
currently in the market employ sensing devices using MEMs for flow rate and
temperature sensing.
MEMS are often integrated with other technologies to create hybrid sensors capable
of multi-parameter sensing. One such is example is an optical MEMS sensor


created by Optiqua Technologies in Singapore. This sensor measures the
refractive index (RI)-induced phase difference of laser light. The device uses the
refractive index shift data to detect a broad variety of contaminants. Any
contaminant dissolved in water will change the RI of the matrix, and this change is
proportional to the concentration and the difference in RI values of the substance
and waterviii.
MEMS-based sensors have also been used to analyze heavy metal contamination in
water by creating a capacitive micro-cantilever device functionalized with various
proteins for specific selectivityix. There is a flurry of developmental research activity
with MEMS-based sensors in conjunction with optical-, biosensor-, and other
nanotechnology-enabled sensing capability.
BioSensors
Bio-based sensors have potential for assessing water quality parameters with high
sensitivity and specificity. A basic biosensor is comprised of a biologically active
indicator molecule, an interface, and a transducer to convert the signalx. Common
biological indicators include enzymes, antibodies, cell membrane receptors, and
microbial cells that interact with the target parameter(s). The transducer is
essentially an electrochemical, optical, or other sensor that translates the indicator
data into an electrical signal proportional to the target parameter. While biosensors
show great promise in selectivity, their implantation has been hindered due to
complex production, genetic evolution of indicators, and costxi.
Some examples of biosensors for water quality include electrochemical algae-
biosensorsxii,xiii, electrode monitoring of impedance for bacterial detection in
microfluidic channels, and microbial sensors integrated with microbial fuel cellsxiv.
While these and other biosensor-based technologies show great promise,
development is still in its infancy. In order for these technologies to be fully
realized for water quality monitoring, R&D efforts must focus on cost, testing
reliability in real environments, and improved response times.
Sensor Integration and Fabrication
Due to advances in sensor device configuration and fabrication, devices are
becoming increasingly amenable to micro- and nano-scale processing, such as
MEMs and patterning of microfluidic channels, for precise control of small volumes
of liquids. In general, there are not practical constraints on sample size of the
water to be tested; however, making devices sufficiently low cost for prolific sensor
network systems and affordable for developing areas is paramount.
The field of sensors is rapidly advancing as technologies converge to provide
increased sensitivity, selectivity, and rapid feedback. Furthermore, the demands of
real-time analysis are driving online network-based solutions that will require
improved system architectures and integration of communication technologies.


Invention Suggestions
All solutions must use the aforementioned µdispenser as part of any proposed
invention(s).
In addition to the µdispenser, solutions should ideally involve an optimization of
microfluidic structures in conjunction with various detection modalities (e.g. optical,
bio, and/or MEMS). Solutions should be capable of continuously or regularly
monitoring several constituents with a portable or in-line monitoring device.
For the consumer market, solutions that provide consumers with an inexpensive,
point-of-use water quality sensor that could integrate with in home filtration
systems are highly sought after. It may be desirable to test for parameters that
are potentially dangerous for human consumption or which can be easily removed
with in-home filtration systems. For example, while many inexpensive single-use
home testing kits for various parameters, such as E. coli, lead, pesticides,
nitrates/nitrites, chlorine, hardness, and pH, are currently available, real-time or
permanent testing fixtures are not readily available or are prohibitively expensive.
For the commercial and municipal markets, devices that improve testing speed,
expense, or accuracy for regulated contaminants are desired.
In-scope solution characteristics include the following:
 Continuous or high-interval monitoring capability;
 Testing units which are portable and reusable;
 Ability to test multiple parameters at a time;
 Cartridge-based testing that allows consumers to select specific testing
parameters;
 Integration with mobile devices or wireless connectivity;
 Consumer-based solutions (preferred); and
 Commercial and municipal solutions.
Out-of-scope solution characteristics are as follows:

 Single-use tests; and
 Solutions that do not use µdispensers.


Current Market Review
According to Lux Research, the total water analytics market was estimated at
US$2B and was growing at roughly 5% per year in 2015. According to one market
report on water quality sensors, analysts forecast the global water quality sensors
market to grow at a CAGR of 7.35% during the period from 2016-2020xv. Still
another analyst has the water analysis market reaching $3.6 billion by 2020xvi.
The water quality market is highly fragmented with a high degree of overlapping
segmentation. The table below provides the revenue share for water quality by type
of water analyzed. Geographic segmentation of the market would change this
dramatically in many cases. For instance, while most industrialized countries would
generally follow this revenue share trend, developing countries’ primary market is
in drinking water.
Ground water and surface 25.90%
water
Drinking water 22.80%
Waste water 20.53%
Aquaculture 16.81%
Coastal and estuarine 6.08%
Laboratory 3.84%
Others 4.04%
Figure 4: Global water quality sensors market by application, 2015 (% share of revenue)
Source: Lux Research
Geography
The US and Europe currently have the largest demand for water quality sensors.
Nevertheless, the Asia-Pacific region is forecast to emerge as the fastest growing
market, with a CAGR of 12.9% over the research periodxvii. Specifically, there is a
rapidly increasing demand for water sensing technologies in Chinaxviii. Ensuring
good quality drinking water in China has become increasingly challenging due to
industrially polluted water sources, outdated facilities, and insufficient water quality
monitoring. The figure below provides an overview of overall groundwater quality in
China.

Figure 5: Groundwater quality in China
Source: China Water Risk, MEP State of Environment Report
Of the many environmental sensing applications, water quality monitoring

commands the second largest share. Analysis by Technavio (below) reveals that
over 33% of the environmental sensing and monitoring market is for water. Many
companies developing and marketing sensors for water quality are active in other
monitoring segments.
Figure 6: Global environmental sensing and monitoring market segmentation, by applications (2019)
Source: Technavio
Market Drivers and Factors

Primary market drivers and factors include the following:


• Rapid industrialization and growing water needs of developing countries;
• Establishment of quality control measures and safety regulations for
municipal water supplies, environmental preservation, and industrial
processes;
• Transition of water analysis devices to real-time networked technology; and
• Advancements in sensor technologies.
Competitive Landscape
Products and Prototypes

The following section provides an overview of a few existing products and newly
developed products for water quality measurement, along with their basic operation
principles and capabilities.
Water Canary
The Water Canary is a water quality monitoring device that seeks to provide real-
time water contamination data. The device is designed to work as part of a
network of devices, with simultaneous real-time data collection. The device
employs optical sensors to perform spectral analysis of water samples and alerts
users through red and green LED indicators. The device is equipped with built-in
GPS and GSM, which is used to connect on an online data depository that maps and
distributes the information.
Figure 7: Water Canary

Source: www.watarcanary.com
Through the collection from multiple (hundreds, or even thousands, of) devices,
their aim is to empower municipal and relief workers on the ground with real-time
actionable data. This is turn can allow for containment and isolation of problem
areasxix.


Ecomo Smart Filter
Ecomo is a startup company which has developed two products in the water quality
sensing space. The first is the Ecomo smart filter, which integrates microfluidics
with LED indicators and a photovoltaic to create a self-powered water quality
sensing device that can be directly attached to most faucets. As water flows
through the device, sensors analyze for pH, bacteria, heavy metals, and other
parameters. Integrated LEDs provide a color-coded signal for instantaneous
feedback on water quality. The device is also integrated with an app that can
provide more detailed data on water quality and specific recommendations, such as
treatment protocols for optimal water quality from the analyzed sourcexx.
Figure 8: Ecomo smart filter

Source: www.ecomo.io
The second product developed by Ecomo is a water bottle incorporating both a

water quality sensor and a water filter which is changeable, such that the resulting
filtered water can be optimized based upon the analyzed contaminants. The sensor
is designed to detect total organic carbon (TOC), total dissolved solids (TDS),
turbidity, and temperature.

Figure 9: Ecomo Water Bottle senses quality and purifies water
Source: www.ecomo.io
MoboSens
MoboSens, created by Professor Logan Liu’s group at the University of Illinois, is a
mobile sensor platform for measuring various pollutants in waterxxi,xxii. The system
incorporates a nano-electronic sensor and a smartphone to analyze the sample. The
water quality information is then shared via cloud software technology for crowd-
sensing aggregation and analysis. The system currently focuses on detection of
nitrates, but MoboSens has plans to expand to measure heavy metals (e.g. arsenic,
chromium, lead), carcinogens, pathogens, and bacteria in water. The MoboSens is
not yet commercially available, but money is actively being raised for a product
launch via an Indiegogo campaign.
(https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/mobosens-a-water-pollution-sensor-for-your-
smartphone#/)
Akvo Caddisfly
Another development from Carnegie Mellon researchers is Akvo Caddisfly, which
promises fast and easy drinking water fluoride testing via smartphone. Marketed
as a portable and low cost drinking water testing kit, it is used in conjunction with a
smartphone app to quickly analyze contaminant levels in water. Both the hardware
and software are open source, and the system aims to share water quality data
online to a common depository for establishing a geographic footprint of water
quality. While their initial focus is on fluorine detection, development is underway
for other parameters.

Figure 10: Akvo-Caddisfly water quality sensor system
Source: www.akvo.org
Waterbot and CATTFish

Carnegie Mellon University’s CREATE Lab has also developed two other water
quality testing devices, called the Waterbot and CATTFishxxiii. The Waterbot is
intended for environmental monitoring and can be deployed in the field for up to
12-months. The device continually collects data and uploads to the web via a
Zigbee module for information dissemination.
The CATTFish is a device that is designed to monitor the quality of well-waterxxiv.
The device sits inside a toilet tank and measures the temperature and conductance
of the incoming water filling the tank using temperature and conductance to derive
TDS and an overall quality of the water. Such information is of particular interest
to residents using well water that they suspect may be contaminated from
industrial or agricultural effluents. (https://www.cattfish.com/)
SAM-1: (Smart Aqua Meter)
The SAM-1 is a multi-parameter water meter measuring pH, ORP (oxidation
reduction potential), and conductivity. The meter integrates with smartphones or
tablets via the audio jack and as an accompanying app for use on Apple or Android
devices. Recorded measurements include GPS location, time, and date, as well as
additional customizable user fields. Measurements can be uploaded to a central
data depositary or shared via email through normal smartphone email functions.
The SAM-1 is commercially available for $150-$500, depending on options and
functionality.

Figure 11: Sensorex SAM-1 multi-parameter water sensor
Source: www.sensorex.com
Many existing products have been developed to test for pH, ORP conductivity, and
temperature. This is a commodity market, with product variations generally coming
from leading companies in the space (e.g. Oakton, Hach, Hanna, Milwaukee
Instruments, Thermo-Fisher, Dwyer, Yokogawa, Extech, Horbia etc.).
In-Situ smarTROLL
The smarTROLL from In-Situ Inc. is a multi-parameter portable system providing
data collection on more than a dozen water quality parameters, including
conductivity, pH, ORP, dissolved oxygen, water level/pressure, salinity, total
dissolved solids, resistivity, density, air and water temperature, and barometric
pressure. The sensors are Wi-Fi enabled and send the data directly to smartphones
or tablets. (https://in-situ.com/products/water-quality-testing-
equipment/smartroll-multiparameter-handheld/)

Figure 12: In-Situ smarTROLL water quality analysis system
Source: www.in-situ.com
Competitors
There are many competitors in the water quality sensor space, which can be divided
into three markets, namely sensor technology, sensor integrators, and end
products. Even within these divisions, there is a high degree of overlap and/or
vertical integration.
Established companies selling pH/ORP, conductivity, and temperature meters
include the following:
• Oakton (Australia)
• Myron L. Meters (USA)
• Thermo Fisher Scientific (USA)
• YSI (USA)
• Atlas Scientific (USA)
• Hach Instruments (USA)
• Hannah Instruments (U.K.)
• HORBIA (Japan)
• Libelium (Spain)
• In-Situ Inc. (USA)
• Milwaukee Instruments (USA)
• Dwyer (USA)


• Yokogawa (Japan)
• Extech (USA)
Startup Activity
Within the water industry, 25% of start-up activity is focused on analytical
technologies, as shown below. This includes sensor technologies as well as system
integration and infrastructure technologies.
Figure 13: Startup activity in the water industry
Source: Lux Research
Notable startups include the following companies:

• Optiqua Technologies (http://www.optiqua.com/) - Singapore and the
Netherlands
• SBT Aqua (https://sbtaqua.com/) - Denmark
• Proteus Sensor (http://www.proteus-sensor.eu/)
• Water Canary (http://www.watercanary.com/)
• Ecomo (http://www.ecomo.io/)
• Libelum (http://www.libelium.com/)
• OptiEnz Sensors (http://optienz.com/)


References
i Monitoring Pollutants in Wastewater: Traditional Lab Based versus Modern Real-Time Approaches, in
“Smart Sensors for Real-Tie Water Quality Monitoring” O. Korostynska, A. Mason*, and Al. Al-Shamma’a
(Eds.).
ii https://www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/drinking-water-regulatory-information
iii http://www.sensorex.com/boiler-water-treatment/
iv http://www.postscapes.com/robotic-water-sensors-nuswan/
v http://arl.nus.edu.sg/twiki6/pub/Discussions/Topic0456/NUSwanPUB.pdf
vi https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/hydrocolor-water-quality-app/id816427169?mt=8
vii http://gsnetworks.org/blog/akvo-caddisfly-water-quality/
viii “Innovative sensor technology for effective online water quality monitoring”,
http://www.optiqua.com/pdf/fullpapersiww_iwa6376_innovative%20sensor%20technology.pdf
ix Dinesh Rotake, A. D. Darji. “Heavy metal ion detection in water using MEMS based sensor”,
International Conference on Processing of Materials, Minerals and Energy (July 29th –30th), 2016.
x D. Barceló with S. Rodriguez-Mozaz, Maria J. Lopez de Alda, “Biosensors as useful tools for
environmental analysis and monitoring”, Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry,386:1025-1041, 2006.

xi P. Leonard, S. Hearty, J. Brennan, L. Dunne, J. Quinn, T. Chakraborty, and R. O’Kennedy, “Advances
in biosensors for detection of pathogens in food and water”, Enzyme and Microbial Technology, 32:3-13,
2003.
xii Alexander, Frank; Umar, Lazuardi; Wiest Joachim. “Application of algae-biosensor for environmental
monitoring”, Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC), 2015 37th Annual International
Conference of the IEEE.
xiii https://sbtaqua.com/technology/
xiv Chouler, Jon; Lorenzo, Mirella. “Water Quality Monitoring in Developing Countries; Can Microbial Fuel
Cells be the Answer?” Biosensors, 5: 450-470, 2015.

xv http://www.reportsnreports.com/reports/671432-global-water-quality-sensors-market-2016-2020.html.
xvi http://www.strategyr.com/MarketResearch/Water_Analysis_Instrumentation_Market_Trends.asp
xvii http://www.wwdmag.com/trends-forecasts/water-instrumentation-market-reach-36-billion-2020
xviii http://chinawaterrisk.org/big-picture/
xix http://www.postscapes.com/wireless-water-quality-sensing-watercanary/
xx http://www.postscapes.com/smart-water-quality-sensor-a-filter-ecomo/
xxi http://nanobionics.mntl.illinois.edu/mobosens/
xxii http://engineering.illinois.edu/news/article/2013-04-22-lius-mobosens-team-creates-award-winning-
mobile-phone-water-sensor
xxiii http://www.treehugger.com/gadgets/airbot-and-waterbot-are-portable-air-and-water-pollution-
detectors.html
xxiv http://www.andrew.cmu.edu/user/schapiro/cmu/cattfish.html

Awards for Selected Solutions
We will conduct a global review of your invention using a team of experts who will
examine the technology, potential products, markets, future customers and existing
landscape.
We will select the best proposed solutions gathered during the circulation period of
this RFI.
We will pay any awards in installments, as per your written and executed contract
with us.


Notices
Please contact:
Xinova, LLC
701 Fifth Avenue, Suite 4100
Seattle, WA 98104 USA
Xinova Asia Pte. Ltd.
150 Beach Road, # 08-06/08, Gateway West
Singapore 189720
Copyright 2017. All rights reserved.
Any distribution of this document is strictly prohibited.
This document is the proprietary and confidential information of Xinova and any
affiliate thereof.
Inquiries:
David Kraft
dkraft@xinova.com
RFI template version: 5.00


Instructions for Submission
Please read carefully before submitting Solution Reports
1. Terms and conditions of this RFI apply to anyone submitting proposed

solutions.
2. We accept only original, new and novel proposed solutions. Proposed

solutions not satisfying these requirements will not be considered.
3. Please direct any questions you may have to your local Xinova office.
Suggestions to refine, broaden or to include new information are welcome.
Any suggestions you provide are given entirely voluntarily and shall not
create any confidentiality obligation for us. We may use the suggestions
without obligation or restriction of any kind.
4. You may submit one or more Solution Reports during the circulation period of
this RFI. Please see the first page for the circulation period. We will not
accept any proposed solutions after the RFI Closing Date.
5. Please contact your local Xinova office for the Solution Report form. Please
fill out the form accurately and completely. Incomplete forms may be
returned to you for further action and may not be considered for acceptance.
6. Each proposed solution should be embodied in one Solution Report form. Do

not include multiple proposed solutions in one form.
7. We reserve the right to cancel or terminate this RFI at any time.
8. We may share information on select proposed solutions and/or provide

feedback to some or all of the inventors who submitted Solution Reports in
response to this RFI. All information shared and/or feedback provided is our
confidential information.
9. We will not retain any rights or obligations with respect to declined proposed
solutions.

Water Quality Sensors

Загружено:

Сведения о документе

Авторское право

Доступные форматы

Поделиться этим документом

Поделиться или встроить документ

Параметры публикации

Этот документ был вам полезен?

Это неприемлемый материал?

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Water Quality Sensors

Загружено:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Xinova is looking for your inventions

REQUEST FOR INVENTION (RFI)

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Photo source: iStock

Circulation Date: Request for Invention

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Xinova seeks the disclosure of inventions for low-cost water quality

Desired invention characteristics and some suggested areas of exploration

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 2

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 3

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Approximately 3 billion people in developing nations do not have adequate, safe

Specifically, the μdispenser is heated by resistive (i.e. joule) heating, wherein a

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 4

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 5

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 6

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 7

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Water Quality Measurement Methods and Applications

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 8

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Figure 2: NUSwan (New Smart Water Assessment Network)

Source: National University of Singapore

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 9

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 10

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Figure 3: Smartphone camera-based water quality analysis

Optical sensors can be integrated into expensive laboratory devices, such as

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 11

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 12

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Out-of-scope solution characteristics are as follows:

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 13

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 14

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Figure 5: Groundwater quality in China

Source: China Water Risk, MEP State of Environment Report

Of the many environmental sensing applications, water quality monitoring

Market Drivers and Factors

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 15

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Products and Prototypes

Figure 7: Water Canary

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 16

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Figure 8: Ecomo smart filter

The second product developed by Ecomo is a water bottle incorporating both a

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 17

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Figure 9: Ecomo Water Bottle senses quality and purifies water

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 18

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors

Figure 10: Akvo-Caddisfly water quality sensor system

Waterbot and CATTFish

Xinova PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 19

Microfluidic Water Quality Sensors