Patent Description:
Roof construction includes a roof substructure that is typically not a waterproof that is subsequently covered by another material, such as a roofing membrane, that provides the waterproof integrity to the roof. Roof drains may be positioned at locations across the roof to drain water from the roof to an offsite location such as a storm sewer or retention pond. Since the roof drain must connect to a stormwater management system, penetrations through the roofing membrane are needed at each roof drain. In addition, seams/overlaps in the roofing membrane, cables, sky windows, ventilation shafts, and damage to the roofing membrane can also result in penetrations through the roofing membrane.

These penetrations become potential pathways for the ingress of water. If a roof drain becomes plugged with debris or detritus, water may collect or pond around the drain. This water retention may lead to several, potentially catastrophic, situations. First, the water increases the loading on the roof due to the weight of the retained water. Second, the standing water may seep between the roofing membrane and the roof structure, potentially causing rot on wood framed roof structures, fungus and associated health issues, and corrosion on metal framed roof structures thereby weakening the roof structure. Third, leakage may occur into the interior space proximate the roof drain causing damage to interior appointments. Finally, if the roof structure is sufficiently weakened by ingress of water, the extra load presented by the ponding water about a roof drain can cause a structural failure of the roof. A general lack of regular access to the roof compounds the issue as plugged roof drains may go unnoticed for quite some time.

<CIT> discloses a system and method for monitoring water level on a roof, the system comprising a drain monitor that includes a base for attaching to the roof, a riser attached to the base and projecting from the roof, a water level sensor attached to the riser for measuring water level on the roof, and a communication system positioned on the riser for transmitting measurement data received from the water level sensor.

According to the invention there is provided a roof drain gateway, a roof drain system and a non-transitory storage medium as defined by the appended claims.

Features and advantages of various embodiments of the claimed subject matter will become apparent as the following Detailed Description proceeds, and upon reference to the Drawings, wherein like numerals designate like parts, and in which:.

Although the following Detailed Description will proceed with reference being made to illustrative embodiments, many alternatives, modifications, and variations thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

As used herein, a roofing membrane includes any elastic or inelastic material used to provide waterproof integrity to a roof. Typically, such roofing membranes are disposed proximate a roof structure. Thus, as used herein, the top or upper surface of the roofing membrane should be considered to include all of the roofing membrane exposed or potentially exposed to atmospheric precipitation and/or water contact from other sources such as hoses and the like. As used herein, the bottom or lower surface of the roofing membrane should be considered to include all of the roofing membrane transversely opposite the top or upper surface of the roofing membrane and disposed proximate an underlying roof structure or substructure.

As used herein, a "short-range wireless communication protocol" includes any current or future developed, commercial or proprietary communications protocol capable of facilitating communication between devices such as an intelligent roof drain system and a gateway device. As used herein, such short-range wireless communication protocols are protocols intended for use within a single building or within a single facility and typically will have a range of about <NUM> miles or less from source to destination.

As used herein, a "long-range wireless communication protocol" includes any current or future developed, commercial or proprietary communications protocol capable of facilitating communication between devices such as a gateway device and a building management system. As used herein, such long-range wireless communication protocols are protocols intended for use worldwide, for example via the Internet, and typically will have a range greater than three miles from source to destination.

<FIG> is a schematic overview that depicts an illustrative intelligent roof drain system <NUM> consistent with at least one example of the present disclosure. The intelligent roof drain system <NUM> includes roof drains <NUM>, with one or more detectors <NUM>, and one or more gateways <NUM>. For simplicity, one roof drain <NUM>, one detector <NUM>, and one gateway <NUM> is shown, but the intelligent roof drain system <NUM> will include two or more roof drains <NUM>, two or more detectors <NUM>, and/or two or more gateways <NUM>. Each of the roof drains <NUM> may be disposed to form a regular or irregular pattern of roof drains <NUM> on the roof <NUM> of a building <NUM> and is fluidly coupled to one or more drainage conduits (not shown for clarity) to allow water to drain from the roof <NUM>. At least one detector 104A is associated with a particular drain 102A.

Each of the detectors <NUM> includes water seepage detection circuitry to generally monitor for seepage or leakage beneath a roofing membrane <NUM> disposed on, about, or across at least a portion of the roof <NUM>. Beneficially, the water seepage detection circuity included in the detector <NUM> may be disposed beneath the roofing membrane <NUM> and may be positioned to wirelessly couple with the detector <NUM> to both receive power from the detector <NUM> and communicate a leakage or seepage event to the detector <NUM>.

The one or more detectors <NUM> include water level detection circuitry to monitor standing or flowing water level on top of the roofing membrane <NUM>. The detector <NUM> may additionally include transmitter circuitry to transmit at least one output signal <NUM> to one or more of the gateways <NUM> that includes information indicative of at least one of: a water seepage condition or event beneath the roofing membrane <NUM> and/or an abnormal standing or flowing water condition or event on the roofing membrane <NUM>.

At least some of the gateways <NUM> may include transceiver circuitry to receive a respective output signals <NUM> generated by each of some or all of the detectors <NUM>. In embodiments, at least some of the gateways <NUM> may be configured to communicate with a building management system <NUM> (via one or more wired communications (e.g., Modbus RTU) and/or wireless communications). The building management system <NUM> may be part of and/or associated with, for example, a building security system, an insurance company, a building management company, a cloud service or the like. The gateway <NUM> and/or the building management system <NUM> is configured to generate a notification <NUM> upon detection of an abnormal condition (e.g., but not limited to, detection of a water leak beneath the roofing membrane <NUM>, abnormally high drain water levels, low battery power, exceeding maximum or minimum temperatures, icing events, thawing events, etc.). The notification <NUM> may include but is not limited to, an electromagnetic signal, an optical signal, an auditory alarm, a visual alarm, a text message, an email, a phone call, an alert transmitted via one or more networks such as the Internet, or the like. The roof drain system <NUM> may be particularly useful on flat roofs, however, it should be appreciated that the roof drain system <NUM> may be used in any roofing application using an underlayment or similar sealing membrane (e.g., but not limited to, a roofing membrane) with roof drains.

<FIG> depicts a perspective view of an illustrative roof drain system <NUM> consistent with at least one example of the present disclosure For simplicity, one roof drain <NUM>, one detector <NUM>, and one gateway <NUM> is shown, but the intelligent roof drain system <NUM> in fact includes two or more roof drains <NUM>, with correspondingly two or more detectors <NUM>, and/or two or more gateways <NUM>. <FIG> depicts a cross-sectional elevation of an illustrative roof drain system <NUM> installation on a roof <NUM> that includes a roofing membrane <NUM> Turning to <FIG> and <FIG>, the roof drain <NUM> allows water collecting on and/or flowing across the roof <NUM> of the building <NUM> to drain off of the roof <NUM> to a retention pond, storm sewer system, or similar stormwater collection and/or retention system. The roof drain <NUM> includes a drain plate <NUM>, one or more drain openings <NUM>, and one or more drain caps <NUM>. The drain plate <NUM> may be configured to be secured to the roof <NUM> of the building <NUM>, for example, to a roof substructure <NUM> (such as a wood, metal, concrete, insulation, or composite substructure) disposed beneath the roofing membrane <NUM>. The drain plate <NUM> may include an upper surface <NUM> and a generally oppositely disposed lower surface <NUM>. As used herein, the upper surface <NUM> of the drain plate <NUM> refers to the surface of the drain plate <NUM> disposed proximate the roofing membrane <NUM> and the lower surface <NUM> of the drain plate <NUM> refers to the surface of the drain plate <NUM> disposed proximate the roof substructure <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the drain plate <NUM> may include a generally planar member; however, it should be appreciated that one or more portions of the drain plate <NUM> may have a concaved and/or convex shape. For example, at least a portion of the drain plate <NUM> may have a concave upper surface <NUM> to facilitate the flow of water towards the drain opening <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, in embodiments, one or more water seepage detection modules <NUM> may be disposed proximate the upper surface <NUM> of the drain plate <NUM>. The water seepage detection module <NUM> may be flush with the drain plate/flange <NUM>. In embodiments, the water seepage detection module <NUM> may include a generally planar structure having an upper or first surface and a transversely opposed lower, or second surface. A secondary coil, such as an antenna system <NUM>, is disposed in, on, or about the first surface of the water seepage detection module <NUM>. Water seepage detection circuitry <NUM> and one or more water seepage sensors <NUM> may be disposed in, on, or about the second surface of the water seepage detection module <NUM>. In embodiments, one or more waterproof layers or coatings may be applied to the second surface of the water seepage detection module <NUM>. In such embodiments the one or more seepage detection sensors <NUM> extend from the surface of the water seepage detection module <NUM> and may additionally extend partially or completely through an aperture <NUM> that penetrates the drain plate <NUM> such that the one or more seepage detection sensors <NUM> are disposed at or near the roof substructure <NUM>. The one or more seepage detection sensors <NUM> detect the presence of moisture and/or water (including, but not limited to, humidity) between the roof substructure <NUM> and the roofing membrane <NUM> (i.e., the presence of water or moisture beneath the roofing membrane <NUM> that may potentially cause damage to the underlying roof substructure <NUM>). In at least some embodiments, the water sensor apertures <NUM> extend completely through the aperture <NUM> formed in the drain plate <NUM> (e.g., from the upper surface <NUM> of the drain plate <NUM> to the lower surface <NUM> of the drain plate <NUM>).

The drain plate <NUM> includes a plurality of fastener openings 216A-216n (collectively, "fastener openings <NUM>"). Each of the fastener openings <NUM> accommodates the passage of one or more fasteners 316A-316n (screws, bolts, nails, rivets, etc.) and/or adhesives (mastic, etc.) to secure the drain plate <NUM> to the roofing substructure <NUM>. The drain plate <NUM> may extend outwardly from the drain opening <NUM> to provide a sufficiently large upper surface area for the roofing membrane <NUM> to seal against. The exact dimensions (e.g., length and width) of the drain plate <NUM> may therefore depend on the intended application. By way of a non-limiting example, the drain plate <NUM> may be approximately <NUM> inches wide by <NUM> inches (<NUM> inch =<NUM>) long, though this is just for illustrative purposes only, and the drain plate <NUM> may have any other size and/or shape known to those skilled in the art.

The drain opening <NUM> penetrates the drain plate <NUM>, extending through the upper surface <NUM> and the lower surface <NUM> of the drain plate <NUM>. In embodiments, such as depicted in <FIG>, a discharge outlet <NUM> may fluidly couple the drain opening <NUM> to a drain conduit <NUM>. In other embodiments, the drain opening <NUM> may directly fluidly couple (i.e., couple without the use of an intervening structure or device) to the drain conduit <NUM>. A drain cap <NUM> may extend at least partially around one or more of the drain openings <NUM>. The drain cap <NUM> may be configured to generally prevent larger objects such as leaves, rocks, animals, debris, etc. from clogging/blocking the roof drain <NUM>. The drain cap <NUM> may include one or more of smaller drain cap openings <NUM> that allow water to pass, but generally prevent larger objects, debris, or other detritus from passing. The drain cap openings <NUM> may be physically smaller than the drain opening <NUM>, and may be evenly or unevenly distributed around all or a portion of the external surface or perimeter of the drain cap <NUM>. In one example, the drain cap <NUM> may have a frustoconical shape extending upwardly away from the roof <NUM> such that the drain cap openings <NUM> are at least partially vertical; however, it should be appreciated that the drain cap <NUM> may be substantially flush with or recessed from the upper surface of the roof <NUM>.

The detection system <NUM> incorporates multiple components, including a monitoring module <NUM> and a water seepage detection module <NUM>. In embodiments, the monitoring module <NUM> includes control circuitry <NUM>, communications interface circuitry <NUM>, and power supply circuitry <NUM>. The monitoring module <NUM> may include a housing <NUM> or similar water-resistant and/or waterproof housing, such as a National Electric Manufacturer's Association NEMA <NUM>, NEMA 3R, NEMA <NUM>, NEMA <NUM>, NEMA 4X, or NEMA <NUM> rated enclosure. In embodiments, at least the control circuitry <NUM>, communications interface circuitry <NUM>, and power supply circuitry <NUM> may be disposed partially or completely within the housing.

The monitoring module <NUM> will additionally include water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> to continuously, intermittently, periodically, or aperiodically detect or determine the water level standing on or flowing across the roofing membrane <NUM>. The water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> may include one or more sensors, electrodes, and/or pins <NUM> that extend through and are exposed on an exterior surface of a housing disposed about all or a portion of the monitoring module <NUM>. In some embodiments, the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> may detect a high-water event when the water level standing on or flowing across the roofing membrane <NUM> exceeds a defined value. The water seepage detection module <NUM> includes the one or more water seepage sensors <NUM> and water seepage detection circuitry <NUM>. The one or more water seepage sensors <NUM> detect the presence of moisture and/or water between the roofing membrane <NUM> and the roof substructure <NUM>. The control circuitry <NUM> and the water seepage detection circuitry <NUM> each include antenna circuitry to enable at least the wireless transfer of power from the monitoring module <NUM> to the water seepage detection module <NUM> and the communication of data from the water seepage detection module <NUM> to the monitoring module <NUM>.

As depicted in <FIG>, the communications interface circuitry <NUM> generates one or more output signals <NUM> that may be communicated on a continuous, periodic, intermittent or event-driven basis to one or more gateways <NUM> and/or one or more building management systems <NUM>. In embodiments, the one or more output signals <NUM> may include one or more of: information indicative of a presence of water or moisture between the roofing membrane <NUM> and the roof substructure <NUM>; information indicative of the ambient temperature proximate the roof drain <NUM>; and/or information representative of a water level proximate the roof drain <NUM>. Thus, the detection system <NUM> beneficially provides an early indication of two potential issues with the roofing membrane <NUM> and/or roof drain <NUM> - first, a failure that permits water to enter between the roofing membrane <NUM> and the roof substructure <NUM>; and second, a failure of the roof drain <NUM> to provide proper drainage thereby allowing a water build-up on the roof <NUM>. Advantageously, the water seepage detection module <NUM> includes a secondary coil, such as an antenna system <NUM>, that wirelessly communicatively couples to a primary coil, such as an antenna system <NUM>, disposed in the monitoring module <NUM>, eliminating the need for a penetration through the roofing membrane <NUM> to facilitate communication between the monitoring module <NUM> and the water seepage detection module <NUM> and the transfer of power from the monitoring module <NUM> to the water seepage detection module <NUM>.

The control circuitry <NUM> receives the output signals generated by the water seepage detection circuitry <NUM>, the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM>, and/or the one or more temperature sensors <NUM>. In at least some embodiments, the control circuitry <NUM> causes a communication of one or more output signals <NUM> that may include: a unique identifier associated with the roof drain <NUM>; information indicative of a presence of water and/or moisture between the roofing membrane <NUM> and the roof substructure <NUM>; information indicative of elevated humidity in the roofing structure <NUM>; information representative of a water level proximate the roof drain <NUM>; and/or information representative of the ambient temperature proximate the roof drain <NUM>. In some embodiments, the one or more output signals <NUM> may include information and/or data indicative of a power level (e.g., output voltage) and/or remaining energy in the power supply circuitry <NUM> (e.g., % remaining capacity of an energy storage device such as a battery, supercapacitor, or ultracapacitor). In some embodiments, the control circuitry <NUM> may generate the one or more output signals <NUM> on a continuous basis. In other embodiments, the control circuitry <NUM> may generate or cause the generation of the one or more output signals <NUM> on an intermittent or aperiodic basis. In yet other embodiments, the control circuitry <NUM> may generate or cause the generation of the one or more output signals <NUM> on a periodic basis, such as every <NUM> seconds, <NUM> seconds, <NUM> minute, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> hours, <NUM> hours, etc. In further embodiments, the control circuitry <NUM> may generate or cause the generation of the one or more output signals <NUM> based on events and/or value changes (such as, but not limited to, sending updates if temperature changes more than a predetermined amount). The control circuitry may generate one or more output signals <NUM> that include additional information such as: the current level of an energy storage device included in the power supply circuitry <NUM>, system maintenance reminders, energy storage device replacement reminders, information indicative of a water seepage detection circuitry <NUM> failure, alarms, alerts, notifications, etc..

The control circuitry <NUM> may include one or more processor-based devices. Example processor-based devices include but are not limited to: one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs); one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs); one or more digital signal processors (DSPs); one or more reduced instruction set computers (RISCs); one or more microprocessors, one or more controllers/microcontrollers, or similar. The control circuitry <NUM> includes one or more data storage circuitry that include but are not limited to: electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) circuitry, NAND flash memory circuitry, read only memory (ROM) circuitry, and similar. In embodiments, the data storage circuitry may store or otherwise retain an operating system, programming, applications, and/or instruction sets executable by the control circuitry <NUM>. In some implementations, the control circuitry <NUM> may cause the storage of one or more measured parameters (water seepage, water level, temperature, power level, etc.) in a non-transitory storage circuitry. In such implementations, the control circuitry <NUM> may send data associated with a defined time period as a burst data transmission via the one or more output signals <NUM>.

In embodiments, the control circuitry <NUM> operably couples to an antenna system <NUM>. The antenna system <NUM> may include any number and/or combination of systems, devices, components, or assemblies capable of transferring energy from the power supply circuitry <NUM> to the water seepage detection module <NUM> via the antenna system <NUM> disposed in the water seepage detection module <NUM>. Further, the antenna system <NUM> may include any number and/or combination of systems, devices, components, or assemblies capable of unidirectionally or bidirectionally communicating one or more signals containing information indicative of at least one of: water seepage, water level, and/or temperature between the monitoring module <NUM> and the water seepage detection module <NUM>. The antenna system <NUM> may be used to transfer power from the monitoring module <NUM> to the water seepage detection module <NUM>. For example, the control circuitry <NUM> may transfer power, via inductive coupling and/or resonant inductive coupling, from the power supply circuitry <NUM> to the water seepage detection module <NUM> via the antenna system <NUM>. The antenna system <NUM> may also support unidirectional or bidirectional communication between the monitoring module <NUM> and the water seepage detection module <NUM>. In embodiments, the antenna system <NUM> includes a single antenna used to transfer power and support communications between the monitoring module <NUM> and the water seepage detection module <NUM>. In other embodiments, the antenna system <NUM> includes a plurality of antennas, at least a first of which may be used to transfer power from the monitoring module <NUM> to the water seepage detection module <NUM> and at least a second of which may be used to communicate between the monitoring module <NUM> and the water seepage detection module <NUM>.

The monitoring module <NUM> includes communications interface circuitry <NUM>. The communications interface circuitry <NUM> may include one or more wired communications interfaces (universal serial bus (USB), IEEE <NUM> (Ethernet), etc.), one or more wireless communications interfaces (IEEE <NUM> (WiFi), Bluetooth®, ZigBee, Cellular GSM, Cellular CDMA, etc.), or any combination thereof. The communications interface circuitry <NUM> communicates information from the monitoring module <NUM> to one or more external locations, for example to one or more gateway devices <NUM>. The one or more gateway devices <NUM> may then communicate with one or more local or remote building management systems <NUM>, for example via a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), metropolitan area network (MAN), or a worldwide area network (WWAN - the Internet). In at least some implementations, the control circuitry <NUM> may cause the communication via the communications interface circuitry <NUM> of a notification containing information indicative of an event occurrence such as detected water seepage beneath the roofing membrane <NUM>; a high-water level condition proximate a roof drain <NUM>; and/or potential freezing or thawing conditions that may impact the ability of the roof drain <NUM> to remove water from the roof <NUM>.

The monitoring module <NUM> further includes power supply circuitry <NUM>. The power supply circuitry <NUM> provides power to system components such as the control circuitry <NUM> and the water seepage detection module <NUM> via an inductive coupling between antenna system <NUM> and antenna system <NUM>. In some embodiments, the power supply circuitry <NUM> may include one or more energy storage devices. Non-limiting examples of such energy storage devices include: one or more supercapacitors, one or more ultracapacitors, one or more primary (i.e., non-rechargeable) batteries, one or more secondary (i.e., rechargeable) batteries, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the power supply circuitry <NUM> may include conditioning circuitry, filtering circuitry, and/or conversion circuitry to convert the received power to a lower voltage and/or waveform suitable for use by the control circuitry <NUM> and/or the water seepage detection module <NUM>. In some embodiments, the power supply circuitry <NUM> may include circuitry to receive power from an electrical distribution grid and convert the received power to a lower voltage and/or waveform suitable for use by the control circuitry <NUM> and/or the water seepage detection module <NUM>. In some embodiments, the power supply circuitry <NUM> may include one or more energy collection devices, such as one or more solar cells, that collect energy and store the collected energy in an energy storage device, such as a secondary storage cell. In at least some embodiments, the power supply circuitry <NUM> may communicate power system status (e.g., voltage level or remaining capacity of an energy storage device) to the control circuitry <NUM>. Upon detecting an abnormal event that may potentially compromise the operation or accuracy of the roof drain system <NUM>, the control circuitry <NUM> may generate a notification that is communicated to the building management system <NUM> via the one or more gateways <NUM>.

The monitoring module <NUM> additionally includes water level monitoring circuitry <NUM>. In some embodiments, the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> may include any number and/or combination of devices, systems, components, or assemblies capable of detecting the presence of a liquid, such as water, having a defined depth. Non-limiting examples of such detection devices include float switches, contact switches, conductivity switches, and similar. In other embodiments, the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> may include any number and/or combination of devices, systems, components, or assemblies capable of providing a continuous, intermittent, periodic, or aperiodic output indicative of a water level proximate the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM>. Non-limiting examples of such monitoring devices include: ultrasonic level measurement devices, radar level measurement devices, capacitance probe level measurement devices, and similar. The water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> monitors the standing (i.e., static) water level and/or the flowing water level at a location proximate the roof drain <NUM>. Such monitoring may provide an early indication of a potential issue with the roof drain. For example, such monitoring may beneficially alert to potential plugging of the roof drain with debris prior to the roof drain becoming completely plugged with debris or detritus.

In embodiments, the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> may communicate information and/or data representative of the water level proximate the roof drain <NUM> to the control circuitry <NUM> on a continuous, intermittent, periodic, or event driven basis. In embodiments, the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> may include one or more point level detectors (e.g., reed switches, floats, electrical contacts) having at least one predetermined depth setpoint such that the control circuitry <NUM> is notified when the water proximate the roof drain <NUM> reaches the at least one predetermined depth. For example, the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> may generate a notification or alert output when the water level proximate the roof drain reaches a predetermined level of about: <NUM> inches or greater, <NUM> inches or greater, <NUM> inch or greater, <NUM> inches or greater, or <NUM> inches or greater. In other embodiments, the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> may generate a output that provides the control circuitry with a continuous, intermittent, periodic, or aperiodic indication of the water level proximate the roof drain <NUM>. In embodiments, one or more rain or similar water detectors may be used to activate the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM>, thereby placing the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> in a STANDBY or similar low-energy consumption state when no atmospheric moisture is present and/or no moisture is present proximate the monitoring module <NUM>. In at least some embodiments, the control circuitry <NUM> may include one or more temporal dead band features such that a detected high water event must exist for a defined interval prior to communicating the notification to the building management system <NUM> via the one or more gateways <NUM>. For example, the control circuitry <NUM> may include a temporal deadband of about: <NUM> seconds, <NUM> minute, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes or <NUM> minutes prior to communicating the notification to the building management system <NUM> via the one or more gateways <NUM>.

The drain water level signal may be representative of the level of drain water on the roof <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the water level may not correlate to the exact amount of water present on the roof <NUM>, but rather may represent the level of water relative to the position of the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM>.

The monitoring module <NUM> may include one or more ambient temperature sensors <NUM> to measure the ambient temperature proximate the roof drain <NUM>. Such information may beneficially provide notice of freezing or icing conditions that alter or impact the performance of the roof drain <NUM>. The one or more temperature sensors <NUM> may include any number and/or combination of devices, systems, components, or assemblies capable of generating one or more output signals indicative of an ambient or atmospheric temperature proximate the roof drain <NUM>. Example temperature sensors include but are not limited to one or more thermocouples, one or more resistive thermal devices (RTDs); and similar. In embodiments, the one or more temperature sensors <NUM> may communicate an output signal indicative of the ambient temperature to the control circuitry <NUM>. The monitoring module <NUM> may include one or more internal moisture sensors inside the enclosure of the monitoring module <NUM>.

The water seepage detection module <NUM> includes one or more water seepage sensors <NUM>, the antenna system <NUM>, and water seepage detection circuitry <NUM>. The one or more water seepage sensors <NUM> may include any number and/or combination of systems, devices, components, or assemblies capable of detecting the presence of an electrically conductive fluid, such as water, between the roofing membrane <NUM> and the roof substructure <NUM> and/or elevated moisture level in substructure <NUM>. In embodiments, the one or more water seepage sensors <NUM> may include a plurality of physically separated contacts that detect the presence of the electrically conductive fluid by measuring the resistance or conductivity between the physically separated contacts. The one or more water seepage sensors <NUM> receive power from the power supply circuitry <NUM> via the antenna system <NUM> in the monitoring module <NUM> and the antenna system <NUM> in the water seepage detection module <NUM>. In embodiments, the one or more water seepage sensors <NUM> may project or extend from the lower surface of the water seepage detection module <NUM>. In embodiments, the one or more water seepage sensors <NUM> may extend partially or completely through a water sensor aperture <NUM> through the drain plate <NUM>. In embodiments, the drain plate <NUM> may include one or more antenna alignment features <NUM> useful for aligning the monitoring module <NUM> and the water seepage detection module <NUM> such that the antenna system <NUM> in the monitoring module <NUM> is in proper alignment with the antenna system <NUM> in the water seepage detection module <NUM>. The one or more alignment features may include but are not limited to one or more raised surface features, one or more recessed surface features, one or more apertures, one or more threaded apertures to accept the insertion of a threaded fastener, or combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the monitoring module <NUM> may include one or more human perceptible indicators (audible, visual, tactile, etc.) to indicate when the monitoring module antenna system <NUM> is aligned with the water seepage detection module antenna system <NUM>.

In embodiments, the water seepage detection circuitry <NUM> operably couples to an antenna system <NUM>. The antenna system <NUM> may include any number and/or combination of systems, devices, components, or assemblies capable of receiving energy from the power supply circuitry <NUM> in the monitoring module <NUM>. Further, the antenna system <NUM> may include any number and/or combination of systems, devices, components, or assemblies capable of unidirectionally or bidirectionally communicating one or more signals containing information indicative of at least one of: water seepage, water level, and/or temperature between the water seepage detection module <NUM> and the monitoring module <NUM>. In embodiments, the control circuitry <NUM> may cause the transfer of power, via inductive coupling, from the power supply circuitry <NUM> to the water seepage detection module <NUM> via the antenna system <NUM>. The antenna system <NUM> may also support unidirectional or bidirectional communication between the water seepage detection module <NUM> and the monitoring module <NUM>. In embodiments, the antenna system <NUM> includes a single antenna used to receive power and support communications between the water seepage detection module <NUM> and the monitoring module <NUM>. In other embodiments, the antenna system <NUM> includes a plurality of antennas, at least a first of which may be used to receive power from the monitoring module <NUM> and at least a second of which may be used to communicate between the water seepage detection module <NUM> and the monitoring module <NUM>. Beneficially, the use of wireless power transfer and wireless communications between the monitoring module <NUM> and the water seepage detection module eliminates the need for a penetration through the roofing membrane <NUM> thereby reducing or even eliminating a potential leakage point through the roofing membrane <NUM>.

The water seepage detection circuitry <NUM> includes any number and/or combination of devices, systems, components, and/or assemblies capable of receiving one or more signals from the one or more water seepage sensors <NUM> and communicating an output signal containing information indicative of a water seepage status to the control circuitry <NUM> via the antenna system <NUM> (such as, but not limited to, inductive signal transfer). In some embodiments, the water seepage detection circuitry <NUM> may cause the communication of the water seepage status output signal on a continuous basis. In other embodiments, the water seepage detection circuitry <NUM> may cause the communication of the water seepage status output signal to the control circuitry <NUM> on an intermittent or aperiodic basis. In yet other embodiments, the water seepage detection circuitry <NUM> may cause the communication of the water seepage status output signal to the control circuitry <NUM> on a periodic basis, such as every <NUM> seconds, <NUM> seconds, <NUM> minute, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> minutes, <NUM> hours, <NUM> hours, etc. In further embodiments, , the water seepage detection circuitry <NUM> may cause the communication of the water seepage status output signal to the control circuitry <NUM> based on predetermined events (e.g., temperature changes meeting/exceeding a threshold, rain events, snow events, wind events, or the like).

The water seepage detection circuitry <NUM> may include type of circuity known to those skilled in the art. For example, the water seepage detection circuitry <NUM> may one or more processor-based devices and/or resistive measurements. Example processor-based devices include but are not limited to: one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs); one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs); one or more digital signal processors (DSPs); one or more reduced instruction set computers (RISCs); one or more microprocessors, one or more controllers/microcontrollers, or similar. The water seepage detection circuitry <NUM> includes one or more data storage circuitry that include but are not limited to: electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) circuitry, NAND flash memory circuitry, read only memory (ROM) circuitry, and similar. In embodiments, the data storage circuitry may store or otherwise retain an operating system, programming, applications, and/or instruction sets executable by the water seepage detection circuitry <NUM>. In some implementations, the water seepage detection circuitry <NUM> may cause the storage of one or more measured parameters (e.g., water seepage information, time/date information, etc.) in a non-transitory storage circuitry. In such implementations, the water seepage detection circuitry <NUM> may send data associated with a defined time interval as a burst data transmission to the control circuitry <NUM> via the antenna system <NUM>.

In embodiments, one or more positioning members <NUM> may locate the drain cap <NUM> relative to the monitoring module <NUM>. In at least one example, the positioning members <NUM> may include magnetic locators in which the position of the drain cap <NUM> relative to the monitoring module <NUM> is based on one or more magnets, visual markers, or the like. Alternatively (or in addition), the positioning members <NUM> may physically couple the drain cap <NUM> to the monitoring module <NUM>. In any event, the one or more positioning members <NUM> beneficially position the monitoring module <NUM> in a location such that the one or more antennas <NUM> in the monitoring module <NUM> align with the one or more antennas <NUM> in the water seepage detection module <NUM>. Aligning the one or more antennas <NUM> in the monitoring module <NUM> align with the one or more antennas <NUM> in the water seepage detection module <NUM> beneficially improves signal strength and power transfer efficiency while minimizing the introduction of noise into signals communicated between the monitoring module <NUM> and the water seepage detection module <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view depicting the underside or bottom of the roof drain system <NUM> depicted in <FIG> showing an exemplary positioning of the water seepage detection module <NUM> with respect to the monitoring module <NUM> such that the monitoring module antenna system <NUM> is aligned with the water seepage detection module antenna system <NUM>, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. The water seepage detection module <NUM> is disposed proximate the upper surface <NUM> of the drain plate <NUM>. The roofing membrane <NUM> covers the water seepage detection module <NUM> and the monitoring module <NUM> is disposed above the roofing membrane <NUM> proximate the water seepage detection module <NUM> with the monitoring module antenna system <NUM> aligned with the water seepage detection module antenna system <NUM>. As depicted in <FIG>, the water seepage sensors <NUM> pass at least partially through the water sensor aperture <NUM> formed through the drain plate <NUM>. In embodiments, the upper surface <NUM> of the drain plate <NUM> may include one or more surface features (one or more raised features, one or more recessed features, one or more apertures, one or more detents, etc.) to assist locating the water seepage detection module <NUM> with respect to the water sensor aperture <NUM>. In embodiments, the water seepage sensors <NUM> may extend only partially through the thickness of the water sensor aperture <NUM>. In other embodiments, the water seepage sensors <NUM> may be positioned even with the lower surface <NUM> of the drain plate <NUM>. In yet other embodiments, the water seepage sensors <NUM> may extend beyond the lower surface <NUM> of the drain plate <NUM> and/or may be placed outside the perimeter of the drain plate <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view that depicts the physical positioning of the water seepage detection module <NUM> with respect to the monitoring module <NUM> such that the monitoring module antenna system <NUM> is physically aligned with the water seepage detection module antenna system <NUM>, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. In embodiments, the physical alignment of the monitoring module antenna system <NUM> with the water seepage detection module antenna system <NUM> beneficially increases power transfer from the power supply circuitry <NUM> to the water seepage detection module <NUM>. In embodiments, the physical alignment of the monitoring module antenna system <NUM> with the water seepage detection module antenna system <NUM> beneficially increases the data transmission bandwidth, reduces the data error rate, and/or reduces noise in the data transmission between the water seepage detection module <NUM> and the monitoring module <NUM>. In embodiments, the roofing membrane <NUM> is disposed between the water seepage detection module <NUM> and the monitoring module <NUM>, making it difficult to visually observe the positioning of the monitoring module <NUM> with respect to the water seepage detection module <NUM>. In embodiments, to assist in properly positioning the monitoring module <NUM> with respect to the water seepage detection module <NUM>, one or more surface features may be disposed in, on, about, or across the surface of the drain plate <NUM> to assist in a uniform positioning of the water seepage detection module <NUM> with respect to the drain plate <NUM>. In addition, the one or more positioning members <NUM> may facilitate the uniform positioning of the the monitoring module <NUM> with respect to the water seepage detection module <NUM> such that the water seepage detection module antenna system <NUM> aligns with the monitoring module antenna system <NUM>.

<FIG> is an upper perspective view of another illustrative roof drain system <NUM> that includes a plurality of drain cap fasteners 602A-602n (collectively, "drain cap fasteners <NUM>") passing through a flange <NUM> disposed at least partially about the periphery of the drain cap <NUM>, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. For simplicity, one roof drain is shown, but the intelligent roof drain system <NUM> in fact includes two or more roof drains, with correspondingly two or more detectors and one or more gateways.

As depicted in <FIG>, in at least some embodiments, a flange <NUM> may extend from the drain cap <NUM> and may be physically coupled to the drain plate <NUM> using a plurality of drain cap fasteners <NUM>. In addition, a positioning member <NUM> may extend from the flange <NUM> and may physically couple to the monitoring module <NUM> thereby fixing the position of the monitoring module <NUM> with respect to the roof drain <NUM>. In embodiments, the drain cap fasteners <NUM> may include one or more removable fasteners, such as one or more threaded studs and corresponding nuts or wingnuts. In some embodiments, some or all of the drain cap fasteners <NUM> may pass through slots or similar elongated or tapered apertures to permit a fine adjustment of the flange <NUM> with respect to the drain opening in the roof <NUM>.

<FIG> is a partial top plan view that depicts an illustrative roof drain system <NUM> depicting an example monitoring module <NUM> disposed proximate an example water seepage detection module <NUM> (the roofing membrane <NUM> has been omitted for clarity and to more clearly demonstrate the relationship between the monitoring module <NUM> and the water seepage detection module <NUM>), in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. For simplicity, one roof drain is shown, but the intelligent roof drain system <NUM> in fact includes two or more roof drains, with correspondingly two or more detectors and one or more gateways.

<FIG> is a partial bottom view of the illustrative roof drain system <NUM> of <FIG> that depicts the positioning of the water seepage detection module <NUM> with respect to the water sensor aperture <NUM>, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. <FIG> is a close-up top perspective view of the water seepage detection module <NUM> with respect to the water sensor aperture <NUM>, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.

Referring first to <FIG>, the monitoring module <NUM> is disposed above and proximate the water seepage detection module <NUM> such that the monitoring module antenna system <NUM> is aligned with the water seepage detection module antenna system <NUM>. The water seepage detection module <NUM> is disposed proximate the water sensor aperture <NUM> formed in the drain plate <NUM> such that the water seepage sensors <NUM> are able to detect the presence of water or moisture between the roofing membrane <NUM> and the roof substructure <NUM>. In some embodiments, the water seepage sensors <NUM> may contact the roof substructure <NUM>. In some embodiments, the water seepage sensors <NUM> are disposed close to, but not in contact with, the roof substructure <NUM> such that a gap exists between the water seepage sensors <NUM> and the roof substructure <NUM>. For example, the water seepage sensors <NUM> may be disposed such that a gap of about: <NUM> inches (<NUM>/<NUM>"), <NUM> inches (<NUM>/<NUM>"), <NUM> inches (<NUM>/<NUM>"), <NUM> inches (<NUM>/<NUM>"), or <NUM> inches (<NUM>/<NUM>") inch, wherein an inch is about <NUM>, exists between the water seepage sensors <NUM> and the roof substructure <NUM>.

Referring next to <FIG> and <FIG>, the water seepage detection module <NUM> is disposed proximate the water sensor aperture <NUM> formed in the drain plate <NUM> and positioned such that the water seepage sensors <NUM> have an unobstructed path to the roof substructure <NUM>. As depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>, in some embodiments, the water sensor aperture <NUM> formed in the drain plate <NUM> may be larger in width than the corresponding width of the water seepage detection module <NUM>. In other embodiments, not shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the water sensor aperture <NUM> formed in the drain plate <NUM> may be sufficiently large to allow the unobstructed passage of the water seepage sensors <NUM>, but smaller in width than the corresponding width of the water seepage detection module <NUM>. The water seepage detection module <NUM> may be physically coupled to the drain plate <NUM>. For example, the water seepage detection module <NUM> may be non-detachably attached to the drain plate <NUM> using one or more chemical adhesives, one or more thermally set adhesives, one or more electromagnetically set adhesives (e.g., UV set adhesives), one or more rivets, or combinations thereof. In another example, the water seepage detection module <NUM> may be detachably attached to the drain plate <NUM> using one or more removable fasteners, such as one or more threaded fasteners, one or more camlock connectors, one or more spiral cam fasteners (e.g., DZUS® fasteners) or combinations thereof.

<FIG> is a top perspective view that depicts an illustrative water seepage detection module <NUM>, the water seepage detection module antenna system <NUM> is visible on the upper surface of the water seepage detection module <NUM>, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. <FIG> is a bottom perspective view that depicts the lower surface of the illustrative water seepage detection module <NUM> depicted in <FIG>, the water seepage sensors <NUM> are visible extending from the lower surface of the illustrative water seepage detection module <NUM> also visible are a plurality of water seepage detection module locator features 802A-802n (collectively, "locator features <NUM>"), in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. The water seepage detection module <NUM> may be a sealed module that is positioned between the drain plate <NUM> and the roofing membrane <NUM>. In embodiments, the plurality of water seepage detection module locator features <NUM> may be disposed to form a unique pattern that corresponds to a plurality of complimentary features formed in the drain plate <NUM>. In embodiments, the plurality of water seepage detection module locator features <NUM> may permit the permanent or detachable attachment of the water seepage detection module <NUM> at a defined location and in a defined physical orientation with respect to the roof drain <NUM>. In at least one example, the water seepage detection module locator features <NUM> may include a plurality of raised features as depicted in <FIG> and the corresponding surface features in the drain plate <NUM> may include a plurality of detents.

<FIG> is a schematic diagram that depicts an illustrative system <NUM> in which a plurality of detectors 104A-104n (collectively, "detectors <NUM>") are communicatively coupled to a gateway <NUM> using a short-range wireless communication protocol and in which the gateway <NUM> communicatively coupled to a building management system <NUM>, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. The gateway <NUM> receives information and/or data from some or all of the detectors <NUM>. Logic circuitry communicatively coupled to the gateway <NUM> may use all or a portion of the information and/or data received from the detectors <NUM> and one or more algorithms to identify those detectors <NUM> coupled to a roof drain <NUM> that may be partially or completely blocked or otherwise obstructed by debris. The logic circuitry communicatively coupled to the gateway <NUM> may use all or a portion of the information and/or data received from the detectors <NUM> and one or more algorithms to identify those detectors <NUM> in which the one or more sensors, electrodes, and/or pins <NUM> communicatively coupled to the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> in the detector <NUM> has failed, for example by becoming partially or completely blocked or otherwise obstructed by debris (leaves, paper, plastic, etc.) leading to inaccurate water level readings proximate the roof drain <NUM>.

As depicted in <FIG>, each gateway <NUM> provides an interface between the detectors <NUM> and the building management system <NUM>. In at least some embodiments, the building management system <NUM> may be disposed in a location remote from the gateway <NUM> and one or more wired and/or wireless networks <NUM> may be used to communicatively couple the gateway <NUM> to the building management system <NUM> using one or more long-range wireless communication protocols. The one or more networks <NUM> may include any number and/or combination of networks. Example networks include one or more local area networks (LANs), one or more wireless local area networks (WLANs) one or more wide area networks (WANs), one or more worldwide area networks (WWAN - the Internet), or combinations thereof. Communication between the gateway <NUM> and the building management system <NUM> may use a standard communication protocol (e.g., IEEE <NUM> - Ethernet and/or IEEE <NUM> - WiFi) or a closed or proprietary communication protocol. The gateway <NUM> communicates some or all of the data gathered by the detectors 104A-104n to the building management system <NUM>. Such data may include unique identification data for each detector, temperature data from some or all of the detectors, water seepage data from some or all of the detectors <NUM>, and/or water level data from some or all of the detectors <NUM>. In embodiments, the gateway <NUM> may push data to the building management system <NUM> on a continuous, intermittent, periodic, aperiodic, or event-driven basis. In other embodiments, the building management system <NUM> may pull data from the gateway <NUM> on a continuous, intermittent, periodic, aperiodic, or event-driven basis.

The gateway <NUM> communicatively couples to one or more detectors <NUM> using one or more short-range wireless communication protocols. In embodiments, the gateway <NUM> may communicatively couple to <NUM> or more detectors <NUM>, <NUM> or more detectors <NUM>, <NUM> or more detectors <NUM>, or <NUM> or more detectors <NUM>. In embodiments, the detectors <NUM> may communicatively couple to the gateway <NUM> via one or more wired networks, one or more wireless networks, or any combination thereof. In at least some embodiments, the detectors <NUM> may include a LoRa wireless communications interface circuitry <NUM> to communicate with the gateway <NUM>. The LoRa wireless communications interface circuitry <NUM> communicates via a low-power, wide area network (LPWAN). In other embodiments, the detectors <NUM> may include any type of wired or wireless interface circuitry. In embodiments, some or all of the detectors <NUM> may push data to the gateway <NUM> on a continuous, intermittent, periodic, aperiodic, or event-driven basis (detection of water seepage, detection of high water level, detection of potential freeze conditions, detection of potential thaw conditions, etc.). In some embodiments, the detectors <NUM> may push the data to the gateway <NUM> in response to a poll, inquiry, or similar request message transmitted by the gateway <NUM> to some or all of the detectors <NUM>. In other embodiments, the gateway <NUM> may pull data from some or all of the detectors <NUM> on a continuous, intermittent, periodic, aperiodic, or event-driven basis.

<FIG> is a high-level logic flow diagram of an illustrative method <NUM> of detecting a failure of the one or more sensors, electrodes, and/or pins <NUM> communicatively coupled to the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> in the detector <NUM>; the method <NUM> may be implemented by logic circuitry communicatively coupled to the gateway <NUM>, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. It should be appreciated that the method <NUM> may be described in combination with the illustrative intelligent roof drain system <NUM> described herein, the method <NUM> is not limited to the illustrative intelligent roof drain system <NUM> and instead may be used with any connected system or method for detecting water seepage and/or water leaks, within the limits defined by the claims.

In embodiments, the logic circuitry may be disposed in whole or in part within the gateway <NUM>. In other embodiments, the logic circuitry may be disposed remote from the gateway <NUM> and communicatively coupled to the gateway <NUM>. In embodiments, the logic circuitry may use all or a portion of the information and/or data provided by the detectors <NUM> to identify detectors <NUM> having a potentially failed sensor <NUM> that may compromise the accuracy of the detector. The method <NUM> commences at <NUM>.

At <NUM>, the logic circuitry receives information and/or data representative of water level data from the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> in each of some or all of the plurality of detectors <NUM>. In embodiments, the information and/or data representative of water level data may be communicated to the logic circuitry on a continuous, intermittent, periodic, or aperiodic basis. In embodiments, the logic circuitry includes data storage circuitry to store all or a portion of the information and/or data representative of water level data provided by each of the detectors.

At <NUM>, using the received information and/or data representative of water level proximate each of the detectors <NUM>/roof drains <NUM>, the logic circuitry generates a value representative of the average water level proximate all or a portion of the plurality of detectors <NUM>/roof drains <NUM>.

At <NUM>, the logic circuitry determines, for each of the plurality of detectors <NUM>, whether the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM>/roof drain <NUM> pair is less than the average water level determined at <NUM>. Responsive to a logic circuitry determination that the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> is less than the average water level determined at <NUM>, the method <NUM> proceeds to <NUM>. Responsive to a logic circuitry determination that the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> is greater than the average water level determined at <NUM>, the method <NUM> proceeds to <NUM>.

At <NUM>, responsive to a determination by the logic circuitry that the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> is less than the average water level determined at <NUM>, the logic circuitry determines a difference between the average water level and the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM>.

At <NUM>, the logic circuitry determines whether the difference between the average water level and the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> calculated at <NUM> exceeds a defined threshold value. In embodiments, the threshold may be determined using the detected water level over a number of sample intervals, a mathematical algorithm that considers the water level at a first detector referenced to the water level at one or more other detectors (e.g., water level at detector 104A is usually "X" when the water level at detector 104B is "Y" ± a variance and the water level at detector 104C is "Z" ± a variance). Responsive to a determination at <NUM> that the difference between the average water level and the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> calculated at <NUM> exceeds a defined threshold value (i.e., the water level data is indicative of a failed water level sensor <NUM>), the method <NUM> continues at <NUM>. responsive to a determination at <NUM> that the difference between the average water level and the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> calculated at <NUM> does not exceed the defined threshold value, the method <NUM> concludes at <NUM>.

At <NUM>, responsive to the determination at <NUM> that the difference between the average water level and the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> calculated at <NUM> exceeds a defined threshold value, the logic circuitry generates one or more sensor failure alarm outputs. In at least some embodiments, the logic circuitry in the gateway <NUM> may communicate the sensor failure alarm to a local or remote building management system <NUM>. The method <NUM> then concludes at <NUM>.

At <NUM>, responsive to the determination that the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> is greater than or equal to the average water level determined at <NUM>, the logic circuitry determines whether additional detectors <NUM> require attention to determine whether the level sensing circuitry <NUM> has failed. In response to additional detectors <NUM> requiring attention, the method <NUM> continues at <NUM>, In response to no additional detectors <NUM> requiring attention, the method <NUM> concludes at <NUM>.

<FIG> is a high-level logic flow diagram of an illustrative method <NUM> of detecting a partially or completely plugged or obstructed roof drain <NUM>; the method <NUM> may be implemented by logic circuitry communicatively coupled to the gateway <NUM>, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. It should be appreciated that the method <NUM> may be described in combination with the illustrative intelligent roof drain system <NUM> described herein, the method <NUM> is not limited to the illustrative intelligent roof drain system <NUM> and instead may be used with any connected system or method for detecting water seepage and/or water leaks, within the limits defined by the claims. In embodiments, the logic circuitry may use all or a portion of the information and/or data provided by the detectors <NUM> to identify detectors <NUM> disposed proximate a partially or completely blocked, plugged, or obstructed roof drain <NUM>. The method <NUM> commences at <NUM>.

At <NUM>, the logic circuitry receives information and/or data representative of water level data from the water level monitoring circuitry <NUM> in each of some or all of the plurality of detectors <NUM>. In embodiments, the information and/or data representative of water level data may be communicated to the logic circuitry on a continuous, intermittent, periodic, or aperiodic basis. In embodiments, the logic circuitry may include memory or data storage circuitry to store all or a portion of the information and/or data representative of water level data provided by each of the detectors. In other embodiments, the logic circuitry may communicate all or a portion of the received information and/or data representative of water level data to one or more remote locations, such as a remote data storage server or similar.

At <NUM>, the logic circuitry determines, for each of the plurality of detectors <NUM>, whether the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM>/roof drain <NUM> pair is greater than the average water level determined at <NUM>. Responsive to a logic circuitry determination that the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> is greater than the average water level determined at <NUM>, the method <NUM> proceeds to <NUM>. Responsive to a logic circuitry determination that the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> is less than the average water level determined at <NUM>, the method <NUM> proceeds to <NUM>.

At <NUM>, responsive to a determination by the logic circuitry that the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> is greater than the average water level determined at <NUM>, the logic circuitry determines a difference between the average water level and the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM>.

At <NUM>, the logic circuitry determines whether the difference between the average water level and the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> calculated at <NUM> exceeds a defined threshold value. In embodiments, the threshold may be determined using the detected water level over a number of sample intervals, a mathematical algorithm that considers the water level at a first detector referenced to the water level at one or more other detectors (e.g., water level at detector 104A is usually "X" when the water level at detector 104B is "Y" ± a variance and the water level at detector 104C is "Z" ± a variance). Responsive to a determination at <NUM> that the difference between the average water level and the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> calculated at <NUM> exceeds the defined threshold value (i.e., indicating a potentially plugged, blocked, or obstructed roof drain <NUM>), the method <NUM> continues at <NUM>. responsive to a determination at <NUM> that the difference between the average water level and the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> calculated at <NUM> does not exceed the defined threshold value, the method <NUM> concludes at <NUM>.

At <NUM>, responsive to the determination at <NUM> that the difference between the average water level and the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> calculated at <NUM> exceeds the defined threshold value, the logic circuitry generates one or more high level alarm outputs. In at least some embodiments, the logic circuitry in the gateway <NUM> may communicate the high level alarm to a local or remote building management system <NUM>. The method <NUM> then concludes at <NUM>.

At <NUM>, responsive to the determination that the water level proximate the respective detector <NUM> is less than or equal to the average water level determined at <NUM>, the logic circuitry determines whether additional detectors <NUM> require attention to determine whether a high-level condition exists proximate the roof drain <NUM> associated with the respective detector <NUM>. In response to additional detectors <NUM> requiring attention, the method <NUM> continues at <NUM>, In response to no additional detectors <NUM> requiring attention, the method <NUM> concludes at <NUM>.

The term substantially, as generally referred to herein, refers to a degree of precision within acceptable tolerance that accounts for and reflects minor real-world variation due to material composition, material defects, and/or limitations in manufacturing processes. Such variation may therefore be said to achieve largely, but not necessarily wholly, the target/nominal characteristic. To provide one non-limiting numerical example to quantify "substantially," such a modifier is intended to include minor variation that can cause a deviation of up to and including ± <NUM>% from a particular stated quality/characteristic unless otherwise provided by the present disclosure.

The term "coupled" as used herein refers to any connection, coupling, link or the like between elements/components. In contrast, directly coupled refers to two elements in contact with each other in a manner that does not include an intermediate element/component disposed therebetween.

The use of the terms "first," "second," and "third" when referring to elements herein are for purposes of clarity and distinguishing between elements, and not for purposes of limitation. Likewise, like numerals are utilized to reference like elements/components between figures.

Claim 1:
A roof drain gateway (<NUM>), comprising:
gateway logic circuitry to:
determine (<NUM>, <NUM>) an average water level using data included in the water level signal received from each of a plurality of detectors (<NUM>), each water level being proximate a particular roof drain (<NUM>) and at least one detector (<NUM>) being associated with each particular roof drain (<NUM>); and
for each of the plurality of detectors (<NUM>):
determine (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) whether a water level sensor failure has occurred for a water level sensor (<NUM>) communicatively coupled to water level monitoring circuitry (<NUM>) in the detector (<NUM>) using the determined average water level; and
determine whether a roof drain (<NUM>) is obstructed using the determined average water level.