ASTACUS TECHNOLOGY
Astacus Technology (Drinking Water) is a rapidly deployable solution for the efficient cleaning and decontamination of public water supply pipelines while the distribution system remains fully operational, without interrupting water delivery to consumers. At the same time, it enables the measurement of network operating parameters, automated fire hydrant testing, and automated processing of test results.
Compared with conventional methods, the technology reduces flushing water consumption by up to 70%, minimizes hydraulic shocks in pipelines, and improves drinking water quality in public water supply systems. It represents an effective tool for the rapid restoration of water mains, for example following the intrusion of contaminants into the network or during turbidity events.
The technology has been implemented, is fully operational, and has been used commercially for several years by water utilities in the Czech Republic and abroad.
The invention is protected by European Patent No. EP4039893B1, Method for Safe Flushing of Pipes of Water Supply Network and Mobile Device for Safe Flushing of Pipes of Water Supply Network, as well as by Czech Patents No. 309183 and No. 308414.
Authors: Jan Ručka, Martina Rajnochová, Tomáš Sucháček
Department of Municipal Water Management, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Brno University of Technology
(www.vodabrno.cz)
INTELLIGENT PRESSURE SEWER SYSTEM WITH PREDICTIVE CONTROL
Intelligent Pressure Sewer System with Predictive Control (Wastewater) is an advanced management system for pressure sewer networks based on data analytics, automation, and remote monitoring. The system continuously evaluates the condition of the sewer network, data from individual pumping stations, historical operating records, and meteorological information, and automatically schedules pump operation to achieve an optimal hydraulic regime with regard to pipeline flushing and wastewater treatment plant loading.
The result is a self-optimizing pressure sewer system with improved operational reliability, reduced need for operator intervention, and enhanced protection against pipe blockages and sediment accumulation.
The technology is protected by European Patent No. EP3263786B1, Pressure Sewer System and Method Therefor, as well as by Czech Patent No. 306856.
Authors: Jan Ručka, Ondřej Andrš, Jiří Kovář
Faculty of Civil Engineering, Brno University of Technology, and Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Brno University of Technology.
SUBSTRATE FOR GREEN WALLS AND FACADES INCORPORATING BIO-BASED MATERIALS
Substrate for Green Walls and Facades Incorporating Bio-Based Materials is an innovative growing medium developed specifically for vertical gardens, green walls, and building facades. It utilizes an advanced material containing bio-based components, which ensures optimal moisture retention and a stable supply of nutrients for vegetation.
Its environmentally friendly composition supports healthy plant growth while contributing to improved microclimatic conditions and enhanced sustainability in urban environments.
The invention is protected by Utility Model No. 37885.
Authors: Tomáš Chorazy, Hana Raclavská, Dana Juchelková, Martin Rozkošný.
REAL-TIME MONITORING SYSTEM FOR WASTEWATER LEAKAGE FROM DOUBLE-WALL SEWER PIPELINES
Real-Time Monitoring System for Wastewater Leakage from Double-Wall Sewer Pipelines is designed for comprehensive monitoring of wastewater leakage. The system enables the detection of wastewater escaping from the outer wall of the sewer pipe into the surrounding ground, leakage from the inner pipe into the annular space between the two walls, and damage to the double-wall pipeline caused by human activities, particularly during excavation works.
Leak detection is based on temperature measurements using fiber-optic cables and the principle of Raman scattering of light. The system employs a specific arrangement of fiber-optic cables installed parallel to the sewer pipes and connected to an evaluation unit, enabling continuous real-time monitoring and analysis.
The invention is protected by Czech Patent No. 309382, Real-Time Monitoring System for Wastewater Leakage from Double-Wall Sewer Pipelines.
Authors: Tomáš Chorazy, Petr Hlavínek, Tomáš Macsek, Pavel Münster, Jiří Tomšů, in cooperation with SATTURN HOLEŠOV spol. s r.o., Dlažánky 305/16, 769 01 Holešov, Czech Republic, and Brno University of Technology, Antonínská 548/1, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic.