Rubicon Research Pty Ltd.

Australia

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IPC Class
E02B 13/02 - Closures for irrigation conduits 13
A01G 25/16 - Control of watering 11
G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters 11
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09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments 11
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1.

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR CLASSIFYING AND BENCHMARKING IRRIGATION PERFORMANCE

      
Application Number 18719543
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-12-14
First Publication Date 2025-02-13
Owner
  • Rubicon Research Pty Ltd (Australia)
  • The University of Melbourne (Australia)
Inventor
  • Gao, Zitian
  • Guo, Danlu
  • Western, Andrew William
  • Ryu, Dongryeol
  • Aughton, David John

Abstract

An automated method of classifying irrigation status of fields within a geographical region includes identifying a plurality of field areas delineated by field boundaries within the geographical region. Seasonal normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) time series data are processed to generate a plurality of aggregate field NDVI feature values for each identified field area. Irrigation status of each identified field area is classified by executing a decision tree classifier that is configured to determine a classification as either ‘irrigated’ or ‘non-irrigated’ based upon the corresponding plurality of aggregate field NDVI feature values.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06V 20/10 - Terrestrial scenes
  • G06T 3/40 - Scaling of whole images or parts thereof, e.g. expanding or contracting
  • G06T 7/13 - Edge detection
  • G06V 10/762 - Arrangements for image or video recognition or understanding using pattern recognition or machine learning using clustering, e.g. of similar faces in social networks
  • G06V 10/764 - Arrangements for image or video recognition or understanding using pattern recognition or machine learning using classification, e.g. of video objects

2.

ACTUATION AND VALVE MECHANISM

      
Application Number 18468991
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-18
First Publication Date 2024-01-04
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd. (Australia)
Inventor Aughton, David John

Abstract

A cable drive device including an arcuate segment drive member and a cable drum having an axle to allow rotation of the cable drum. The cable drum has a cable affixed at either end of the arcuate section of the arcuate segment drive member and tautly wrapped around the cable drum. The cable drum is located between the ends of the arcuate section of the arcuate segment drive member to, in use, allow the arcuate segment drive member to be moved when the axle is rotated. The cable is located in a groove in the arcuate section and a part of the cable drum extends into the groove, and the cable drum and the arcuate segment drive member simulate a rack and pinion drive.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E02B 13/02 - Closures for irrigation conduits
  • F16K 31/50 - Mechanical actuating means with screw-spindle
  • F16L 55/10 - Means for stopping flow in pipes or hoses

3.

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR CLASSIFYING AND BENCHMARKING IRRIGATION PERFORMANCE

      
Application Number AU2022051505
Publication Number 2023/108213
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-12-14
Publication Date 2023-06-22
Owner
  • RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
  • THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE (Australia)
Inventor
  • Gao, Zitian
  • Guo, Danlu
  • Western, Andrew, William
  • Ryu, Dongryeol
  • Aughton, David, John

Abstract

An automated method of classifying irrigation status of fields within a geographical region comprises identifying a plurality of field areas (500) delineated by field boundaries within the geographical region. Seasonal normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) time series data (604) are processed (612) to generate a plurality of aggregate field NDVI feature values for each identified field area. Irrigation status of each identified field area is classified (620) by executing a decision tree classifier that is configured to determine a classification as either 'irrigated' or 'non-irrigated' based upon the corresponding plurality of aggregate field NDVI feature values.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06V 20/10 - Terrestrial scenes
  • A01G 25/16 - Control of watering
  • G06Q 50/02 - AgricultureFishingForestryMining
  • G06T 7/12 - Edge-based segmentation
  • G06V 10/26 - Segmentation of patterns in the image fieldCutting or merging of image elements to establish the pattern region, e.g. clustering-based techniquesDetection of occlusion

4.

NEUROFLO

      
Serial Number 98010118
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-05-23
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd (Australia)
NICE Classes  ?
  • 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
  • 42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design

Goods & Services

Measuring, signalling and supervision equipment, namely, electronic water flow meters, electronic soil moisture sensors, electronic temperature sensors, electronic humidity sensors, electronic rainfall sensors, electronic wind speed and direction sensors, wireless transmitters and receivers, electronic water level sensors and indicators, mobile data transmitters and receivers, and electronic global positioning system receivers; measuring, signalling and supervision equipment for management of water flows and level comprised of electronic controls for motors and valves and downloadable computer software used for managing and remotely monitoring water flows and levels in pipes, channels and aqueducts; control and data acquisition systems for remotely monitoring and controlling equipment in the field comprised of electronic water flow meters, electric soil moisture sensors, electronic temperature sensors, electronic humidity sensors, electronic rainfall sensors, electronic wind speed and direction sensors, and electronic water level sensors and indicators; weather stations consisting of a housing containing meteorological instruments, solar power units comprised of solar panels for the production of electricity, electronic data logger, and measuring, signalling and supervision equipment, namely, electronic water flow meters, electronic soil moisture sensors, electronic temperature sensors, electronic humidity sensors, electronic rainfall sensors, electronic wind speed and direction sensors, wireless transmitters and receivers, electronic water level sensors and indicators, mobile data transmitters and receivers, and electronic global positioning system receivers; actinometers, namely, pyranometers; meteorological instruments; solar powered devices, namely, control valves for regulating the flow of gases and liquids, electronic water flow meters, electronic soil moisture sensors, electronic temperature sensors, electronic humidity sensors, electronic rainfall sensors, electronic wind speed and direction sensors, wireless transmitters and receivers, electronic water level sensors and indicators, mobile data transmitters and receivers, and electronic global positioning system receivers; camera systems featuring a thermal imaging camera and visual imaging camera and electronic global positioning system receivers; downloadable computer software, namely, computer software for scheduling customer orders; downloadable computer software for connecting to communications networks; downloadable computer software for lodgement and modification of orders; downloadable computer software for use by operators for managing irrigation water deliveries; downloadable computer software for database management; downloadable computer software for irrigation modelling, namely, software for modelling the behaviour of water in irrigation distribution networks; scientific instrumentation for measuring and monitoring water flow and water levels; flow meters; electronic testing equipment, namely, water meters for measuring and monitoring water flows and levels; electronic interfaces for connecting to telemetry networks and transmitting data used in managing water flows and level, namely, computer keyboards, electric control panels, touchscreens, computer monitors, and handheld electronic controllers for electrotechnical and electronic devices; computer hardware; computer networking hardware; electronic rain gauges; automatic electronic machine controllers and electronic timers for irrigation systems; thermal imaging cameras; electronic cameras Civil engineering consultancy related to irrigation; mechanical engineering consultancy related to irrigation; computer software design and computer programming, namely, computer software design and computer programming in respect of water supply, water monitoring and water management; Technical quality monitoring services of water supply conditions, namely, monitoring of water flow volume, measurement of water flow, and the monitoring and measuring of water supply levels; design and development of computer hardware and software for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; software as a service (SaaS) services featuring software for the design, operation and management of irrigation systems and the scheduling and application of water to crops; software as a service (SaaS) services, namely, hosting software for use by others for the design, operation and management of irrigation systems and the scheduling and application of water to crops; testing and inspection services of irrigation systems; computer analysis, namely, computer systems analysis for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; computer programming for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; computer software design for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; computer software development for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; computer software engineering for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; programming of computer software for others for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; design and development of computer software for others for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; design of telecommunications apparatus and equipment; design and development of wireless computer networks for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; design of computer systems for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; design of computer systems for the processing of data for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; design of computer systems for the storage of data for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; design of computer systems for the transmission of data for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; maintenance of computer programs for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; maintenance of computer software for use in the field of irrigation and water supply management; providing temporary use of online non-downloadable software for use in database management in the field of water management in supply

5.

Overshot and undershot control gate

      
Application Number 17769191
Grant Number 12084826
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-10-15
First Publication Date 2023-01-26
Grant Date 2024-09-10
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Delacorn, Joel Michael
  • Crozier, Jonathan Ross
  • Yarygin, Eugene

Abstract

A control gate for a channel or pond adapted to be installed across a channel for liquids. The control gate includes: at least two panels hingedly connected together, the panels having opposing sides in sealing engagement with side walls of the channel, a lowermost panel being in sealing engagement with the floor of the channel. The panels are substantially vertically aligned in a fully closed position of the control gate. At least one first lifting element is connected to the top of an uppermost panel and is adapted to lower and raise the uppermost panel relative to its hinged connection in a concertina manner to provide an overshot position for the control gate. At least one second lifting element is connected to the bottom of the lowermost panel to raise and lower the lowermost panel from the floor of the channel to provide an undershot position for the control gate.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E02B 7/20 - Movable barragesLock gates
  • E02B 7/28 - Vertical-lift gates with sliding gates
  • E02B 7/30 - Vertical-lift gates with guide wheels or rollers for the gates
  • E02B 7/36 - Elevating mechanisms for vertical-lift gates
  • E02B 7/54 - Sealings for gates
  • E02B 8/00 - Details of barrages or weirs
  • G01N 35/00 - Automatic analysis not limited to methods or materials provided for in any single one of groups Handling materials therefor

6.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING SURFACE LEVEL AND SOIL INFILTRATION UNDER IRRIGATION

      
Application Number 17638054
Status Pending
Filing Date 2020-08-28
First Publication Date 2022-09-01
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Delacorn, Joel Michael

Abstract

A device to determine a surface level of an area subject to flood, furrow, border-check or surface irrigation. The device includes an open-ended tube partially insertable into a hole in the soil to be irrigated. The tube has a plurality of perforations along its length and periphery to allow water entering perforations from above ground level to fill the tube. A housing is secured to the other end the of tube and contains a programmable ultrasonic transducer for transmitting and receiving acoustic signals from the water level within the tube. The housing has electronic circuitry and wireless communication elements to control the programmable ultrasonic transducer. The surface level and depth of water flowing along the surface level can be determined by monitoring a change point at which increases in monitored water levels slow, after a rapid increase of the monitored water levels, and by the difference in monitored water levels.

IPC Classes  ?

7.

Multi pulley control gate

      
Application Number 17630337
Grant Number 11913185
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-07-21
First Publication Date 2022-08-25
Grant Date 2024-02-27
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Delacorn, Joel Michael

Abstract

A control gate adapted to be installed across a channel for liquids. The control gate includes a barrier member with a side member that has a circular arcuate section, the barrier member being pivotally mounted at or adjacent to the base of the channel; and a drive for raising and lowering the barrier member. The drive includes a cable, motor and first and second pulleys. The first pulley is coupled to the motor, the cable is secured to opposite first and second ends of the arcuate section, with the second pulley being adjacent to the arcuate section. The cable passes along the arcuate section from the one end to pass under the second pulley in contact therewith, is looped around the first pulley, above the second pulley, then passes under the second pulley and is secured to the second end of the arcuate section.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E02B 7/40 - Swinging or turning gates
  • E02B 13/02 - Closures for irrigation conduits
  • E02B 7/42 - Gates of segmental or sector-like shape with horizontal axis
  • G05D 9/12 - Level control, e.g. controlling quantity of material stored in vessel characterised by the use of electric means

8.

REFILL POINT OR TARGET DEFICIT FOR CROP IRRIGATION

      
Application Number AU2021050996
Publication Number 2022/040756
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-08-27
Publication Date 2022-03-03
Owner
  • RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
  • THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David, John
  • Western, Andrew, William
  • Ryu, Dongryeol
  • Guo, Danlu
  • Parehkar, Arash

Abstract

The invention provides a method of ascertaining the refill point or target deficit (234) to determine the need to irrigate a crop (236) using a computer-based system. The method including the steps of monitoring soil moisture directly (242), and/or indirectly (238), of the crop using field measurements to compute a soil moisture deficit (230), monitoring the thermal activity of leaf temperature of at least one plant of the crop allowing determination of crop water stress index (232), and interacting the results of said soil moisture deficit (230) and said thermal activity monitoring (232) to derive said refill point or target deficit (230).

IPC Classes  ?

  • A01G 25/16 - Control of watering
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
  • G01N 21/84 - Systems specially adapted for particular applications
  • G01N 19/10 - Measuring moisture content, e.g. by measuring change in length of hygroscopic filamentHygrometers

9.

Actuation and valve mechanism

      
Application Number 17403217
Grant Number 11859359
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-08-16
First Publication Date 2021-12-02
Grant Date 2024-01-02
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd. (Australia)
Inventor Aughton, David John

Abstract

An arrangement for controlling and measuring flow. The arrangement includes a fluid control barrier and a flow-measuring apparatus upstream of the fluid control barrier. The fluid control barrier includes a pair of plates for opening and closing a pipe, and the plates are movable towards a center line of the pipe to open the pipe and produce a symmetrical flow profile for the flow-measuring apparatus.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E02B 13/02 - Closures for irrigation conduits
  • F16L 55/10 - Means for stopping flow in pipes or hoses
  • F16K 31/50 - Mechanical actuating means with screw-spindle

10.

AGPOD

      
Application Number 018563828
Status Registered
Filing Date 2021-09-21
Registration Date 2022-01-26
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd (Australia)
NICE Classes  ?
  • 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
  • 42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design

Goods & Services

Control valves, namely, manually operated metal valves for controlling the flow of liquids; Measuring, signalling and supervision equipment, namely, electronic water flow meters, electronic soil moisture sensors, electronic temperature sensors, electronic humidity sensors, electronic rainfall sensors, electronic wind speed and direction sensors, wireless transmitters and receivers, electronic water level sensors and indicators, mobile data transmitters and receivers, and electronic global positioning system receivers; measuring, signalling and supervision equipment for management of water flows and level comprised of electronic controls and computer software used for managing and remotely monitoring water flows and levels in pipes, channels and aqueducts; control and data acquisition systems for remotely monitoring and controlling equipment in the field comprised of electronic water level sensors and indicators, weather stations, pyranometers, metrological instruments, solar powered devices included in this class, camera systems having thermal imaging and visual imaging and electronic global positioning system receivers; control and data acquisition systems for remotely monitoring and controlling equipment in the field comprised of electronic water flow meters, electric soil moisture sensors, electronic temperature sensors, electronic humidity sensors, electronic rainfall sensors, electronic wind speed and direction sensors; computer software, namely, computer software for scheduling customer orders, computer software for connecting to communications networks, computer software for lodgement and modification of orders, computer software for use by operators in the supervision and management of irrigation water deliveries, computer software for database management and computer software for irrigation modelling namely software for modelling the behaviour of water in irrigation distribution networks; scientific instrumentation for measuring and monitoring water flow and water levels; flow meters; electronic testing equipment, namely, meters for measuring and monitoring water flows and levels; electronic interfaces for connecting to telemetry networks and transmitting data used in managing water flows and level, namely, interfaces for electronic communication devices; computer hardware; computer networking hardware; electronic rain gauges; automatic controllers and timers for irrigation systems; thermal imaging cameras; electronic cameras. Civil engineering related to irrigation; mechanical engineering related to irrigation; computer software design and computer programming, including computer software design and computer programming in respect of water supply, water monitoring and water management; Technological monitoring services for conditions of water supply, namely, monitoring of water flow volume, measurement of water flow, the monitoring and measuring of water supply levels; design and development of computer hardware and software; software as a service (SaaS), namely, software for the design, operation and management of irrigation systems and the scheduling and application of water to crops; software as a service (SaaS), namely, hosting software for use by others for the design, operation and management of irrigation systems and the scheduling and application of water to crops; commissioning, testing and inspection services in relation to irrigation systems; computer analysis, namely, computer systems analysis; computer programming; computer software design; computer software development; computer software engineering; programming of computer software for others; design and development of computer software for others; design of telecommunications apparatus and equipment; design and development of wireless computer networks; design of computer systems; design of computer systems for the processing of data; design of computer systems for the storage of data; design of computer systems for the transmission of data; installation, updating and maintenance of firmware; maintenance of computer programs; maintenance of computer software; provision of online non-downloadable software for use in database management in the field of water management in supply.

11.

AGPOD

      
Serial Number 97024821
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-09-13
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd (Australia)
NICE Classes  ?
  • 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
  • 42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design

Goods & Services

Measuring, signalling and supervision equipment, namely, electronic water flow meters, electronic soil moisture sensors, electronic temperature sensors, electronic humidity sensors, electronic rainfall sensors, electronic wind speed and direction sensors, wireless transmitters and receivers, electronic water level sensors and indicators, mobile data transmitters and receivers, and electronic global positioning system receivers; measuring, signalling and supervision equipment for management of water flows and level comprised of electronic controls for motors and valves and downloadable computer software used for managing and remotely monitoring water flows and levels in pipes, channels and aqueducts; control and data acquisition systems for remotely monitoring and controlling equipment in the field comprised of electronic water flow meters, electric soil moisture sensors, electronic temperature sensors, electronic humidity sensors, electronic rainfall sensors, electronic wind speed and direction sensors, electronic water level sensors and indicators, weather stations consisting of a housing containing meteorological instruments, solar power source, data logger, and measuring, signalling and supervision equipment, namely, electronic water flow meters, electronic soil moisture sensors, electronic temperature sensors, electronic humidity sensors, electronic rainfall sensors, electronic wind speed and direction sensors, wireless transmitters and receivers, electronic water level sensors and indicators, mobile data transmitters and receivers, and electronic global positioning system receivers, pyranometers, meteorological instruments, electronic water flow meters, electronic soil moisture sensors, electronic temperature sensors, electronic humidity sensors, electronic rainfall sensors, electronic wind speed and direction sensors, wireless transmitters and receivers, electronic water level sensors and indicators, mobile data transmitters and receivers, and electronic global positioning system (GPS) receivers; Camera systems featuring a thermal image camera and visual image camera and electronic global positioning system receivers; downloadable computer software, namely, computer software for scheduling customer orders, downloadable computer software for connecting to communications networks, downloadable computer software for logging and modification of orders, downloadable computer software for managing irrigation water deliveries, downloadable computer software for database management and downloadable computer software for irrigation modelling, namely, software for modelling the behaviour of water in irrigation distribution networks; scientific instrumentation for measuring and monitoring water flow and water levels; flow meters; electronic testing equipment, namely, meters for measuring and monitoring water flows and levels; electronic interfaces for connecting to telemetry networks and transmitting data used in managing water flows and level, namely, keyboards, electric control panels, touchscreens, computers, and handheld controllers for electrotechnical and electronic devices, namely computer mice and compute joystick peripherals; computer hardware; computer networking hardware; electronic rain gauges; automatic electronic machine controllers for controlling servo motors and timers for irrigation systems; thermal imaging cameras; electronic cameras Civil engineering related to irrigation; mechanical engineering related to irrigation; computer software design and computer programming, including computer software design and computer programming in respect of water supply, water monitoring and water management; Technological monitoring services for conditions of water supply, namely, monitoring of water flow volume, measurement of water flow, the monitoring and measuring of water supply levels; design and development of computer hardware and software; software as a service (SaaS), namely, software for the design, operation and management of irrigation systems and the scheduling and application of water to crops; software as a service (SaaS), namely, hosting software for use by others for the design, operation and management of irrigation systems and the scheduling and application of water to crops; testing and inspection services in relation to irrigation systems; computer analysis, namely, computer systems analysis; computer programming; computer software design; computer software development; computer software engineering; programming of computer software for others; design and development of computer software for others; design of telecommunications apparatus and equipment; design and development of wireless computer networks; design of computer systems; design of computer systems for the processing of data; design of computer systems for the storage of data; design of computer systems for the transmission of data; maintenance of computer programs; maintenance of computer software; provision of online non-downloadable software for use in database management in the field of water management in supply

12.

Method and system for water distribution and soil moisture determination

      
Application Number 16639418
Grant Number 11297785
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-08-14
First Publication Date 2021-05-06
Grant Date 2022-04-12
Owner
  • RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
  • THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Choy, Sumith
  • Mareels, Iven Michiel Yvonne
  • Ryu, Dongryeol
  • Western, Andrew

Abstract

A method of spatially deriving soil moisture at a selected location within an irrigation district to be irrigated. The method includes using system identification techniques to produce an algorithm for evapotranspiration based on a predetermined selection from the following measured parameters: solar radiation spectrum, wind speed, temperature, humidity, crop factor, soil type, barometric pressure, irrigation historical data, and energy measurement from solar panels at each of a plurality of representative locations; calibrating the algorithm by direct measurement of the moisture in the soil at each of the representative locations by respective soil moisture sensors; and using measured parameters of rainfall, soil type, irrigation historical data and crop factor with the algorithm to derive or interpolate soil moisture at the selected location within the irrigation district.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A01G 25/16 - Control of watering
  • G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
  • G01N 27/04 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of electric, electrochemical, or magnetic means by investigating impedance by investigating resistance
  • H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
  • H04L 67/12 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks

13.

OVERSHOT AND UNDERSHOT CONTROL GATE

      
Application Number AU2020051110
Publication Number 2021/072496
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-10-15
Publication Date 2021-04-22
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David, John
  • Delacorn, John, Michael
  • Crozier, Jonathon, Ross
  • Yarygin, Eugene

Abstract

A control gate for a channel or pond adapted to be installed across a channel for liquids, the control gate comprising: at least two panels hingedly connected together, said panels having opposing sides in sealing engagement with the side walls of said channel, the lowermost panel being in sealing engagement with the floor of said channel and said panels being substantially vertically aligned in a fully closed position of said control gate, at least one first lifting means connected to the top of said uppermost panel adapted to lower and raise said uppermost panel relative to its hinged connection in a concertina manner to provide an overshot position for said control gate, at least one second lifting means connected to the bottom of the lowermost panel to raise and lower said lowermost panel from said floor of said channel to provide an undershot position for said control gate.

IPC Classes  ?

14.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING SURFACE LEVEL AND SOIL INFILTRATION UNDER IRRIGATION

      
Application Number AU2020050909
Publication Number 2021/035309
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-08-28
Publication Date 2021-03-04
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David, John
  • Delacorn, Joel, Michael

Abstract

The invention provides in one aspect a device (10) to determine a surface level of an area subject to flood, furrow, border-check or surface irrigation. The device (10) includes an open ended tube (12), to be, in use, partially inserted into a hole (36) in the soil to be irrigated. The tube (12) has a plurality of perforations (14) along its length and periphery to allow water entering perforations (14) from above ground level to fill said tube (12). A housing (26) is secured to the other end of tube (12) containing a programmable ultrasonic transducer (24) for transmitting and receiving acoustic signals from the water level within said tube (12). The housing (26) has electronic circuitry (28) and wireless communication elements (30) to control the programmable ultrasonic transducer (24). The surface level can be determined by monitoring water levels within the tube 12) by the change point at which increases in monitored water levels slow, after a rapid increase of the monitored water levels, and the depth of water flowing along the surface level is determined by the difference in monitored water levels and the determined change point and provide measured characteristics to a remote networked computer system.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01N 33/24 - Earth materials
  • A01G 25/16 - Control of watering
  • G01F 23/00 - Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm
  • G01N 29/02 - Analysing fluids
  • G01N 29/14 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic wavesVisualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object using acoustic emission techniques
  • G01N 29/44 - Processing the detected response signal

15.

Ultrasonic transducer support

      
Application Number 29659557
Grant Number D0910188
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-08-09
First Publication Date 2021-02-09
Grant Date 2021-02-09
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Murray, Peter
  • Catrina, Marius Catalin
  • Aughton, David John

16.

MULTI PULLEY CONTROL GATE

      
Document Number 03148626
Status Pending
Filing Date 2020-07-21
Open to Public Date 2021-02-04
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Delacorn, Joel Michael

Abstract

A control gate adapted to be installed across a channel for liquids, the control gate comprising a barrier member with a side member or offset member that has a circular arcuate section, said barrier member being pivotally mounted at or adjacent to the base of said channel; and a drive for raising and lowering said barrier member to regulate flow of liquid through said control gate, said drive including a cable, motor and first and second pulleys, said first pulley coupled to said motor, said cable secured to opposite first and second ends of said circular arcuate section under tension with said second pulley being adjacent to said circular arcuate section, said cable passing along said circular arcuate section from said one end to pass under said second pulley in contact therewith, said cable then being looped under tension at least once around said first pulley located above said second pulley, said cable then passing under said second pulley in contact with the opposite face of said second pulley to be secured to said second end of said arcuate section in order to maintain said cable in a substantially peripheral contact with said circular arcuate section, said second pulley transferring rotary motion of said first pulley into motion of said side member or offset member to movement of said barrier member to regulate flow of water through said control gate.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E02B 7/42 - Gates of segmental or sector-like shape with horizontal axis
  • E02B 13/02 - Closures for irrigation conduits

17.

MULTI PULLEY CONTROL GATE

      
Application Number AU2020050748
Publication Number 2021/016654
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-07-21
Publication Date 2021-02-04
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David, John
  • Delacorn, Joel, Michael

Abstract

A control gate adapted to be installed across a channel for liquids, the control gate comprising a barrier member with a side member or offset member that has a circular arcuate section, said barrier member being pivotally mounted at or adjacent to the base of said channel; and a drive for raising and lowering said barrier member to regulate flow of liquid through said control gate, said drive including a cable, motor and first and second pulleys, said first pulley coupled to said motor, said cable secured to opposite first and second ends of said circular arcuate section under tension with said second pulley being adjacent to said circular arcuate section, said cable passing along said circular arcuate section from said one end to pass under said second pulley in contact therewith, said cable then being looped under tension at least once around said first pulley located above said second pulley, said cable then passing under said second pulley in contact with the opposite face of said second pulley to be secured to said second end of said arcuate section in order to maintain said cable in a substantially peripheral contact with said circular arcuate section, said second pulley transferring rotary motion of said first pulley into motion of said side member or offset member to movement of said barrier member to regulate flow of water through said control gate.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E02B 7/42 - Gates of segmental or sector-like shape with horizontal axis
  • E02B 13/02 - Closures for irrigation conduits

18.

Rain gauge for measuring rain fall in an automatic weather station having an ultrasonic transducer for transmitting and receiving acustic signals into measurement chamber and programmable to determine water level in measurement chamber

      
Application Number 16762837
Grant Number 11531139
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-11-08
First Publication Date 2021-01-28
Grant Date 2022-12-20
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Delacorn, Joel Michael
  • Dittloff, Rolf
  • Siragusano, Mario Joseph

Abstract

A rain gauge for measurement of rain fall. The rain gauge includes: a measurement chamber having an inlet port at one end and a drainage port at the other end, the drainage port being closed by a valve and programmable to be opened at predefined events to release water collected in measurement chamber; a funnel or collector adapted to receive rain fall opens into the inlet port; and an ultrasonic transducer for transmitting and receiving acoustic signals into measurement chamber. The ultrasonic transducer is programmable to determine the water level in measurement chamber. An automatic weather station including the rain gauge is also provided.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01W 1/14 - Rainfall or precipitation gauges
  • G01F 23/296 - Acoustic waves
  • G01P 5/24 - Measuring speed of fluids, e.g. of air streamMeasuring speed of bodies relative to fluids, e.g. of ship, of aircraft by measuring the direct influence of the streaming fluid on the properties of a detecting acoustical wave
  • G01P 13/00 - Indicating or recording presence or absence of movementIndicating or recording of direction of movement
  • G01F 25/20 - Testing or calibration of apparatus for measuring volume, volume flow or liquid level or for metering by volume of apparatus for measuring liquid level

19.

FARMCONNECT

      
Application Number 1559210
Status Registered
Filing Date 2020-10-06
Registration Date 2020-10-06
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
NICE Classes  ? 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments

Goods & Services

Measuring, signalling and supervision equipment; control and data acquisition equipment; control and data acquisition systems for remotely monitoring and controlling equipment in the field; software, including software for scheduling customer orders, software for communications networks, software for lodgement and modification of orders, software for planner supervision and management, software for database management and software for behavioural modelling; equipment for measuring water flow and water levels; flow meters; communications equipment; equipment and apparatus for communications and communications networks; all of the foregoing being for management of water flows and levels.

20.

FARMCONNECT

      
Serial Number 79297514
Status Registered
Filing Date 2020-10-06
Registration Date 2021-05-25
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
NICE Classes  ? 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments

Goods & Services

Measuring, signalling and supervision equipment, namely, electronic water flow meters, electronic soil moisture sensors, electronic temperature sensors, electronic humidity sensors, electronic rainfall sensors, electronic wind speed and direction sensors, wireless transmitters and receivers, electronic water level sensors and indicators, mobile data transmitters and receivers, electronic global positioning system receivers, and measuring, signalling and supervision equipment for management of water flows and level comprised of electronic controls and downloadable or recorded computer software for managing and remotely monitoring water flows and levels in pipes, channels and aqueducts; control and data acquisition systems for remotely monitoring and controlling equipment in the field comprised of electronic water flow meters, electric soil moisture sensors, electronic wind speed and direction sensors, electronic water level sensors and indicators, weather stations, and electronic global positioning system receivers; downloadable software, namely, software for scheduling customer orders, software for lodgement and modification of orders, software for planner supervision and management, and software for behavioural modelling; scientific instrumentation for measuring water flow and water levels; flow meters; communications equipment, namely, remote terminal units, data radios and antennas; equipment and apparatus for communications and communications networks, namely, electronic meters, electronic monitors and downloadable or recorded computer software for connecting to communications networks to allow for remote measuring, monitoring, and regulating water flows and metal gates in pipes, channels and aqueducts, and electronic interfaces for connecting to communications networks and transmitting data used in managing water flows and levels; all of the foregoing being for management of water flows and levels

21.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PLANT STRESS DETERMINATION AND IRRIGATION BASED THEREON

      
Application Number AU2019050919
Publication Number 2020/047579
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-08-29
Publication Date 2020-03-12
Owner
  • RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
  • THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE (Australia)
Inventor
  • Klemm, Mark, Francis
  • Western, Andrew, William
  • Ryu, Dongryeol
  • Aughton, David, John

Abstract

The invention provides various methods of plant stress determination including using a computer-based camera system (84) having thermal imaging (46) and visual imaging (50) to capture foliage at close proximity of at least one plant (70) to provide high resolution images/video (72, 74) thereof; analyzing both thermal and visual images/video (72, 74) therefrom to form a composite image; determining the thermal activity of the composite image/video and photosynthesis state of said at least one plant (70); and deriving the plant stress from said determination. A handheld computer-based camera system (84) is also disclosed having a smartphone (86) and thermal imaging device (100).

IPC Classes  ?

  • A01G 25/16 - Control of watering
  • A01G 25/00 - Watering gardens, fields, sports grounds or the like
  • G01N 21/35 - Investigating relative effect of material at wavelengths characteristic of specific elements or molecules, e.g. atomic absorption spectrometry using infrared light
  • G01N 21/84 - Systems specially adapted for particular applications
  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis

22.

Acoustic transducer arrangement including respective transducer set for each edge of a notational regular polygon

      
Application Number 16478694
Grant Number 11422015
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-01-17
First Publication Date 2019-12-05
Grant Date 2022-08-23
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Bish, Gordon John
  • Bayliss, Craig Joseph
  • Catrina, Marius Catalin

Abstract

An arrangement of acoustic transducers for a flow meter. The flow meter is for measuring the rate at which fluid is flowing. The arrangement includes a respective transducer set for each edge of a notional regular polygon. The transducer sets are associated with a tubular cavity for carrying the fluid. Each of the transducer sets respectively includes two acoustic transducers oriented to define an acoustic path lying in a measurement plane of the respective set, and another two acoustic transducers oriented to define another acoustic path lying in the measurement plane of the respective set. The transducers sets are positioned so that, in a cross-section normal to the tubular cavity, the measurement plane of each respective transducer set is coincident with a respective edge of the notional regular polygon.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
  • G01F 1/667 - Arrangements of transducers for ultrasonic flowmetersCircuits for operating ultrasonic flowmeters
  • G01F 23/296 - Acoustic waves
  • G01F 15/00 - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus of groups insofar as such details or appliances are not adapted to particular types of such apparatus

23.

Actuation and valve mechanism

      
Application Number 16389569
Grant Number 11155974
Status In Force
Filing Date 2019-04-19
First Publication Date 2019-08-08
Grant Date 2021-10-26
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor Aughton, David John

Abstract

An arrangement for controlling and measuring flow. The arrangement includes a fluid control barrier and a flow-measuring apparatus upstream of the fluid control barrier. The fluid control barrier includes a pair of plates for opening and closing a pipe, and the plates are movable towards a center line of the pipe to open the pipe and produce a symmetrical flow profile for the flow-measuring apparatus.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E02B 13/02 - Closures for irrigation conduits
  • F16K 31/50 - Mechanical actuating means with screw-spindle
  • F16L 55/10 - Means for stopping flow in pipes or hoses

24.

RAIN GAUGE/WEATHER STATION

      
Document Number 03082214
Status Pending
Filing Date 2018-11-08
Open to Public Date 2019-05-16
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Delacorn, Joel Michael
  • Dittloff, Rolf
  • Siragusano, Mario Joseph

Abstract

The invention provides a rain gauge (10) for measurement of rain fall. The rain gauge (10) includes a measurement chamber (30) having an inlet port (32) at one end and a drainage port (34) at the other end. Drainage port (34) being closed by a valve (50) and being programmable to be opened at predefined events to release water collected in measurement chamber (30). A funnel or collector (14) adapted to receive rain fall opens into inlet port (32) and an ultrasonic transducer (36) for transmitting and receiving acoustic signals (38) into measurement chamber (30). The ultrasonic transducer (36) being programmable to determine the water level in measurement chamber (30). The invention also encompasses an automatic weather station (300) including rain gauge (10).

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01W 1/14 - Rainfall or precipitation gauges
  • G05D 9/12 - Level control, e.g. controlling quantity of material stored in vessel characterised by the use of electric means

25.

RAIN GAUGE/WEATHER STATION

      
Application Number AU2018051205
Publication Number 2019/090391
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-11-08
Publication Date 2019-05-16
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David, John
  • Delacorn, Joel, Michael
  • Dittloff, Rolf
  • Siragusano, Mario, Joseph

Abstract

The invention provides a rain gauge (10) for measurement of rain fall. The rain gauge (10) includes a measurement chamber (30) having an inlet port (32) at one end and a drainage port (34) at the other end. Drainage port (34) being closed by a valve (50) and being programmable to be opened at predefined events to release water collected in measurement chamber (30). A funnel or collector (14) adapted to receive rain fall opens into inlet port (32) and an ultrasonic transducer (36) for transmitting and receiving acoustic signals (38) into measurement chamber (30). The ultrasonic transducer (36) being programmable to determine the water level in measurement chamber (30). The invention also encompasses an automatic weather station (300) including rain gauge (10).

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01W 1/14 - Rainfall or precipitation gauges
  • G05D 9/12 - Level control, e.g. controlling quantity of material stored in vessel characterised by the use of electric means

26.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR WATER DISTRIBUTION AND SOIL MOISTURE DETERMINATION

      
Application Number AU2018050858
Publication Number 2019/033158
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-08-14
Publication Date 2019-02-21
Owner
  • RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
  • THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David, John
  • Choy, Sumith
  • Mareels, Iven, Michiel, Yvonne
  • Ryu, Dongryeol
  • Western, Andrew

Abstract

A method of spatially deriving the soil moisture at a selected location within an irrigation district to be irrigated, said method including the steps of using system identification techniques to produce an algorithm for evapotranspiration based on a predetermined selection from the following measured parameters: solar radiation spectrum, wind speed, temperature, humidity, crop factor, soil type, barometric pressure, irrigation historical data, and energy measurement from solar panels at each of a plurality of representative locations; calibrating said algorithm by direct measurement of the moisture in the soil at each of said representative locations by respective soil moisture sensors; and using measured parameters of rainfall, soil type, irrigation historical data and crop factor with said algorithm to derive or interpolate soil moisture at said selected location within said irrigation district.

IPC Classes  ?

  • A01G 25/00 - Watering gardens, fields, sports grounds or the like
  • A01G 25/16 - Control of watering

27.

FLOW MEASUREMENT

      
Document Number 03050550
Status Pending
Filing Date 2018-01-17
Open to Public Date 2018-07-26
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Bish, Gordon John
  • Bayliss, Craig Joseph
  • Catrina, Marius Catalin

Abstract

An arrangement 5 of acoustic transducers (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, 11a, 11b,11c, 11d, 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) for a flow meter. The flow meter is for measuring the rate at which fluid is flowing. The arrangement includes a respective transducer set (7, 9, 11, 13) for each edge of a notional regular polygon NRP. The transducer sets are associated with a tubular cavity for carrying the fluid. Each of the transducer sets respectively includes two acoustic transducers oriented to define an acoustic path lying in a measurement plane MP7 of the respective set, and another two acoustic transducers oriented to define another acoustic path lying in the measurement plane of the respective set. The transducers sets are positioned so that, in cross-section normal to the tubular cavity, the measurement plane of each respective transducer set is coincident with a respective edge of the notional regular polygon.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters

28.

FLOW MEASUREMENT

      
Application Number AU2018050028
Publication Number 2018/132870
Status In Force
Filing Date 2018-01-17
Publication Date 2018-07-26
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David, John
  • Bish, Gordon, John
  • Bayliss, Craig, Joseph
  • Catrina, Marius, Catalin

Abstract

An arrangement 5 of acoustic transducers (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d, 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, 11a, 11b,11c, 11d, 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d) for a flow meter. The flow meter is for measuring the rate at which fluid is flowing. The arrangement includes a respective transducer set (7, 9, 11, 13) for each edge of a notional regular polygon NRP. The transducer sets are associated with a tubular cavity for carrying the fluid. Each of the transducer sets respectively includes two acoustic transducers oriented to define an acoustic path lying in a measurement plane MP7 of the respective set, and another two acoustic transducers oriented to define another acoustic path lying in the measurement plane of the respective set. The transducers sets are positioned so that, in cross-section normal to the tubular cavity, the measurement plane of each respective transducer set is coincident with a respective edge of the notional regular polygon.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters

29.

PikoMeter

      
Application Number 1404154
Status Registered
Filing Date 2017-11-24
Registration Date 2017-11-24
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd (Australia)
NICE Classes  ?
  • 06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
  • 07 - Machines and machine tools
  • 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
  • 11 - Environmental control apparatus

Goods & Services

Manually operated metal valves; valves for controlling, permitting or stopping water flow; metal gates for controlling, permitting or stopping water flow; parts and accessories for the aforementioned. Control valves (parts of machines); fluid valves for agricultural use (parts of machines); motorised valves, power operated valves, both being parts of machines; regulators (valves) being parts of machines; valves for measuring fluid flow. Measuring, signalling and supervision equipment; measuring, signalling and supervision equipment for management of water flows and levels, including electronic controls and computer software used for managing and remotely monitoring water flows and levels in pipes, channels and aqueducts; control and data acquisition equipment; control and data acquisition systems for remotely monitoring and controlling equipment in the field; computer software, including computer software for scheduling customer orders, computer software for communications networks, computer software for lodgement and modification of orders, computer software for planner supervision and management, computer software for database management and computer software for behavioural modelling; equipment for measuring and monitoring water flow and water levels; flow meters; electronic meters for measuring and monitoring water flows and levels; communications equipment; equipment and apparatus for communications and communications networks; electronic interfaces for connecting to communications networks and transmitting data used in managing water flows and levels; all of the foregoing being for management or monitoring of water flows and levels; parts and accessories for the aforementioned; accessories of meter for irrigation pipelines. Water regulating apparatus, water flow regulation control equipment; equipment for regulating water flow; regulating accessories for water apparatus, pipes, channels and aqueducts; water flow regulation control systems comprised of metal gates or valves, electronic meters, electronic monitors and computer software for connecting to communications networks to allow for remote measuring, monitoring and regulating water flows and pipes, channels and aqueducts; water regulating valves (regulating accessories), installations for water supply; safety apparatus for apparatus carrying water; parts and accessories for the aforementioned.

30.

RUBICON WATER

      
Application Number 1402881
Status Registered
Filing Date 2017-10-02
Registration Date 2017-10-02
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd (Australia)
NICE Classes  ?
  • 06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
  • 07 - Machines and machine tools
  • 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
  • 11 - Environmental control apparatus
  • 19 - Non-metallic building materials
  • 37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
  • 39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
  • 42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design

Goods & Services

Metal gates for controlling, permitting or stopping water flow; valves of metal (manual); control valves (manual) for controlling the flow of liquids (other than parts of machines). Motorised valves, power operated valves; valves for measuring fluid flow. Measuring, signalling and supervision equipment; measuring, signalling and supervision equipment for management of water flows and levels, including electronic controls and computer software used for managing and remotely monitoring water flows and levels in pipes, channels and aqueducts; data processing equipment; electric, electronic, electromechanical or mechanical monitors and sensors for agricultural irrigation; technical measuring, testing and checking equipment for measuring, testing and checking the temperature, pressure, quantity or flow rate of liquids; level, flow or pressure switches and indicators for monitoring and controlling liquids in irrigation systems; pipeline communication systems for transferring data over water irrigation networks, comprised of computer hardware, software and a telecommunications network; automated process control systems, namely computer hardware and software to monitor the status of irrigation networks; microcontrollers for internet of things (iot) enabled devices; measuring and control devices for irrigation technology; computer software, including computer software for scheduling customer orders, computer software for communications networks, computer software for lodgement and modification of orders, computer software for planner supervision and management, computer software for database management and computer software for behavioural modelling; equipment for measuring and monitoring water flow and water levels; flow meters; electronic meters for measuring and monitoring water flows and levels; communications equipment; equipment and apparatus for communications and communications networks; electronic interfaces for connecting to communications networks and transmitting data used in managing water flows and levels; all of the foregoing being for management or monitoring of water flows and levels; computer hardware, networks. Water flow regulation control equipment; equipment for regulating water flow; regulating accessories for water apparatus, pipes, channels and aqueducts; water flow regulation apparatus to allow for regulating water flows in pipes, channels and aqueducts; apparatus for water supply; water regulating valves (regulating accessories); electrical appliances for water supply; electrical installations for water supply; installations for water supply; regulating accessories for water apparatus and pipes; regulating apparatus for water installations; water regulating apparatus. Non-metal gates for controlling, permitting or stopping water flow. Construction; civil engineering construction; building and construction services; mechanical engineering services (construction); pipeline construction and maintenance; pipe installation services; pipe laying services; irrigation devices installation and repair; land irrigation. Water supply management services; distribution of water; transport by pipeline; water distribution; water supply services; water supplying; provision of water distribution information via an online calculator; control of water flow volume. Computer software design and computer programming, including computer software design and computer programming in respect of water supply, water monitoring and water management; technological services for water supply including the monitoring of water flow volume, the measurement of water flow, and the monitoring and measuring of water supply levels; design and development of computer hardware and software; software as a service (saas); hosting of software as a service (saas); commissioning (testing and inspection) services; computer analysis; computer programming; computer software design; computer software development; computer software engineering; computer software programming services; design and development of computer software (for others); design of telecommunications installations; development of computer based networks; development of computer systems; development of systems for the processing of data; development of systems for the storage of data; development of systems for the transmission of data; installation, repair and maintenance of firmware; maintenance of computer programs; maintenance of computer software; provision of online non-downloadable software (application service provider).

31.

Actuation and valve mechanism

      
Application Number 15630268
Grant Number 10337642
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-06-22
First Publication Date 2017-12-07
Grant Date 2019-07-02
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD. (Australia)
Inventor Aughton, David John

Abstract

The invention provides a cable drive device (10) including a linear drive member (12), and a cable drum (14) attached to a support bracket (30, 32) adapted to be affixed to a surface. The cable drum (14) has an axle (26) supported by the support bracket (30, 32) to allow rotation of the cable drum (14). The cable drum (14) has a cable (42) affixed at either end of said linear drive member (12) and tautly wrapped around the cable drum (14). The cable drum (14) is located between the ends of the linear drive member (12) to, in use, allow the linear drive member (12) to be guided through the bracket (30, 32) to move the linear drive member (12) longitudinally when the axle (26) is rotated.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16K 31/50 - Mechanical actuating means with screw-spindle
  • E02B 7/42 - Gates of segmental or sector-like shape with horizontal axis
  • E02B 7/54 - Sealings for gates
  • E02B 13/02 - Closures for irrigation conduits
  • F16K 1/20 - Lift valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces with pivoted closure members with pivoted discs or flaps with axis of rotation arranged externally of valve member
  • F16L 55/10 - Means for stopping flow in pipes or hoses
  • F16H 19/06 - Gearings comprising essentially only toothed gears or friction members and not capable of conveying indefinitely-continuing rotary motion for interconverting rotary motion and reciprocating motion comprising an endless flexible member

32.

PIKOMETER

      
Serial Number 79233050
Status Registered
Filing Date 2017-11-24
Registration Date 2019-09-10
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd (Australia)
NICE Classes  ?
  • 06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
  • 07 - Machines and machine tools
  • 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
  • 11 - Environmental control apparatus

Goods & Services

Manually operated metal valves; metal valves for controlling, permitting or stopping water flow; metal gates for controlling, permitting or stopping water flow; metal parts for the aforementioned goods Control valves being part of machines; fluid valves for agricultural use being parts of machines; motorised valves, power operated valves, both being parts of machines; regulator valves being parts of machines; parts of machines, namely, valves for measuring fluid flow Measuring, signalling and supervision equipment, namely, measuring, signalling and supervision equipment for management of water flows and levels comprising electronic controls and computer software used for managing and remotely monitoring water flows and levels in pipes, channels and aqueducts; control and data acquisition equipment, namely, software for acquiring data from electronic meters and computer software used for measuring water flows and levels; control and data acquisition systems comprised of software for remotely monitoring and controlling equipment in the field of water regulation; computer software, namely, computer software for scheduling customer orders; computer software for communications networks to control water flows and levels, computer software for lodgement and modification of orders, computer software for planning supervision and management, computer software for database management and computer software for behavioural modelling; equipment for measuring and monitoring water flow and water levels, namely, flow meters; electronic meters for measuring and monitoring water flows and levels; communications equipment, namely, remote terminal units, data radios and antennas; equipment and apparatus for communications and communications networks, namely, electronic meters, electronic monitors and computer software for connecting to communications networks to allow for remote measuring, monitoring, and regulating water flows and metal gates in pipes, channels and aqueducts; electronic interfaces for connecting to communications networks and transmitting data used in managing water flows and levels; all of the foregoing being for management or monitoring of water flows and levels; parts for the aforementioned goods Water regulating apparatus, namely, water flow control valves and gates; water flow regulation control equipment, namely, regulating accessories for water apparatus, pipes, channels and aqueducts in the nature of pressure regulators for water installation, water flow restrictors and metered valves; water flow regulation control systems comprised of metal gates or valves, electronic meters, electronic monitors and computer software for connecting to communications networks to allow for remote measuring, monitoring and regulating water flows and pipes, channels and aqueducts; water regulating valves, being regulating accessories; installations for water supply, namely, agricultural irrigation systems; parts for the aforementioned goods

33.

RUBICON WATER

      
Serial Number 79232536
Status Registered
Filing Date 2017-10-02
Registration Date 2019-05-07
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd (Australia)
NICE Classes  ?
  • 06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
  • 07 - Machines and machine tools
  • 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
  • 11 - Environmental control apparatus
  • 19 - Non-metallic building materials
  • 37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
  • 39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
  • 42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design

Goods & Services

Metal gates for controlling, permitting or stopping water flow; manually operated metal valves Valves as machine components, namely, motorized valves, power operated valves; valves as machine components, namely, valves for measuring fluid flow Control valves, namely, manually operated metal valves for controlling the flow of liquids; Measuring, signalling and supervision equipment, namely, electronic water flow meters, electronic soil moisture sensors, electronic temperature sensors, electronic humidity sensors, electronic rainfall sensors, electronic wind speed and direction sensors, wireless transmitters and receivers, electronic water level sensors and indicators, mobile data transmitters and receivers, and electronic global positioning system receivers; measuring, signalling and supervision equipment for management of water flows and level comprised of electronic controls and computer software used for managing and remotely monitoring water flows and levels in pipes, channels and aqueducts; control and data acquisition systems for remotely monitoring and controlling equipment in the field comprised of electronic water flow meters, electric soil moisture sensors, electronic temperature sensors, electronic humidity sensors, electronic rainfall sensors, electronic wind speed and direction sensors, electronic water level sensors and indicators, weather stations, and electronic global positioning system receivers; computer software, namely, computer software for scheduling customer orders, computer software for connecting to communications networks, computer software for lodgement and modification of orders, computer software for use by operators in the supervision and management of irrigation water deliveries, computer software for database management and computer software for irrigation modeling namely software for modeling the behavior of water in irrigation distribution networks; scientific instrumentation for measuring and monitoring water flow and water levels; flow meters; electronic testing equipment, namely, meters for measuring and monitoring water flows and levels; electronic interfaces for connecting to telemetry networks and transmitting data used in managing water flows and level, namely, interfaces for electronic communication devices; computer hardware; computer networking hardware Water flow regulators for regulating water flow in pipes, channels and aqueducts Non-metal gates for controlling, permitting or stopping water flow Construction relating to irrigation; pipeline construction and maintenance; irrigation pipe installation services; pipe laying services; irrigation devices installation and repair; land irrigation, namely, installation and maintenance of irrigation systems distribution of water; water distribution; water supply services; water supplying; provision of water distribution information on-line through hand-held electronic devices or computers; utility services, namely, providing water services in the natured of control of water flow volume civil engineering related to irrigation; mechanical engineering related to irrigation; computer software design and computer programming, including computer software design and computer programming in respect of water supply, water monitoring and water management; Technological monitoring services for conditions of water supply, namely, monitoring of water flow volume, measurement of water flow, the monitoring and measuring of water supply levels; design and development of computer hardware and software; software as a service (SaaS) services, namely, software for the design, operation and management of irrigation systems and the scheduling and application of water to crops; software as a service (SaaS) services, namely, hosting software for use by others for the design, operation and management of irrigation systems and the scheduling and application of water to crops; commissioning, testing and inspection services in relation to irrigation systems; computer analysis, namely, computer systems analysis; computer programming; computer software design; computer software development; computer software engineering; programming of computer software for others; design and development of computer software for others; design of telecommunications apparatus and equipment; design and development of wireless computer networks; design of computer systems; design of computer systems for the processing of data; design of computer systems for the storage of data; design of computer systems for the transmission of data; installation, updating and maintenance of firmware; maintenance of computer programs; maintenance of computer software; provision of online non-downloadable software for use in database management in the field of water management in supply

34.

Valve for controlling fluid flow using an inner collapsible bellows

      
Application Number 15452653
Grant Number 09791066
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-03-07
First Publication Date 2017-06-29
Grant Date 2017-10-17
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Catrina, Marius

Abstract

A valve for controlling fluid flow from an inlet of a pipe fitting to at least one outlet of the pipe fitting at an angle to the inlet. The pipe fitting includes an inner collapsible bellows fixed at a position opposite the inlet. The bellows has a support annulus at the other end adjacent the inlet, whereby, in a closed position, the bellows prevents fluid flow from the inlet to the at least one outlet as the fluid is trapped within the bellows. In an open position, the fluid can flow from the inlet to the at least one outlet when the bellows is collapsed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16K 7/14 - Diaphragm cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage with flat, dished, or bowl-shaped diaphragm arranged to be deformed against a flat seat
  • F16K 41/10 - Spindle sealings with diaphragm, e.g. shaped as bellows or tube
  • A01G 25/16 - Control of watering
  • F16K 7/02 - Diaphragm cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage with tubular diaphragm

35.

Demand management system for fluid networks

      
Application Number 15425911
Grant Number 10353407
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-02-06
First Publication Date 2017-05-25
Grant Date 2019-07-16
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD. (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Choy, Sumith

Abstract

The invention provides a method of demand management for fluid networks. The method includes the steps of providing a computer controlled fluid network for delivery of fluid to at least one customer (14), maintaining a real time database (16) within the computer controlled fluid network of predetermined parameters, requesting a flow rate and time of delivery of said fluid from the fluid network through a user interface (22) to a customer (20), determining, using predetermined parameters from the real time database (16), the availability (24) of providing delivery of fluid from the fluid network to the customer (14) based on hydraulic capacity of the fluid network, and, if the hydraulic capacity is available, calculating parameters (38) using the real time database (16) to deliver fluid to the customer (14) through the computer controlled fluid network.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05D 7/06 - Control of flow characterised by the use of electric means
  • G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
  • E03B 1/02 - Methods or layout of installations for water supply for public or like main supply
  • G05B 13/04 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric involving the use of models or simulators
  • E03B 1/00 - Methods or layout of installations for water supply

36.

Flow meter assembly, gate assemblies and methods of flow measurement

      
Application Number 15411545
Grant Number 09804008
Status In Force
Filing Date 2017-01-20
First Publication Date 2017-05-11
Grant Date 2017-10-31
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD. (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Pearson, Damien Vernon

Abstract

The present invention provides an acoustic flow meter assembly (2) for pipes or open channels, said assembly including a frame (24) with a predetermined geometry. The frame has at least one user accessible port (36-42) with the at least one user accessible port (36-42) adapted to receive an interchangeable cartridge (44) which contains at least one acoustic transducer (46) to measure fluid velocity through said frame (24).

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
  • G01F 1/00 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow
  • E05F 15/00 - Power-operated mechanisms for wings
  • E05D 15/48 - Suspension arrangements for wings allowing alternative movements
  • E02B 7/40 - Swinging or turning gates
  • E02B 7/28 - Vertical-lift gates with sliding gates

37.

Pipe fitting

      
Application Number 29541520
Grant Number D0777300
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-10-05
First Publication Date 2017-01-24
Grant Date 2017-01-24
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd (Australia)
Inventor
  • Grant, Donald
  • Vesely, John

38.

Undershot gate flow control system with flow diverter

      
Application Number 14435144
Grant Number 09759591
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-10-11
First Publication Date 2016-09-29
Grant Date 2017-09-12
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Pearson, Damien Vernon
  • Tyrrell, Reece Joseph

Abstract

An undershot gate system controls flow of liquid through an open channel or pipe. The system includes a gate leaf adapted to be raised and lowered by a control to allow flow of liquid along the open channel or pipe. The gate leaf has a flow diverter at an end of the gate leaf to guide liquid under the gate leaf and through an opening when the gate leaf is in an open position.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E02B 7/20 - Movable barragesLock gates
  • G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
  • G01F 1/00 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow
  • E02B 7/26 - Vertical-lift gates
  • E02B 13/02 - Closures for irrigation conduits
  • G01B 13/06 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of fluids for measuring length, width, or thickness for measuring thickness
  • G01P 5/24 - Measuring speed of fluids, e.g. of air streamMeasuring speed of bodies relative to fluids, e.g. of ship, of aircraft by measuring the direct influence of the streaming fluid on the properties of a detecting acoustical wave
  • E02B 8/04 - Valves, slides, or the likeSubmerged sluice gates
  • E02B 7/28 - Vertical-lift gates with sliding gates

39.

Method of demand management and control of fluid pipe networks

      
Application Number 14916181
Grant Number 10114388
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-09-04
First Publication Date 2016-07-21
Grant Date 2018-10-30
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Choy, Sumith

Abstract

A method of demand management and control of fluid pipe networks including providing a computer controlled fluid network for delivery of fluid through a plurality of valves, maintaining a real time database of predetermined parameters including flow schedules and valve capabilities, requesting a flow rate and time of delivery of said fluid to at least one of said plurality of valves, determining availability of providing delivery and flow rate of fluid to the at least one of said plurality of valves based on hydraulic capacity of the fluid network, and calculating parameters using the database to deliver fluid to the at least one of said plurality of valves, whereby each of the plurality of valves is monitored and adjustably controlled to provide the flow rate and delivery through the at least one of said plurality of valves and manage the pressure head within said fluid pipe network between predetermined limits.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E02B 13/00 - Irrigation ditches, i.e. gravity flow, open channel water distribution systems
  • F17D 1/00 - Pipe-line systems
  • G05D 7/06 - Control of flow characterised by the use of electric means
  • G05B 17/02 - Systems involving the use of models or simulators of said systems electric
  • G06F 17/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific functions

40.

FLOW MEASUREMENT

      
Application Number AU2015050772
Publication Number 2016/090424
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-12-07
Publication Date 2016-06-16
Owner
  • RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
  • THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Mareels, Iven

Abstract

The invention provides a method of measuring the velocity and flow rate of a body of a fluid passing through a pipe (10) 5 or open channel. The method including the steps of: monitoring the decay or attenuation rate of the amplitude of reflected waveforms (18) from at least one sensor (12) located within the pipe (10) or open channel. Determination of a relationship or algorithm for the flow rate (20) using 10 calculations is derived from system identification techniques based on data received from the monitoring of the decay or attenuation rate of the amplitude of reflected waveforms (18) from said at least one sensor (12). Once the relationship or algorithm has been determined, said relationship or 15 algorithm is used to subsequently measure the flow rate (20).

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01F 1/00 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow
  • G01F 25/00 - Testing or calibration of apparatus for measuring volume, volume flow or liquid level or for metering by volume

41.

Valve for controlling fluid flow using an inner collapsible bellows

      
Application Number 14783070
Grant Number 09615517
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-04-11
First Publication Date 2016-02-18
Grant Date 2017-04-11
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Catrina, Marius

Abstract

A valve for controlling fluid flow from an inlet of a pipe fitting to at least one outlet of the pipe fitting at an angle to the inlet. The pipe fitting includes an inner collapsible bellows fixed at a position opposite the inlet. The bellows has a support annulus at the other end adjacent the inlet, whereby, in a closed position, the bellows prevents fluid flow from the inlet to the at least one outlet as the fluid is trapped within the bellows. In an open position, the fluid can flow from the inlet to the at least one outlet when the bellows is collapsed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16K 7/14 - Diaphragm cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage with flat, dished, or bowl-shaped diaphragm arranged to be deformed against a flat seat
  • A01G 25/16 - Control of watering
  • F16K 7/02 - Diaphragm cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage with tubular diaphragm
  • F16K 41/10 - Spindle sealings with diaphragm, e.g. shaped as bellows or tube

42.

MEASUREMENT OF FLOW THROUGH PIPELINES

      
Application Number AU2015050374
Publication Number 2016/004471
Status In Force
Filing Date 2015-07-03
Publication Date 2016-01-14
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor Aughton, David, John

Abstract

The invention provides a method of measuring the flow rate of fluid through a gate member (22) attached to a pipeline (20). The pipeline including a flow meter (26) upstream and adjacent the gate member (22). The flow meter providing a flow output to measure the fluid flow through the flow meter. The method includes steps of monitoring the flow output (QTPFM) from the flow meter; monitoring the gate opening position (d) of gate member (22); determining a relationship or algorithm for the flow rate (Q) using calculations derived from system identification techniques based on data received from the monitoring of the flow output from the flow meter (26) and data received from the monitoring of the gate opening position (d); and once the relationship or algorithm has been determined, using the relationship or algorithm to subsequently measure said flow rate (Q).

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01F 1/00 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow
  • G05D 7/00 - Control of flow
  • G05D 16/00 - Control of fluid pressure

43.

Pipeline system for fluids

      
Application Number 14648689
Grant Number 10578112
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-11-26
First Publication Date 2015-10-22
Grant Date 2020-03-03
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor Aughton, David John

Abstract

The invention provides method and system of controlling flow rate in a pipeline network for fluids. The system includes a demand management system to monitor fluid flow rate in the pipeline network (10) and a pump (34) to increase the fluid flow rate when the demand management system determines an increase in fluid flow rate is required.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F04D 15/00 - Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations, or systems
  • F04D 3/02 - Axial-flow pumps of screw type
  • F04D 15/02 - Stopping of pumps, or operating valves, on occurrence of unwanted conditions
  • G05D 7/00 - Control of flow

44.

Control gates and valves

      
Application Number 14414067
Grant Number 09376779
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-07-12
First Publication Date 2015-07-09
Grant Date 2016-06-28
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd (Australia)
Inventor Aughton, David John

Abstract

The invention discloses an overshot control gate for use with trapezoidal irrigation channels. A gate has a rigid rectangular section adapted to, in use, be pivotally mounted to a base of a trapezoidal irrigation channel. A pair of triangular sections are pivotally mounted on opposite sides of the rigid rectangular section. Each of the triangular sections are divided into first and second triangular sections with a common apex at the base of the trapezoidal irrigation channel. Each of the first triangular sections are rigid and adapted to, in use, be pivotally mounted to opposite side walls of the trapezoidal irrigation channel. Each of the second triangular sections including the pivotal mounting on opposite sides of the rigid rectangular section are formed of a flexible material. Also disclosed is a pipe flow meter and a duckbill valve.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E02B 5/08 - Details, e.g. gates, screens
  • E02B 7/40 - Swinging or turning gates
  • G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
  • G01F 15/00 - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus of groups insofar as such details or appliances are not adapted to particular types of such apparatus
  • E02B 13/02 - Closures for irrigation conduits
  • E02B 8/04 - Valves, slides, or the likeSubmerged sluice gates
  • F16K 7/04 - Diaphragm cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage with tubular diaphragm constrictable by external radial force
  • F16K 15/14 - Check valves with flexible valve members
  • F16L 11/00 - Hoses, i.e. flexible pipes

45.

Silt control in fluid networks

      
Application Number 14404947
Grant Number 09528864
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-05-30
First Publication Date 2015-05-28
Grant Date 2016-12-27
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Pearson, Damien Vernon
  • Tyrrell, Reece Joseph
  • Bish, Gordon John

Abstract

The invention relates to a method of detecting a buildup of silt in a pipe or open channel of a fluid flow network. The pipe or open channel has a system with at least one set of velocity sensors to measure flow velocities at predetermined horizontal levels. The method includes the steps of computing flow using measured flow velocities and cross-sectional areas for each flow layer, summing the flows to provide a total flow, monitoring the measured flow velocities and storing the measured flow velocities to detect any ongoing reduction in flow velocity of at least a lowermost velocity sensor to provide an indication of a buildup of silt in the pipe or open channel.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01F 1/00 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow
  • B08B 17/02 - Preventing deposition of fouling or of dust
  • E03B 7/07 - Arrangement of devices, e.g. filters, flow controls, measuring devices, siphons or valves, in the pipe systems
  • F17D 3/18 - Arrangements for supervising or controlling working operations for measuring the quantity of conveyed product
  • F17D 5/00 - Protection or supervision of installations
  • G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
  • G01F 1/74 - Devices for measuring flow of a fluid or flow of a fluent solid material in suspension in another fluid
  • G01N 11/00 - Investigating flow properties of materials, e.g. viscosity or plasticityAnalysing materials by determining flow properties
  • G01F 23/296 - Acoustic waves
  • G01M 1/00 - Testing static or dynamic balance of machines or structures
  • G01F 15/07 - Integration to give total flow, e.g. using mechanically-operated integrating mechanism

46.

METHOD OF DEMAND MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL OF FLUID PIPE NETWORKS

      
Application Number AU2014050208
Publication Number 2015/031954
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-09-04
Publication Date 2015-03-12
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David, John
  • Choy, Sumith

Abstract

The invention discloses a method of demand management and control of limited pressure head or gravity fed fluid pipe networks (42). The method includes the steps of providing a computer controlled fluid network (40) for delivery of fluid through a plurality of valves (16, 18, 20), maintaining a real time database (48) within said computer controlled fluid network (40) of predetermined parameters including flow schedules and capabilities of the plurality of valves (16, 18, 20), requesting, through a user interface (44), a flow rate and time of delivery of said fluid from the fluid network to at least one of plurality of valves (16, 18, 20), determining, using the predetermined parameters from real time database (48), the availability of providing delivery and flow rate of fluid from the fluid network (40) to the at least one of said plurality of valves (16, 18, 20) based on hydraulic capacity of the fluid network (42), and, if the hydraulic capacity is available, calculating parameters using the real time database (48) to deliver fluid to the at least one of said plurality of valves (16, 18, 20) through said computer controlled fluid network (42), whereby each of the plurality of valves (16, 18, 20) is monitored and adjustably controlled to provide the flow rate and delivery through the at least one of said plurality of valves (16, 18, 20) in unison with the monitoring and controlling of the others of the plurality of valves (16, 18, 20) to maintain the flow and manage the pressure head within fluid pipe network (42) between predetermined limits.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E02B 1/00 - Equipment or apparatus for, or methods of, general hydraulic engineering
  • G05B 19/00 - Programme-control systems
  • G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
  • G06F 17/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific functions

47.

METHOD OF DEMAND MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL OF FLUID PIPE NETWORKS

      
Document Number 02922906
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-09-04
Open to Public Date 2015-03-12
Grant Date 2021-06-08
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Choy, Sumith

Abstract

The invention discloses a method of demand management and control of limited pressure head or gravity fed fluid pipe networks (42). The method includes the steps of providing a computer controlled fluid network (40) for delivery of fluid through a plurality of valves (16, 18, 20), maintaining a real time database (48) within said computer controlled fluid network (40) of predetermined parameters including flow schedules and capabilities of the plurality of valves (16, 18, 20), requesting, through a user interface (44), a flow rate and time of delivery of said fluid from the fluid network to at least one of plurality of valves (16, 18, 20), determining, using the predetermined parameters from real time database (48), the availability of providing delivery and flow rate of fluid from the fluid network (40) to the at least one of said plurality of valves (16, 18, 20) based on hydraulic capacity of the fluid network (42), and, if the hydraulic capacity is available, calculating parameters using the real time database (48) to deliver fluid to the at least one of said plurality of valves (16, 18, 20) through said computer controlled fluid network (42), whereby each of the plurality of valves (16, 18, 20) is monitored and adjustably controlled to provide the flow rate and delivery through the at least one of said plurality of valves (16, 18, 20) in unison with the monitoring and controlling of the others of the plurality of valves (16, 18, 20) to maintain the flow and manage the pressure head within fluid pipe network (42) between predetermined limits.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E02B 1/00 - Equipment or apparatus for, or methods of, general hydraulic engineering
  • G05B 19/00 - Programme-control systems

48.

Supervisory control of automated irrigation channels

      
Application Number 14391007
Grant Number 09952601
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-04-05
First Publication Date 2015-02-26
Grant Date 2018-04-24
Owner
  • RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
  • UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE (Australia)
Inventor
  • Choy, Sumith
  • Cantoni, Michael William
  • Dower, Peter Maxwell
  • Kearney, Michael Peter

Abstract

A method of delivery of fluid through a computer controlled fluid network, the network including; regulators to control the flow of fluid to deliver a predetermined amount thereof to at least one customer; a first control system for opening and closing the regulators, which collects data based on timed measurements of fluid levels upstream and downstream of respective regulators and the opening positions of respective regulators, using data analysis to provide models for prediction of fluid levels between regulators; a second control system that is a supervisory layer interacting with the first control system to provide adjustments to the controlling of the regulators based on constraint and future flow load; and a third control system interacting with the first and second control systems, which processes fluid delivery requests from the at least one customer to provide a flow load delivery schedule based on the hydraulic capacity of the network.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05D 7/06 - Control of flow characterised by the use of electric means
  • G05B 13/04 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric involving the use of models or simulators
  • E03B 1/02 - Methods or layout of installations for water supply for public or like main supply

49.

Demand management system for fluid networks

      
Application Number 14236616
Grant Number 09563207
Status In Force
Filing Date 2012-08-01
First Publication Date 2014-12-25
Grant Date 2017-02-07
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Choy, Sumith

Abstract

The invention provides a method of demand management for fluid networks. The method includes the steps of providing a computer controlled fluid network for delivery of fluid to at least one customer (14), maintaining a real time database (16) within the computer controlled fluid network of predetermined parameters, requesting a flow rate and time of delivery of said fluid from the fluid network through a user interface (22) to a customer (20), determining, using predetermined parameters from the real time database (16), the availability (24) of providing delivery of fluid from the fluid network to the customer (14) based on hydraulic capacity of the fluid network, and, if the hydraulic capacity is available, calculating parameters (38) using the real time database (16) to deliver fluid to the customer (14) through the computer controlled fluid network.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05D 7/06 - Control of flow characterised by the use of electric means
  • G05B 13/04 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric involving the use of models or simulators
  • E03B 1/00 - Methods or layout of installations for water supply

50.

VALVE

      
Application Number AU2014000420
Publication Number 2014/169327
Status In Force
Filing Date 2014-04-11
Publication Date 2014-10-23
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David, John
  • Catrina, Marius

Abstract

The invention provides a valve for controlling fluid flow from an inlet (12) of a pipe fitting (10) to at least one outlet (14, 16) of the pipe fitting (10) at an angle to the inlet (12). The pipe fitting (10) includes an inner collapsible bellows (18) fixed at a position opposite the inlet (12). The bellows (18) has a support annulus (24) at the other end adjacent the inlet (12), whereby, in a closed position, the bellows (18) prevents fluid flow from the inlet (12) to the at least one outlet (14, 16) as the fluid is trapped within bellows (18). In the open position, the fluid can flow from the inlet (12) to the at least one outlet (14, 16) when the bellows (18) is collapsed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16K 7/06 - Diaphragm cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage with tubular diaphragm constrictable by external radial force by means of a screw-spindle, cam, or other mechanical means
  • F16K 1/00 - Lift valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces
  • F16K 31/126 - Operating meansReleasing devices actuated by fluid the fluid acting on a diaphragm, bellows, or the like
  • A01G 25/00 - Watering gardens, fields, sports grounds or the like

51.

PIPELINE SYSTEM FOR FLUIDS

      
Application Number AU2013001368
Publication Number 2014/082121
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-11-26
Publication Date 2014-06-05
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor Aughton, David, John

Abstract

The invention provides method and system of controlling flow rate in a pipeline network for fluids. The system includes a demand management system to monitor fluid flow rate in the pipeline network (10) and a pump (34) to increase the fluid flow rate when the demand management system determines an increase in fluid flow rate is required.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05D 7/00 - Control of flow
  • G05D 16/00 - Control of fluid pressure
  • G01M 3/28 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for pipes, cables, or tubesInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for pipe joints or sealsInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for valves

52.

FLOW MEASUREMENT

      
Application Number AU2013001185
Publication Number 2014/056046
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-10-11
Publication Date 2014-04-17
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Pearson, Damien, Vernon
  • Tyrrell, Reece, Joseph

Abstract

The invention discloses an undershot gate system to control flow of liquid through an open channel or pipe (14). The system includes a gate leaf (16) adapted to be raised and lowered by a control means to allow flow of liquid along the open channel or pipe (14). The gate leaf (16) has a flow diverter (36) at an end of gate leaf (16) to guide liquid under the gate leaf (16) and through an opening (10) when the gate leaf (16) is in an open position.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
  • E02B 13/00 - Irrigation ditches, i.e. gravity flow, open channel water distribution systems
  • E02B 7/26 - Vertical-lift gates
  • E02B 5/08 - Details, e.g. gates, screens
  • E02B 8/04 - Valves, slides, or the likeSubmerged sluice gates

53.

FLOW METER WITH ACOUSTIC ARRAY

      
Application Number AU2013000946
Publication Number 2014/032083
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-08-26
Publication Date 2014-03-06
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Pearson, Damien
  • Hooper, Kevin

Abstract

The present invention provides a flow meter (100) for a pipe or open channel (102). The flow meter (100) has a longitudinal member (114) adapted to be inserted into the pipe or open channel (102) but free of any internal wall of pipe or open channel (102). The longitudinal member (114) has a plurality of pairs of acoustic transducers (120, 122) located there around with each pair of acoustic transducers (120, 122) having a transmitting transducer and a receiving transducer. The transmitting transducer sends an acoustic signal to the internal wall of pipe or open channel (102) and the receiving transducer receives the reflected acoustic signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters

54.

CONTROL GATES AND VALVES

      
Application Number AU2013000777
Publication Number 2014/008553
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-07-12
Publication Date 2014-01-16
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor Aughton, David, John

Abstract

ABSTRACT The invention discloses an overshot control gate (26) for use with trapezoidal irrigation channels (10). Gate (26) has a rigid rectangular section (38) adapted to, in use, be pivotally mounted to the base (12) of trapezoidal irrigation channel (10). A pair of triangular sections are pivotally mounted on opposite sides (60, 62) of the rigid rectangular section (38). Each of the triangular sections being divided into first and second triangular sections (44, 46, 52, 54) with a common apex (70, 72) at the base (12) of the trapezoidal irrigation channel (10). Each of the first triangular sections (44, 46) being rigid and adapted to, in use, be pivotally mounted (48, 50) to opposite side walls (14, 16) of trapezoidal irrigation channel (10). Each of the second triangular sections 52, 54) including the pivotal mounting on opposite sides (60, 62) of rectangular section (38) and being formed of a flexible material. Also disclosed is a pipe flow meter (210) and a duckbill valve (200).

IPC Classes  ?

  • E02B 13/00 - Irrigation ditches, i.e. gravity flow, open channel water distribution systems
  • E02B 8/04 - Valves, slides, or the likeSubmerged sluice gates
  • E02B 7/40 - Swinging or turning gates
  • G01F 1/00 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow
  • F16K 7/00 - Diaphragm cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage
  • F16L 11/00 - Hoses, i.e. flexible pipes

55.

SILT CONTROL IN FLUID NETWORKS

      
Application Number AU2013000570
Publication Number 2013/177626
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-05-30
Publication Date 2013-12-05
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Pearson, Damien Vernon
  • Tyrrell, Reece Joseph
  • Bish, Gordon John

Abstract

The invention relates to a method of detecting a buildup of silt (32) in a pipe or open channel (14) of a fluid flow network. The pipe or open channel has a system with at least one set of velocity sensors (V1.. V8) to measure flow velocities at predetermined horizontal levels (50... 58). The method includes the steps of computing the flow using the measured flow velocities and cross- sectional areas for each flow layer, and summing the flows to provide a total flow, monitoring the measured flow velocities and storing the flow velocities to detect any ongoing reduction in the flow velocity of at least the lowermost velocity sensor (V1) to provide an indication of a buildup of silt in the pipe or open channel.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16L 58/00 - Protection of pipes or pipe fittings against corrosion or incrustation
  • F16L 55/24 - Preventing accumulation of dirt or other matter in pipes, e.g. by traps, by strainers
  • F28F 19/00 - Preventing the formation of deposits or corrosion, e.g. by using filters
  • F17D 5/00 - Protection or supervision of installations
  • F17D 3/18 - Arrangements for supervising or controlling working operations for measuring the quantity of conveyed product
  • B08B 17/02 - Preventing deposition of fouling or of dust
  • E03B 7/07 - Arrangement of devices, e.g. filters, flow controls, measuring devices, siphons or valves, in the pipe systems
  • G01F 5/00 - Measuring a proportion of the volume flow
  • G01F 23/00 - Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm
  • G01F 1/00 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow
  • G01F 3/00 - Measuring the volume flow of fluids or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through the meter in successive and more or less isolated quantities, the meter being driven by the flow
  • G01P 5/00 - Measuring speed of fluids, e.g. of air streamMeasuring speed of bodies relative to fluids, e.g. of ship, of aircraft

56.

SUPERVISORY CONTROL OF AUTOMATED IRRIGATION CHANNELS

      
Application Number AU2013000355
Publication Number 2013/149304
Status In Force
Filing Date 2013-04-05
Publication Date 2013-10-10
Owner
  • RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
  • THE UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE (Australia)
Inventor
  • Choy, Sumith
  • Cantoni, Michael William
  • Dower, Peter Maxwell
  • Kearney, Michael Peter

Abstract

The invention provides a method of delivery of fluid to at least one customer (114) through a computer controlled fluid network (100). The fluid network (100) has a plurality of regulators to control the flow of fluid along the fluid network (100) to deliver a predetermined amount of fluid to at least one customer (114). The network (100) includes a first control system (102) for opening and closing the regulators under computer control. The first control system (102) collects data based on timed measurements of fluid levels upstream and downstream of respective regulators and the opening positions of respective regulators, using data analysis to provide respective models for prediction of respective fluid levels between regulators. A second control system (104) that is a supervisory layer interacting with the first control system (102) to provide adjustments to the controlling of the regulators by the first control system (102) based on constraint and future flow load. A third control system interacting with the first (102) and second (104) control systems. The third control system (106) processing fluid delivery requests the at least one customer (114) to provide a flow load delivery schedule (118) based on the hydraulic capacity of the fluid network.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05B 19/00 - Programme-control systems
  • E03B 11/00 - Arrangements or adaptations of tanks for water supply

57.

DEMAND MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR FLUID NETWORKS

      
Application Number AU2012000907
Publication Number 2013/016769
Status In Force
Filing Date 2012-08-01
Publication Date 2013-02-07
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David, John
  • Choy, Sumith

Abstract

The invention provides a method of demand management for fluid networks. The method includes the steps of providing a computer controlled fluid network for delivery of fluid to at least one customer (14), maintaining a real time database (16) within the computer controlled fluid network of predetermined parameters, requesting a flow rate and time of delivery of said fluid from the fluid network through a user interface (22) to a customer (20), determining, using predetermined parameters from the real time database (16), the availability (24) of providing delivery of fluid from the fluid network to the customer (14) based on hydraulic capacity of the fluid network, and, if the hydraulic capacity is available, calculating parameters (38) using the real time database (16) to deliver fluid to the customer (14) through the computer controlled fluid network.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)

58.

ACTUATION AND VALVE MECHANISM

      
Document Number 02831797
Status In Force
Filing Date 2012-03-30
Open to Public Date 2012-10-04
Grant Date 2020-04-14
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor Aughton, David John

Abstract

The invention provides a cable drive device (10) including a linear drive member (12), and a cable drum (14) attached to a support bracket (30, 32) adapted to be affixed to a surface. The cable drum (14) has an axle (26) supported by the support bracket (30, 32) to allow rotation of the cable drum (14). The cable drum (14) has a cable (42) affixed at either end of said linear drive member (12) and tautly wrapped around the cable drum (14). The cable drum (14) is located between the ends of the linear drive member (12) to, in use, allow the linear drive member (12) to e guided through the bracket (30, 32) to move the linear drive member (12) longitudinally when the axle (26) is rotated.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16K 31/44 - Mechanical actuating means
  • B66D 1/00 - Rope, cable, or chain winding mechanismsCapstans
  • B66F 11/00 - Lifting devices specially adapted for particular uses not otherwise provided for
  • E02B 7/40 - Swinging or turning gates
  • E02B 9/06 - Pressure galleries or pressure conduitsGalleries specially adapted to house pressure conduitsMeans specially adapted for use therewith, e.g. housings, valves, gates
  • F16L 55/10 - Means for stopping flow in pipes or hoses

59.

ACTUATION AND VALVE MECHANISM

      
Application Number AU2012000328
Publication Number 2012/129609
Status In Force
Filing Date 2012-03-30
Publication Date 2012-10-04
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor Aughton, David, John

Abstract

The invention provides a cable drive device (10) including a linear drive member (12), and a cable drum (14) attached to a support bracket (30, 32) adapted to be affixed to a surface. The cable drum (14) has an axle (26) supported by the support bracket (30, 32) to allow rotation of the cable drum (14). The cable drum (14) has a cable (42) affixed at either end of said linear drive member (12) and tautly wrapped around the cable drum (14). The cable drum (14) is located between the ends of the linear drive member (12) to, in use, allow the linear drive member (12) to e guided through the bracket (30, 32) to move the linear drive member (12) longitudinally when the axle (26) is rotated.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16K 31/44 - Mechanical actuating means
  • B66F 11/00 - Lifting devices specially adapted for particular uses not otherwise provided for
  • E02B 9/06 - Pressure galleries or pressure conduitsGalleries specially adapted to house pressure conduitsMeans specially adapted for use therewith, e.g. housings, valves, gates
  • B66D 1/00 - Rope, cable, or chain winding mechanismsCapstans
  • E02B 7/40 - Swinging or turning gates
  • F16L 55/10 - Means for stopping flow in pipes or hoses

60.

ACTUATION AND VALVE MECHANISM

      
Document Number 03153748
Status Pending
Filing Date 2012-03-30
Open to Public Date 2012-10-04
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor Aughton, David John

Abstract

The invention provides a cable drive device (10) including a linear drive member (12), and a cable drum (14) attached to a support bracket (30, 32) adapted to be affixed to a surface. The cable drum (14) has an axle (26) supported by the support bracket (30, 32) to allow rotation of the cable drum (14). The cable drum (14) has a cable (42) affixed at either end of said linear drive member (12) and tautly wrapped around the cable drum (14). The cable drum (14) is located between the ends of the linear drive member (12) to, in use, allow the linear drive member (12) to be guided through the bracket (30, 32) to move the linear drive member (12) longitudinally when the axle (26) is rotated.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16K 31/44 - Mechanical actuating means
  • E02B 7/40 - Swinging or turning gates
  • E02B 9/06 - Pressure galleries or pressure conduitsGalleries specially adapted to house pressure conduitsMeans specially adapted for use therewith, e.g. housings, valves, gates
  • F16L 55/10 - Means for stopping flow in pipes or hoses

61.

ACTUATION AND VALVE MECHANISM

      
Document Number 03052881
Status In Force
Filing Date 2012-03-30
Open to Public Date 2012-10-04
Grant Date 2022-09-06
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor Aughton, David John

Abstract

The invention provides a cable drive device (10) including a linear drive member (12), and a cable drum (14) attached to a support bracket (30, 32) adapted to be affixed to a surface. The cable drum (14) has an axle (26) supported by the support bracket (30, 32) to allow rotation of the cable drum (14). The cable drum (14) has a cable (42) affixed at either end of said linear drive member (12) and tautly wrapped around the cable drum (14). The cable drum (14) is located between the ends of the linear drive member (12) to, in use, allow the linear drive member (12) to be guided through the bracket (30, 32) to move the linear drive member (12) longitudinally when the axle (26) is rotated.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16K 31/44 - Mechanical actuating means
  • E02B 7/40 - Swinging or turning gates
  • E02B 9/06 - Pressure galleries or pressure conduitsGalleries specially adapted to house pressure conduitsMeans specially adapted for use therewith, e.g. housings, valves, gates
  • F16L 55/10 - Means for stopping flow in pipes or hoses

62.

Method of determining surface level, and a soil moisture sensor

      
Application Number 13409013
Grant Number 08915131
Status In Force
Filing Date 2012-02-29
First Publication Date 2012-06-21
Grant Date 2014-12-23
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd. (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Pearson, Damien Vernon

Abstract

A method of determining the surface level of an area subject to flood, furrow or surface irrigation. The method includes the steps of providing at least one measuring cup positioned below the surface level but within the area and providing a water level sensor within or integrated with the at least one measuring cup. The levels provided by the water level sensor are used to calculate the surface level by determining the inflection point between the rapid increase of the monitored levels when the front of irrigation water passes the water level sensor. A further aspect of the disclosure is the provision of a soil moisture sensor, said sensor comprising an auger adapted to be inserted into the ground with minimum soil disturbance, said auger having means for measuring soil moisture.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E21B 47/00 - Survey of boreholes or wells
  • A01G 25/16 - Control of watering
  • G01F 23/00 - Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm
  • G01N 33/24 - Earth materials

63.

Flow meter assembly, gate assemblies and methods of flow measurement

      
Application Number 13399957
Grant Number 08474327
Status In Force
Filing Date 2012-02-17
First Publication Date 2012-06-14
Grant Date 2013-07-02
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd. (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Pearson, Damien Vernon

Abstract

The present invention provides an acoustic flow meter assembly (2) for pipes or open channels, said assembly including a frame (24) with a predetermined geometry. The frame has at least one user accessible port (36-42) with the at least one user accessible port (36-42) adapted to receive an interchangeable cartridge (44) which contains at least one acoustic transducer (46) to measure fluid velocity through said frame (24).

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters

64.

A METHOD OF DETERMINING SURFACE LEVEL, AND A SOIL MOISTURE SENSOR

      
Application Number AU2010001125
Publication Number 2011/026177
Status In Force
Filing Date 2010-09-01
Publication Date 2011-03-10
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David, John
  • Pearson, Damien, Vernon

Abstract

A method of determining the surface level of an area subject to flood, furrow or surface irrigation. The method includes the steps of providing at least one measuring cup positioned below the surface level but within the area and providing a water level sensor within or integrated with the at least one measuring cup. The levels provided by the water level sensor are used to calculate the surface level by determining the inflection point between the rapid increase of the monitored levels when the front of irrigation water passes the water level sensor. A further aspect of the disclosure is the provision of a soil moisture sensor, said sensor comprising an auger adapted to be inserted into the ground with minimum soil disturbance, said auger having means for measuring soil moisture..

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01F 23/00 - Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm
  • G01F 22/00 - Methods or apparatus for measuring volume of fluids or fluent solid material, not otherwise provided for
  • G01F 19/00 - Calibrated capacity measures for fluids or fluent solid material, e.g. measuring cups
  • E02B 13/00 - Irrigation ditches, i.e. gravity flow, open channel water distribution systems
  • G12B 9/00 - Housing or supporting of instruments or other apparatus
  • G01N 33/24 - Earth materials
  • A01G 25/16 - Control of watering

65.

FLOW METER ASSEMBLY, GATE ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS OF FLOW MEASUREMENT

      
Document Number 02771310
Status In Force
Filing Date 2010-08-18
Open to Public Date 2011-02-24
Grant Date 2017-12-19
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Pearson, Damien Vernon

Abstract

The present invention provides an acoustic flow meter assembly for pipes or open channels, said assembly including a frame with a predetermined geometry. The frame has at least one user accessible port adapted to receive an interchangeable cartridge which contains at least one acoustic transducer to measure fluid velocity through said frame. The invention also relates to vertical, lift and tilt lift gate assemblies for use in measuring fluid flows, methods of measuring fluid velocity in pipes and open channels characterised by the use of a delay circuit, fluid flow meters characterised by the use of redundant pairs of transducers, and a method of synchronisation of two transducers in a flow measuring apparatus for an open channel.

IPC Classes  ?

  • E02B 7/26 - Vertical-lift gates
  • E02B 7/40 - Swinging or turning gates
  • E02B 13/02 - Closures for irrigation conduits
  • G01P 5/24 - Measuring speed of fluids, e.g. of air streamMeasuring speed of bodies relative to fluids, e.g. of ship, of aircraft by measuring the direct influence of the streaming fluid on the properties of a detecting acoustical wave
  • G12B 9/00 - Housing or supporting of instruments or other apparatus

66.

FLOW METER ASSEMBLY, GATE ASSEMBLIES AND METHODS OF FLOW MEASUREMENT

      
Application Number AU2010001052
Publication Number 2011/020143
Status In Force
Filing Date 2010-08-18
Publication Date 2011-02-24
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David John
  • Pearson, Damien Vernon

Abstract

The present invention provides an acoustic flow meter assembly for pipes or open channels, said assembly including a frame with a predetermined geometry. The frame has at least one user accessible port adapted to receive an interchangeable cartridge which contains at least one acoustic transducer to measure fluid velocity through said frame. The invention also relates to vertical, lift and tilt lift gate assemblies for use in measuring fluid flows, methods of measuring fluid velocity in pipes and open channels characterised by the use of a delay circuit, fluid flow meters characterised by the use of redundant pairs of transducers, and a method of synchronisation of two transducers in a flow measuring apparatus for an open channel.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
  • G01P 5/24 - Measuring speed of fluids, e.g. of air streamMeasuring speed of bodies relative to fluids, e.g. of ship, of aircraft by measuring the direct influence of the streaming fluid on the properties of a detecting acoustical wave
  • G12B 9/00 - Housing or supporting of instruments or other apparatus
  • E02B 7/26 - Vertical-lift gates
  • E02B 7/40 - Swinging or turning gates
  • E02B 13/02 - Closures for irrigation conduits

67.

UNDERSHOT SLUICE GATE

      
Application Number AU2010000115
Publication Number 2010/088731
Status In Force
Filing Date 2010-02-05
Publication Date 2010-08-12
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David, John
  • Pearson, Damien

Abstract

The invention provides an undershot sluice gate (17) to control flow of liquid through an open channel (10). The gate (17) includes a gate leaf (18) adapted to be raised and lowered by a control means (22) to allow flow of liquid along open channel (10). Gate leaf (18) has at least a pair of opposing liquid level sensors (44, 46) on, or in, gate leaf (18) to provide measurement of liquid level upstream and downstream of gate leaf (18). The sensors (44, 46) are located at a predetermined distance from the lowermost edge of gate leaf (18) to allow said measurements without disturbance from the fluid flow profile resulting from movement of liquid beneath the lowermost edge of gate leaf (18).

IPC Classes  ?

68.

RUBICON WATER

      
Application Number 1033229
Status Registered
Filing Date 2010-02-03
Registration Date 2010-02-03
Owner Rubicon Research PTY LTD (Australia)
NICE Classes  ?
  • 06 - Common metals and ores; objects made of metal
  • 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
  • 11 - Environmental control apparatus
  • 19 - Non-metallic building materials
  • 39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
  • 42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design

Goods & Services

Metal gates for controlling, permitting or stopping water flow. Measuring, signalling and supervision equipment; measuring, signalling and supervision equipment for management of water flows and levels, including electronic controls and computer software used for managing and remotely monitoring water flows and levels in pipes, channels and aqueducts; control and data acquisition equipment; control and data acquisition systems for remotely monitoring and controlling equipment in the field; computer software, including computer software for scheduling customer orders, computer software for communications networks, computer software for lodgement and modification of orders, computer software for planner supervision and management, computer software for database management and computer software for behavioural modelling; equipment for measuring and monitoring water flow and water levels; flow meters; electronic meters for measuring and monitoring water flows and levels; communications equipment; equipment and apparatus for communications and communications networks; electronic interfaces for connecting to communications networks and transmitting data used in managing water flows and levels; all of the foregoing being for management or monitoring of water flows and levels. Water flow regulation control equipment; equipment for regulating water flow; regulating accessories for water apparatus, pipes, channels and aqueducts; water flow regulation control systems comprised of metal gates, electronic meters, electronic monitors and computer software for connecting to communications networks to allow for remote measuring, monitoring and regulating water flows and pipes, channels and aqueducts. Non-metal gates for controlling, permitting or stopping water flow. Water supply management services. Computer software design and computer programming, including computer software design and computer programming in respect of water supply, water monitoring and water management; water supply control services including the monitoring and control of water flow volume, the measurement of water flow, and the monitoring and measuring of water supply levels.

69.

ULTRASONIC LEVEL DETECTION DEVICE WITH FLARED SECTION FOR REDUCED DISTORTION

      
Application Number AU2007001839
Publication Number 2008/064421
Status In Force
Filing Date 2007-11-28
Publication Date 2008-06-05
Owner RUBICON RESEARCH PTY LTD (Australia)
Inventor
  • Aughton, David
  • Pearson, Damien
  • Bish, Gordon

Abstract

The invention provides a level detection device (32) having a tube (34) which, in use, contains a material (14) for which its level in the tube (34) is to be measured. An ultrasonic transducer (10) is provided at one end of tube (34) for emitting an acoustic waveform that reflects off the surface of the level and returns to the ultrasonic transducer (10) to allow computation of the level from the time periods of the emitted and reflected acoustic waveforms. A flared section (22) within tube (34 ) diverges from adjacent ultrasonic transducer (10) towards the inside wall of tube (34) above the level, whereby, in use, the measured reflected waveform has substantially reduced signal distortion due to flare (22).

IPC Classes  ?

70.

RUBICON

      
Serial Number 77348491
Status Registered
Filing Date 2007-12-10
Registration Date 2009-11-24
Owner Rubicon Research Pty Ltd (Australia)
NICE Classes  ?
  • 09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
  • 11 - Environmental control apparatus
  • 42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design

Goods & Services

Measuring, signaling and supervision equipment for management of water flows and levels, comprised of electronic controls and computer software used for managing and remotely monitoring water flows and levels in pipes, channels and aqueducts, namely, electronic meters for measuring and monitoring water flows and levels; computer software used for data acquisition from electronic meters, computer software used for managing water flows and levels; computer software used for scheduling customer orders, computer software used for connecting to communications networks, computer software use for lodging and modifying customer orders, computer software used for supervising planners and managers, computer software used for database management and modeling; and electronic interfaces for connecting to communications networks and transmitting data used in managing water flows and levels; electronic meters, electronic monitors and computer software for connecting to communications networks to allow remote measuring, monitoring and regulating water flows and metal gates in pipes, channels and aqueducts all sold as component parts of water flow regulation control systems Water flow regulators for regulating water flow in pipes, channels and aqueducts Water supply management and control services, namely, the monitoring and control of water flow volume, the measurement of water flow, and the monitoring and measuring of water supply levels