73504mmWave Device for Sewer MonitoringClosedStudyInnovate UKThe project goal is to create an electronic sensor device, to be built into a sewer access cover, that is able to transmit and receive Extreme High Frequency (EHF) radio signals, known as Millimetre Wave (mmWave). This will allow it to measure the depth and flow of the foul-water beneath, along with other conditions of the access chamber, in order to predict and thus prevent foul-water overflows in a variety of sewer environments. This will (i) cut sewer maintenance costs, and regulatory penalties, (ii) ensure greater infrastructure safety, (iii) avert property damage and public disruption, and (iv) reduce environmental damage. mmWave/EHF frequencies are increasingly being utilised in a variety of applications, but they have not thus far been applied in the context of closed sewer networks. Our design would thus be the first smart-city initiative of its kind and offers a 'step change' from current state of the art technologies. Sewer networks are regularly prone to overflow. This is generally due to excess water (from heavy rainfall) or blockage (caused by obstructing bodies, such as natural debris or human-generated waste). At present, overflow is predominantly addressed post-event, i.e. when an overflow has already occurred and is reported by members of the public. Overflow prevention is both costly and manual, being dependent on routine inspection rounds. Our project will yield a new technology capable of identifying a prospective overflow _before_ it occurs. The mmWave sensor will detect changes in water levels, as well as indicative change (or halting) of flow rate. Data will be transmitted using the company's existing ultra-low power, cellular-based IoT electronics to the sewer operator via an online dashboard or data integration, alerting the operator of the impending overflow event and allowing the operator to promptly attend to the blockage _prior to_ the overflow. Even in cases of heavy rain causing 'hydraulic overload', the mmWave sewer sensor device will alert the operator to areas in the sewer network needing the most imminent attention, improving response capabilities and reducing the overall severity of the event. Our project will not only help water companies develop more efficient maintenance programmes and avoid large regulatory fines, but will also have a profound impact on communities: improving safety, preventing property damage, and protecting watercourses from contamination.