Monitoring groundwater characteristics by means of a multi-parametric probe and sampling device

The paper describes the feature of a prototypal system for in situ analysis of groundwater bodies. The system consists of a probe, equipped with sensors and with a water sampling device, and of a control unit, connected though an umbilical. With respect to other available systems of the same kind, the one at issue has innovative features, both in the mechatronic design and in the control and data processing architecture. In particular, thanks to modularity, the probe can be assembled in different configurations, according to the user´s requirements and to the dimension of the inspection well. The system self-organizes itself according to the chosen configuration and, analyzing collected data, it can implement a number of auto-diagnosis procedures that improve reliability. In addition, using fuzzy reasoning, the system is able to provide a first rough evaluation of the quality of the monitored groundwater body, so to support and facilitate the operator´s activity and decisional task. The system can be operated by means of two different man/machine interfaces, a simpler one for routine use and a more powerful one for greater interactivity, also from remote locations via Internet.