In-line pumping apparatus, system, and method for increasing liquid flow in gravity networks

A system for pumping wastewater flowing in a gravity feed network having in-line inlet and outlet pipes, comprising:

• a main pipe coupled to the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe of the gravity feed network, the main pipe configured to receive wastewater flow, the main pipe comprising an upstream portion a downstream portion, and a manifold disposed therebetween, wherein the main pipe includes a vertical axis orthogonal to the flow direction;
• one or more branch lines, each branch line including:
• a pump of the reversible, self-clearing type having a pump body, and a motor operably connected to an impeller operating in a forward direction to increase the flow of wastewater;
• an inlet branch pipe connected at a first end to the upstream portion, and at a second end to the pump body;
• an outlet branch pipe connected at a third end to the pump body and at a fourth end to the downstream portion;
• a check valve operably disposed in the manifold portion, the check valve having a closed first position and an open second position, wherein the check valve in the closed first position is adapted to prevent upstream flow, and in the open second position, to allow downstream flow through the main pipe;
• at least one sensor adapted to determine the wastewater level in the main pipe;
• at least one sensor adapted to determine a deflection angle of the check valve;
• a controller electrically connected to the sensors and adapted to increase the flow of the wastewater when the wastewater level in the main pipe is above a predetermined level;
• wherein the system is controllably adapted to increase the flow of the wastewater when the wastewater level in the main pipe is above a predetermined level.