Pneumatic Pump Cycle Counter

Abstract

This invention provides pneumatic pump cycle counters, methods for assembling pneumatic pump cycle counters, and methods for obtaining pump counts with the pneumatic pump cycle counters for wells and other systems that are equipped with pneumatic pumps.

Claims

1. A pneumatic pump cycle counter comprising: a pneumatic pump comprising an air inlet line in fluid communication with a compressed air feed line, the compressed air feed line in fluid communication with an inline pressure-reducing regulator, the air inlet line in fluid communication with the pressure-reducing regulator and the pneumatic pump, a piezoresistive pressure sensor in operative contact with air within the air inlet line and proximate to the inline pressure-reducing regulator, the piezoresistive pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, air inlet line pressure, and a processing unit in electronic communication with the piezoresistive pressure sensor, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of air inlet line pressure, and configured either a) to continuously or periodically calculate changes in the air inlet line pressure over time, and to extrapolate and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; or b) to continuously or periodically calculate a pressure change between the air inlet line pressure and a rolling average of previously measured air inlet line pressures and to continuously or periodically calculate air inlet line pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; wherein the pneumatic pump cycle counter also comprises one or more of the following: one or more temperature sensors configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, a measured temperature; a gas extraction well pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, gas extraction well pressure; an atmospheric chemical sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, a concentration for each of one or more chemicals measured by the atmospheric chemical sensor; and/or a gas extraction well chemical sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, a concentration for each of one or more chemicals; and wherein one or more temperature sensors is present; and wherein the one or more temperature sensors measure gas extraction well temperature and/or ambient air temperature; and wherein an atmospheric chemical sensor is present and wherein the atmospheric chemical sensor senses methane.

2-24. (canceled)

25. A method for assembling a pneumatic pump cycle counter, which method comprises: connecting an air inlet line to a pneumatic pump to provide fluid communication therebetween; connecting the air inlet line to a compressed air feed line to provide fluid communication therebetween; placing a pressure-reducing regulator inline and connecting the pressure-reducing regulator to the compressed air feed line and to the air inlet line to provide fluid communication between the pressure-reducing regulator and the compressed air feed line, and to provide fluid communication between the pressure-reducing regulator and the air inlet line; placing a piezoresistive sensor in operative contact with air within the air inlet line and proximate to the pressure-reducing regulator, the piezoresistive pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, air inlet line pressure, connecting a processing unit to the piezoresistive sensor for electronic communication, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of air inlet line pressure, and configured either a) to continuously or periodically calculate changes in the air inlet line pressure over time, and to extrapolate and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; or b) to continuously or periodically calculate a pressure change between the air inlet line pressure and a rolling average of previously measured air inlet line pressures and to continuously or periodically calculate air inlet line pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; connecting a transmitter to the processing unit to place the transmitter in electronic communication with the processing unit, the transmitter configured to transmit one or more signals; and connecting a data repository configured to store one or more signals after receipt from the transmitter, wherein the data repository is a cloud-based data storage system and/or the data repository can be accessed via a webpage.

26-27. (canceled)

28. A method for obtaining pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump, which method comprises: generating pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump cycle counter comprised of i) a pneumatic pump comprising an air inlet line in fluid communication with a compressed air feed line, the compressed air feed line in fluid communication with an inline pressure-reducing regulator, the air inlet line in fluid communication with the pressure-reducing regulator and the pneumatic pump, a piezoresistive pressure sensor in operative contact with air within the air inlet line and proximate to the inline pressure-reducing regulator, the piezoresistive pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, air inlet line pressure, and ii) a processing unit in electronic communication with the piezoresistive pressure sensor, the generating comprising: measuring the air inlet line pressure with the piezoresistive sensor to produce a signal indicative of air inlet line pressure, transmitting the signal indicative of air inlet line pressure from the piezoresistive sensor to the processing unit, receiving the signals indicative of air inlet line pressure in the processing unit, the processing unit continuously or periodically calculating either a) changes in the air inlet line pressure over time, and extrapolating and transmitting signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; or b) a pressure change between the air inlet line pressure and a rolling average of previously measured air inlet line pressures and continuously or periodically calculating air inlet line pressure changes over time, and extrapolating and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; transmitting one or more signals via a transmitter, the transmitter configured to transmit the one or more signals; and storing signals in a data repository configured to store signals after receipt from the transmitter, wherein the data repository is a cloud-based data storage system and/or the data repository can be accessed via a webpage.

29-38. (canceled)

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] FIG. 1 is a schematic of a landfill gas recovery system according to one embodiment of the invention, shown with a plurality of wells dispersed across the landfill top surface, each well having a pneumatic pump cycle counter according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of a pneumatic pump with a well having a pressure sensor on the air inlet line, according to the embodiment of FIG. 1. Various features of a system comprising a well and a pneumatic pump cycle counter according to one embodiment of the invention are also shown.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of a pneumatic pump with a well having an ambient air pressure sensor and a pressure sensor on the exhaust gas line, according to another embodiment of the invention. Various features of a system comprising a well and a pneumatic pump cycle counter according to one embodiment of the invention are also shown.

[0012] The figures illustrate embodiments of specific aspects of the invention, and are not intended to impose limitations on the scope of the invention. Like numbers or letters are used to refer to like parts, components or features amongst the several figures.

FURTHER DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] As used throughout this document, the word cycle has the same meaning as the word stroke when referring to pneumatic pumps; i.e., a pneumatic pump cycle and a pneumatic pump stroke refer to the same phenomenon.

[0014] Throughout this document, the pressure-reducing regulator may sometimes be referred to as a step-down regulator and/or as a filter regulator. Pressure regulators of this type are commercially available from various vendors.

[0015] As used throughout this document, the word wireless refers to any transmission of communication of radio signals in a frequency range of about 3 Hz to about 6 GHz. Examples of wireless communication routes include cellular and Bluetooth connections.

[0016] The invention is useful for pneumatic pumps used as subsurface fluid pumps, especially for example in pneumatic pumps that are associated with gas extraction wells, in particular for landfill gas extraction wells. The pneumatic pump cycle counters of the invention are also useful with pneumatic pumps that are associated with other types of subterranean wells.

[0017] The systems of the invention comprise one or more pneumatic pump cycle counters, each pneumatic pump cycle counter comprising a processing unit. Each processing unit is in electronic communication with a transmitter. Each such transmitter is in signal telecommunication with a data repository over a telecommunications network, preferably a wireless communication network, such as, e.g., the Internet via a cellular data service. As used herein, the term transmitter includes either a transmitter or a transceiver capable of sending and receiving wireless or cellular signals. While the systems of the invention include those with only one pneumatic pump cycle counter, generally a plurality of pneumatic pump cycle counters each are connected (preferably wirelessly) to a data repository (via operative telecommunication with a respective transmitter of each pump cycle counter). The pneumatic pump cycle counter in one aspect of the invention may comprise a pressure sensor in operative contact with air within an air inlet line of a pneumatic pump to generate pump cycle counts, and the pneumatic pump cycle counter in another aspect of the invention may comprise a pressure sensor in operative contact with air within an air exhaust line of the pneumatic pump to generate pump cycle counts. In a system according to one aspect of the invention, the pneumatic pump cycle counters may be all of the same type of pneumatic pump cycle counter (e.g., all having a pressure sensor on the air inlet line to generate pump cycle counts) or a mixture of different types of pump cycle counters (e.g., one or more having a pressure sensor on the air inlet line to generate pump cycle counts and one or more having a pressure sensor on the air exhaust line to generate pump cycle counts).

[0018] Each transmitter is configured to transmit signals, the signals indicative of a pump identifier and one or more pump cycle counts determined at a point in time or repeatedly determined over a time period. The pump identifier is often indicative of the pump's position or geolocation but could also be, e.g., a pre-assigned label, tag or serial number; preferably, the pump identifier is a pump position or geolocation. When other sensors are present, the signals may also comprise, as applicable, air inlet line pressure, the air inlet line pressure change, the air inlet line pressure changes over time, the ambient air pressure, the exhaust air pressure, the exhaust air pressure change, a time of measurement, a gas extraction well temperature, an ambient air temperature, a gas extraction well pressure, and/or a volume of liquid pumped. The transmitter is preferably configured to transmit signals via a wireless communication network, such as an internet connection and/or via one or more cellular networks.

[0019] The data repository stores signals after receipt from the transmitter. The signals comprise data representing a pump identifier and one or more pump cycle counts associated with and determined by the identified pump's counter. When other sensors are present, the signals may also comprise, as applicable, air inlet line pressure, the air inlet line pressure change, the air inlet line pressure changes over time, the ambient air pressure, the exhaust air pressure, the exhaust air pressure change, a time of measurement, a gas extraction well temperature, an ambient air temperature, a gas extraction well pressure, and/or a volume of liquid pumped, all associated with the identified pump.

[0020] In some preferred embodiments, the data repository is one or more cloud-based data storage systems. In other preferred embodiments, the data repository can be accessed via a webpage. In still other preferred embodiments, the data repository is one or more cloud-based data storage systems and the data repository can be accessed via a webpage.

[0021] The pneumatic pump cycle counters are useful in subterranean wells that extract gases or liquids, especially in landfill gas recovery wells.

[0022] Turning now to the Figures that illustrate specific embodiments of the invention, FIG. 1 is a schematic of a landfill natural gas recovery system in accordance with one embodiment of the invention, shown with a plurality of wells equipped with pneumatic pumps (with a subterranean well casing; not shown). Each well A includes a pneumatic pump and a pneumatic pump cycle counter comprising a pressure sensor on an air inlet line according to the invention. In FIG. 1, the wells A are each in fluid communication respectively with an above-ground pipe B1, each of which is in fluid communication with a respective subterranean pipe B2, each of which is in fluid communication with a vacuum gas collector C; gas collector C may also include gas upgrading or purifying apparatus. Each of the wells A is shown with a wellhead F (see FIGS. 2 and 3) in fluid communication with a gas flow line G, which is in fluid communication with above-ground pipe B1. As noted on FIG. 1, wireless or cellular signals 4 are broadcast from the respective transmitterstams of the pneumatic pump cycle counters to one or more receivers 6, which receive and re-transmit the signals from the receivers over a telecommunications network to a data repository 8, preferably in the cloud (i.e., one or more servers connected to a global computer network such as the Internet). The data repository 8 is operatively connected to and in communication with an electronic terminal device 10 having a display for end user interface with data repository 8 and any associated software running in the cloud and/or on device 10 to process and output data from data repository 8.

[0023] FIGS. 2 and 3 are cross-sectional side views of two different embodiments of a gas extraction well A, each equipped with a pneumatic pump P and pneumatic pump cycle counter according to an embodiment of the invention. In these Figures, the arrows show the direction of fluid flow. FIGS. 2 and 3 show well A with a well casing A1 with orifices A2 for entry of gases and liquids from the surrounding landfill's contents. Pneumatic pump P is disposed downhole within well casing A1 and in fluid communication with wellhead F, which is in fluid communication with gas flow line G. Gas flow line G is in fluid communication with an above-ground pipe B1. Above-ground pipe B1 is in fluid communication with a subterranean pipe B2, which is in fluid communication with a gas collector C, which is in fluid communication with transport pipe D, which is in fluid communication with end use facility E. Additional subterranean pipes B2 connect other wells (not shown either of FIG. 2 or 3, but shown in FIG. 1) to the gas collector C. Also shown is pneumatic pump P's liquid discharge line H, partially broken away.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of a gas extraction well A with a pneumatic pump cycle counter according to one embodiment of the invention having a pressure sensor on the air inlet line as in FIG. 1. In FIG. 2, a compressed air feed line 12 (partially broken away) is in fluid communication with air inlet line 14. Compressed air feed line 12 and air inlet line 14 are in fluid communication with inline pressure-reducing regulator 16. Air inlet line 14 is in fluid communication with the pneumatic pump P. A piezoresistive pressure sensor 18 is in contact with the air inlet line 14, and piezoresistive pressure sensor 18 is proximate to the inline pressure-reducing regulator 16. A processing unit 20 is shown attached to the piezoresistive pressure sensor 18, but the processing unit 20 can be located in any convenient position that allows the processing unit 20 to be in electronic communication with the piezoresistive pressure sensor 18, and to receive and process signals from other sensors present with the pneumatic pump A. In preferred embodiments, one or more additional sensors are present with the pneumatic pump A. Preferably, the sensors include one or more temperature sensors 22, a gas extraction well pressure sensor 24, and/or an atmospheric chemical sensor 26. Sensors 22, 24, and 26 are shown on wellhead F. Also shown are air exhaust line 28 in fluid communication with an air exhaust port 30, and outlet hose 32 (partially broken away) in fluid communication with air exhaust port 30; outlet hose 32 is also in fluid communication with the atmosphere.

[0025] The piezoresistive pressure sensor reports pressure change using ambient pressure as the baseline, and the pressure is normally measured by the piezoresistive pressure sensor immediately after the pressure-reducing regulator has operated. Suitable piezoresistive pressure sensors are preferably rated for 0 to about 150.0 psi (0 to about 1.034 MPa) and provide output, preferably using an I2C protocol. One commercially available example of a piezoresistive pressure sensor is model no. 2000361 available from DATAQ Instruments Inc.

[0026] In pneumatic pumps having a pressure sensor on the air inlet line as in FIG. 2, the processing unit is programmed and configured to receive the signals indicative of air inlet line pressure (from the piezoresistive pressure sensor). In one embodiment, the processing unit is programmed and configured to continuously or periodically calculate changes in the air inlet line pressure over time, and to extrapolate and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. In another embodiment, the processing unit is programmed and configured to continuously or periodically calculate a pressure change between the concurrently measured air inlet line pressure and a rolling average of previously measured air inlet line pressures and to continuously or periodically calculate air inlet line pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side view of a gas extraction well with a different pneumatic pump cycle counter according to another embodiment of the invention having an ambient air pressure sensor and a pressure sensor on the exhaust air line, rather than the air inlet line. In FIG. 3, compressed air feed line 12 is in fluid communication with air inlet line 14. Compressed air feed line 12 and air inlet line 14 are in fluid communication with inline pressure-reducing regulator 16. Air inlet line 14 is in fluid communication with the pneumatic pump P. Pneumatic pump P has an air exhaust line 28 in fluid communication with an air exhaust port 30. The air exhaust port 30 is in fluid communication with an outlet hose 32, which outlet hose 32 is in fluid communication with the atmosphere. An exhaust air pressure sensor 34 is in fluid communication with air exhaust line 28. An ambient air pressure sensor 36 is shown on the outside of air exhaust line 28. The processing unit 20 is shown near exhaust air pressure sensor 36, but the processing unit 20 can be located in any convenient position that allows the processing unit 20 to be in electronic communication with the exhaust air pressure sensor 36, and to receive signals from other sensors present as a part of well A. In preferred embodiments, one or more additional sensors are present as a part of well A. Preferably, the sensors include one or more temperature sensors 22, a gas extraction well pressure sensor 24, and/or an atmospheric chemical sensor 26. Sensors 22, 24, and 26 are shown on wellhead F.

[0028] The processing unit is in electronic communication with the respective pressure sensor or sensors associated with the pneumatic pump cycle counter, and in electronic communication with any other sensors present. In at least some embodiments, the processing unit comprises memory storage for processing units not set up for wireless communication, or as backup for instances when wireless transmission of data is not available. Processing units are usually microchips having a multifunction board, a processor, preferably a processor of about 16 bits or more, flash memory (preferably about 2 MB or more), a data rate of about 4 mbps or more, RAM storage of about 64K or more, and preferably, wireless communication capability. One suitable commercially available example of a processing unit is a microchip having a multifunction board with a 32 bit processor at 64 MHz, 5 MB of flash memory, 256K of RAM storage, a data rate of 12 mbps, and a cellular communication functionality (e.g., model no. BRN404X from Particle Industries, Inc.).

[0029] Generally, the processing unit is powered by a battery. In some embodiments, one or more solar panels provides at least a portion of the electricity to the processing unit. In some embodiments, the battery has a sensor in electronic communication with the processing unit and configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, battery life status. Preferably, the processing unit has one or more solar panels to provide at least a portion of its electricity and a battery having a sensor in electronic communication with the processing unit and configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, battery life status.

[0030] In at least some embodiments, the processing unit is configured to receive signals comprising various instructions. Typical instructions are to reset the pump cycle count to a selected value; to open or close the valve of the compressed air feed; and/or to turn the pneumatic pump on or off. Instructions may be initiated manually or may be automated to occur at a pre-selected time or value, and the instructions may be sent remotely, whether the instruction is automated or manually input.

[0031] In some embodiments, the processing unit is configured to continuously or periodically calculate a volume of liquid pumped based on the number of pump cycles counted, and when the pneumatic pump comprises a transmitter to transmit signals, the signals will include a pump identifier and i) a volume of liquid pumped through the main chamber of the pneumatic pump, and/or ii) a volume pumped that meets or exceeds a pre-selected value.

[0032] In some embodiments, the processing unit is in electronic communication with an exhaust air pressure sensor, and the processing unit is programmed and configured to receive the signals indicative of exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure change (differential) between the concurrently measured exhaust air pressure and a rolling average of previously measured exhaust air pressures and to continuously or periodically calculate exhaust air pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value.

[0033] In other embodiments, the processing unit is in electronic communication with an ambient air pressure sensor and an exhaust air pressure sensor, and the processing unit is programmed and configured to receive the signals indicative of ambient air pressure and exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure change (differential) between the concurrently measured ambient air pressure (atmospheric air pressure) and the exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value.

[0034] Various optional sensors may be present with the pneumatic pump cycle counters. One or more temperature sensors may be present, typically a temperature sensor to measure gas extraction well temperature and/or a temperature sensor to measure ambient temperature. Each temperature sensor is configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, the temperature measured; suitable temperature sensors include thermocouples. The atmospheric chemical sensor is configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, a concentration for each of one or more chemicals; preferably, the chemicals sensed are methane and/or carbon monoxide, more preferably methane. The gas extraction well chemical sensor is configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, a concentration for each of one or more chemicals; preferably, the chemicals sensed are carbon dioxide and/or oxygen. When a well associated with a pneumatic pump cycle counter according to the invention is a gas extraction well, a gas extraction well pressure sensor is preferably present. The gas extraction well pressure sensor is in electronic communication with the processing unit and configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, gas extraction well pressure. Any one or more of these optional sensors may be present with the pneumatic pump cycle counter. The list of possible sensors included here is not exhaustive; one or more other sensors may be present if desired.

[0035] In preferred embodiments, a transmitter is present and in electronic communication with the processing unit. Preferably, the transmitter is in the housing containing the processing unit. The transmitter, signals, pump identifier, and signal transmission are as described above for the transmitters of the systems of the invention.

[0036] Preferably, the signals comprising data representing a pump identifier and one or more pump cycle counts, and other data where applicable, are stored in a data repository after receipt from a transmitter. The data repository is as described above for the data repositories of the systems of the invention.

[0037] In another aspect of the invention, a method for assembling a pneumatic pump cycle counter comprises connecting an air inlet line to a pneumatic pump to provide fluid communication therebetween. The air inlet line is connected to a compressed air feed line to provide fluid communication therebetween. A pressure-reducing regulator is placed inline and connected to the compressed air feed line and to the air inlet line to provide fluid communication between the pressure-reducing regulator and the compressed air feed line, and to provide fluid communication between the pressure-reducing regulator and the air inlet line. A piezoresistive sensor is placed in contact with the air inlet line and proximate to the pressure-reducing regulator. A processing unit is connected to the piezoresistive sensor for electronic communication. The piezoresistive pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, air inlet line pressure, and the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of air inlet line pressure.

[0038] Another aspect of the invention provides a method for assembling a pneumatic pump cycle counter that comprises connecting an air exhaust line to a pneumatic pump to provide fluid communication between the air exhaust line and the pneumatic pump. The air exhaust line is connected to an air exhaust port to provide fluid communication between the air exhaust line and the air exhaust port. The air exhaust port is connected to an outlet hose to provide fluid communication between the air exhaust port and the outlet hose, the outlet hose in fluid communication with the atmosphere. An exhaust air pressure sensor is connected in fluid communication with the air exhaust line, the exhaust air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, exhaust air pressure. A processing unit is connected for electronic communication with the exhaust air pressure sensor. The processing unit is configured to receive the signals indicative of exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure change, as described above.

[0039] Still another aspect of the invention provides a method for assembling a pneumatic pump cycle counter that comprises connecting an air exhaust line to a pneumatic pump to provide fluid communication between the air exhaust line and the pneumatic pump. The air exhaust line is connected to an air exhaust port to provide fluid communication between the air exhaust line and the air exhaust port. The air exhaust port is connected to an outlet hose to provide fluid communication between the air exhaust port and the outlet hose, the outlet hose in fluid communication with the atmosphere. An exhaust air pressure sensor is connected in fluid communication with the air exhaust line, the exhaust air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, exhaust air pressure. An ambient air pressure sensor is connected to a processing unit for electronic communication, the ambient air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, ambient air pressure. The processing unit is connected for electronic communication with the exhaust air pressure sensor. The processing unit is configured to receive the signals indicative of ambient air pressure and exhaust air pressure and to make calculations, as described above.

[0040] The methods for assembling a pneumatic pump cycle counter preferably also comprise placing a transmitter in electronic communication with the processing unit. The transmitter is as described above for the transmitters of the systems of the invention.

[0041] The methods for assembling a pneumatic pump cycle counter preferably also comprise connecting a data repository configured to store signals after receipt from a transmitter. The data repository is as described above for the data repositories of the systems of the invention. When both a transmitter and a data repository are connected to a pump cycle counter, a system of the invention has been assembled.

[0042] A method for obtaining pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump comprises generating pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump cycle counter by measuring the air inlet line pressure with the piezoresistive sensor, the piezoresistive sensor producing signals indicative of air inlet line pressure. The signals indicative of air inlet line pressure are transmitted from the piezoresistive sensor to the processing unit, and the signals indicative of air inlet line pressure are received in the processing unit. The pneumatic pump cycle counter comprising a pressure sensor on the air inlet line is as described above.

[0043] Another method for obtaining pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump comprises generating pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump cycle counter by measuring the exhaust air pressure with the exhaust air pressure sensor, the exhaust air pressure sensor to produce signals indicative of the exhaust air pressure. The signals indicative of exhaust air pressure are transmitted to the processing unit, and the signals which are indicative of exhaust air pressure changes over time are received in the processing unit which extrapolates, and transmits signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. The pneumatic pump cycle counter comprising a pressure sensor on the air exhaust line is as described above.

[0044] Still another method for obtaining pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump comprises generating pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump cycle counter by measuring the exhaust air pressure with the exhaust air pressure sensor to produce signals indicative of the exhaust air pressure, and measuring the ambient air pressure with the ambient air pressure sensor to produce signals indicative of the ambient air pressure. The signals indicative of exhaust air pressure and ambient air pressure are transmitted to the processing unit, and the signals which are indicative of exhaust air pressure and ambient air pressure are received in the processing unit which calculates exhaust air pressure changes between the concurrently measured ambient air pressure and the exhaust air pressure and calculates an exhaust air pressure change over time, and extrapolates, and transmits signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. The pneumatic pump cycle counter comprises an exhaust air pressure sensor and an ambient pressure sensor is as described above.

[0045] The methods for obtaining pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump preferably also comprise transmitting the signals via a transmitter, the transmitter in electronic communication with the processing unit and configured to transmit signals. More preferably, the methods for obtaining pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump also comprise storing signals in a data repository configured to store signals after receipt from the transmitter. The transmitter and data repository are as described above for the transmitters and data repositories of the systems of the invention.

[0046] Also provided by this invention are pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a piezoresistive pressure sensor configured as described above, and a processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of air inlet line pressure and to calculate pressure changes therefrom as described above. In another embodiment, the apparatus comprises an exhaust air pressure sensor configured as described above, and a processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of exhaust air pressure and to calculate exhaust air pressure changes therefrom as described above. In still another embodiment, the apparatus comprises an exhaust air pressure sensor configured as described above and an ambient air pressure sensor configured as described above, and a processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of ambient air pressure and exhaust air pressure and to calculate pressure changes therefrom as described above.

[0047] In the apparatus of the invention, the processing unit can be configured to receive signals comprising instructions and to execute instructions, as described above. The apparatus of the invention may comprise one or more sensors, as described above.

[0048] The apparatus of the invention preferably also comprise a transmitter as described above. When a transmitter is part of the apparatus, the transmitter is preferably configured to transmits signals received from the processing unit to a data repository. The data repository is as described above for the data repositories of the systems of the invention. In some embodiments, the apparatus is associated with a well, as described above.

[0049] Kits of the invention are comprised of a pressure sensor and a processing unit, where the pressure sensor is a piezoelectric pressure sensor for an air inlet line, a pressure sensor for an air exhaust line, or an ambient pressure sensor and a pressure sensor for an air exhaust line, all as described above. In some embodiments, the kits may also comprise one or more sensors as described above and/or a transmitter as described above.

[0050] Further embodiments of the invention include, without limitation: [0051] A) A pneumatic pump cycle counter comprising: [0052] a pneumatic pump comprising an air inlet line in fluid communication with a compressed air feed line, the compressed air feed line in fluid communication with an inline pressure-reducing regulator, the air inlet line in fluid communication with the pressure-reducing regulator and the pneumatic pump, a piezoresistive pressure sensor in operative contact with air within the air inlet line and proximate to the inline pressure-reducing regulator, the piezoresistive pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, air inlet line pressure, and a processing unit in electronic communication with the piezoresistive pressure sensor, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of air inlet line pressure, and configured either [0053] a) to continuously or periodically calculate changes in the air inlet line pressure over time, and to extrapolate and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; or [0054] b) to continuously or periodically calculate a pressure change between the concurrently measured air inlet line pressure and a rolling average of previously measured air inlet line pressures and to continuously or periodically calculate air inlet line pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. [0055] B) The pneumatic pump cycle counter as in A) wherein the air inlet line is in fluid communication with a compressed air feed, the compressed air feed having a valve, and wherein the processing unit is configured to receive signals comprising instructions to open or close the valve of the compressed air feed and to execute instructions to open or close the valve of the compressed air feed. [0056] C) A pneumatic pump cycle counter comprising: [0057] a pneumatic pump comprising an air exhaust line in fluid communication with an air exhaust port, the air exhaust port in fluid communication with an outlet hose, the outlet hose in fluid communication with the atmosphere; [0058] an exhaust air pressure sensor in operative contact with air within the air exhaust line, the exhaust air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, exhaust air pressure; and [0059] a processing unit in electronic communication with the exhaust air pressure sensor, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure change between the concurrently measured exhaust air pressure and a rolling average of previously measured exhaust air pressures and to continuously or periodically calculate exhaust air pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. [0060] D) A pneumatic pump cycle counter comprising: [0061] a pneumatic pump comprising an air exhaust line in fluid communication with an air exhaust port, the air exhaust port in fluid communication with an outlet hose, the outlet hose in fluid communication with the atmosphere; [0062] an exhaust air pressure sensor in operative contact with air within the air exhaust line, the exhaust air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, exhaust air pressure; [0063] an ambient air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, ambient air pressure; and [0064] a processing unit in electronic communication with the ambient air pressure sensor and the exhaust air pressure sensor, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of ambient air pressure and exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure change between the concurrently measured ambient air pressure and the exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. [0065] E) The pneumatic pump cycle counter as in C) or D) wherein the pneumatic pump comprises an air inlet line in fluid communication with a compressed air feed, the compressed air feed having a valve, and wherein the processing unit is configured to receive signals comprising instructions to open or close the valve of the compressed air feed and to execute instructions to open or close the valve of the compressed air feed. [0066] F) The pneumatic pump cycle counter as in any one of A)-E) also comprising a transmitter configured to transmit signals, the signals indicative of a pump identifier and one or more pump cycle counts, optionally wherein: [0067] the pump identifier is a pump position; [0068] the signals also indicate the air inlet line pressure, the air inlet line pressure change, the air inlet line pressure changes over time, a time of measurement, a gas extraction well temperature, an ambient air temperature, a gas extraction well pressure, and/or a volume of liquid pumped; and/or [0069] the transmitter is configured to transmit signals via a wireless communication network. [0070] G) The pneumatic pump cycle counter as in F) also comprising a data repository to store signals after receipt from the transmitter, the signals comprising data representing a pump identifier and one or more pump cycle counts, and optionally wherein [0071] the signals comprise data representing the air inlet line pressure, the air inlet line pressure change, the air inlet line pressure changes over time, a time of measurement, a gas extraction well temperature, an ambient air temperature, a gas extraction well pressure, and/or a volume of liquid pumped; and/or [0072] the data repository is a cloud-based data storage system; and/or [0073] the data repository can be accessed via a webpage. [0074] H) The pneumatic pump cycle counter as in any one of A)-G) also comprising: [0075] one or more temperature sensors configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, a measured temperature; [0076] a gas extraction well pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, gas extraction well pressure; [0077] an atmospheric chemical sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, a concentration for each of one or more chemicals; and/or [0078] a gas extraction well chemical sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, a concentration for each of one or more chemicals. [0079] I) The pneumatic pump cycle counter as in H) wherein a temperature sensor to measure gas extraction well temperature is present; and/or wherein a temperature sensor to measure ambient air temperature is present. [0080] J) The pneumatic pump cycle counter as in H) wherein an atmospheric chemical sensor is present, and wherein the atmospheric chemical sensor senses methane and/or carbon monoxide; and/or wherein a gas extraction well chemical sensor is present, and wherein the gas extraction well chemical sensor senses carbon dioxide and/or oxygen. [0081] K) The pneumatic pump cycle counter as in J) wherein the atmospheric chemical sensor senses methane. [0082] L) The pneumatic pump cycle counter as in any one of A)-K) wherein the processing unit is configured to: [0083] receive signals comprising instructions to reset the pump cycle count to a selected value and to execute the instructions to reset the pump cycle count to a selected value; [0084] receive signals comprising instructions to open or close the valve of the compressed air feed and to execute the instructions to open or close the valve of the compressed air feed; and/or [0085] receive signals comprising instructions to turn the pneumatic pump on or off and to execute instructions to turn the pneumatic pump on or off. [0086] M) The pneumatic pump cycle counter as in any one of A)-L) wherein the processing unit is configured to continuously or periodically calculate a volume of liquid pumped based on the number of pump cycles counted, and wherein the pneumatic pump comprises a transmitter to transmit signals, the signals indicative of a pump identifier and i) a volume of liquid pumped through the main chamber of the pneumatic pump, and/or ii) a volume pumped that meets or exceeds a pre-selected value, optionally wherein the pump identifier is a pump position, and optionally wherein the signals also indicate the air inlet line pressure, the air inlet line pressure changes over time, a time of measurement, a gas extraction well temperature, an ambient air temperature, and/or a gas extraction well pressure. [0087] N) The pneumatic pump cycle counter as in any one of A)-M), which pneumatic pump cycle counter is associated with a subterranean well. [0088] O) The pneumatic pump cycle counter as in N) wherein the subterranean well is a gas extraction well. [0089] P) The pneumatic pump cycle counter as in O) wherein the gas extraction well is a landfill gas extraction well. [0090] Q) A method for assembling a pneumatic pump cycle counter, which method comprises: connecting an air inlet line to a pneumatic pump to provide fluid communication therebetween; [0091] connecting the air inlet line to a compressed air feed line to provide fluid communication therebetween; [0092] placing a pressure-reducing regulator inline and connecting the pressure-reducing regulator to the compressed air feed line and to the air inlet line to provide fluid communication between the pressure-reducing regulator and the compressed air feed line, and to provide fluid communication between the pressure-reducing regulator and the air inlet line; [0093] placing a piezoresistive sensor in operative contact with air within the air inlet line and proximate to the pressure-reducing regulator, the piezoresistive pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, air inlet line pressure, [0094] connecting a processing unit to the piezoresistive sensor for electronic communication, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of air inlet line pressure, and configured either [0095] a) to continuously or periodically calculate changes in the air inlet line pressure over time, and to extrapolate and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; or [0096] b) to continuously or periodically calculate a pressure change between the concurrently measured air inlet line pressure and a rolling average of previously measured air inlet line pressures and to continuously or periodically calculate air inlet line pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. [0097] R) A method for assembling a pneumatic pump cycle counter, which method comprises: connecting an air exhaust line to a pneumatic pump to provide fluid communication between the air exhaust line and the pneumatic pump; [0098] connecting the air exhaust line to an air exhaust port to provide fluid communication between the air exhaust line and the air exhaust port; [0099] connecting the air exhaust port to an outlet hose to provide fluid communication between the air exhaust port and the outlet hose, the outlet hose in fluid communication with the atmosphere; [0100] connecting an exhaust air pressure sensor in operative contact with air within the air exhaust line, the exhaust air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, exhaust air pressure; [0101] connecting a processing unit for electronic communication with the exhaust air pressure sensor, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure change between the concurrently measured exhaust air pressure and a rolling average of previously measured exhaust air pressures and to continuously or periodically calculate exhaust air pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. [0102] S) A method for assembling a pneumatic pump cycle counter, which method comprises: connecting an air exhaust line to a pneumatic pump to provide fluid communication between the air exhaust line and the pneumatic pump; [0103] connecting the air exhaust line to an air exhaust port to provide fluid communication between the air exhaust line and the air exhaust port; [0104] connecting the air exhaust port to an outlet hose to provide fluid communication between the air exhaust port and the outlet hose, the outlet hose in fluid communication with the atmosphere; [0105] connecting an exhaust air pressure sensor in operative contact with air within the air exhaust line, the exhaust air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, exhaust air pressure; [0106] connecting an ambient air pressure sensor to a processing unit for electronic communication, the ambient air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, ambient air pressure; and [0107] connecting the processing unit for electronic communication with the exhaust air pressure sensor, [0108] the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of ambient air pressure and exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure change between the concurrently measured ambient air pressure and the exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. [0109] T) The method as in any one of Q)-S) also comprising connecting a transmitter to the processing unit to place the transmitter in electronic communication with the processing unit, the transmitter configured to transmit signals, optionally wherein the transmitter is configured to transmit signals via a wireless communication network, such as an internet connection and/or via one or more cellular networks. [0110] U) The method as in T) also comprising connecting a data repository configured to store signals after receipt from the transmitter, optionally wherein the data repository is a cloud-based data storage system and/or the data repository can be accessed via a webpage. [0111] V) A method for obtaining pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump, which method comprises: [0112] generating pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump cycle counter comprised of i) a pneumatic pump comprising an air inlet line in fluid communication with a compressed air feed line, the compressed air feed line in fluid communication with an inline pressure-reducing regulator, the air inlet line in fluid communication with the pressure-reducing regulator and the pneumatic pump, a piezoresistive pressure sensor in operative contact with air within the air inlet line and proximate to the inline pressure-reducing regulator, the piezoresistive pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, air inlet line pressure, and ii) a processing unit in electronic communication with the piezoresistive pressure sensor, the generating comprising: [0113] measuring the air inlet line pressure with the piezoresistive sensor to produce a signal indicative of air inlet line pressure, [0114] transmitting the signals indicative of air inlet line pressure from the piezoresistive sensor to the processing unit, and [0115] receiving the signals indicative of air inlet line pressure in the processing unit, the processing unit continuously or periodically calculating either [0116] a) changes in the air inlet line pressure over time, and extrapolating and transmitting signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; or [0117] b) a pressure change between the concurrently measured air inlet line pressure and a rolling average of previously measured air inlet line pressures and continuously or periodically calculating air inlet line pressure changes over time, and extrapolating and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. [0118] W) A method for obtaining pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump, which method comprises: [0119] generating pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump cycle counter comprised of i) a pneumatic pump comprising an air exhaust line in fluid communication with an air exhaust port, the air exhaust port in fluid communication with an outlet hose, the outlet hose in fluid communication with the atmosphere; ii) an exhaust air pressure sensor in operative contact with air within the air exhaust line, the exhaust air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, exhaust air pressure; and iii) a processing unit in electronic communication with the exhaust air pressure sensor, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure change between the concurrently measured exhaust air pressure and a rolling average of previously measured exhaust air pressures and to continuously or periodically calculate exhaust air pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; the generating comprising [0120] measuring the exhaust air pressure with the exhaust air pressure sensor to produce signals indicative of the exhaust air pressure, [0121] transmitting the signals indicative of exhaust air pressure to the processing unit, [0122] receiving in the processing unit signals indicative of exhaust air pressure changes over time, and extrapolating, and transmitting signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. [0123] X) A method for obtaining pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump, which method comprises: [0124] generating pump cycle counts from a pneumatic pump cycle counter comprised of i) a pneumatic pump comprising an air exhaust line in fluid communication with an air exhaust port, the air exhaust port in fluid communication with an outlet hose, the outlet hose in fluid communication with the atmosphere; ii) an exhaust air pressure sensor in operative contact with air within the air exhaust line, the exhaust air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, exhaust air pressure; iii) an ambient air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, ambient air pressure; and iv) a processing unit in electronic communication with the ambient air pressure sensor and the exhaust air pressure sensor, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of ambient air pressure and exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure change between the concurrently measured ambient air pressure and the exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; [0125] the generating comprising [0126] measuring the exhaust air pressure with the exhaust air pressure sensor to produce signals indicative of the exhaust air pressure, [0127] measuring the ambient air pressure with the ambient air pressure sensor to produce signals indicative of the ambient air pressure, [0128] transmitting the signals indicative of exhaust air pressure and ambient air pressure to the processing unit, [0129] receiving in the processing unit signals indicative of exhaust air pressure and ambient air pressure, and calculating exhaust air pressure changes between the concurrently measured ambient air pressure and the exhaust air pressure and calculating an exhaust air pressure change over time, and extrapolating, and transmitting signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. [0130] Y) The method of any one of V)-X) also comprising transmitting signals via a transmitter, the transmitter configured to transmit signals, optionally wherein the transmitter is configured to transmit signals via a wireless communication network, such as an internet connection and/or via one or more cellular networks. [0131] Z) The method of Y) also comprising storing signals in a data repository configured to store signals after receipt from the transmitter, optionally wherein the data repository is a cloud-based data storage system and/or the data repository can be accessed via a webpage. [0132] AA) In a system for harvesting gas from a subterranean source, the system comprising one or more pneumatic pumps, an improvement which comprises a pneumatic pump cycle counter according to any one of A), C), or D) on one or more of the pneumatic pumps in the system. [0133] AB) In a system for harvesting gas from a landfill, the system comprising one or more pneumatic pumps, an improvement which comprises a pneumatic pump cycle counter according to A), C), or D) on one or more of the pneumatic pumps in the system. [0134] AC) The system as in any one of AA) or AB), comprising a subterranean well. [0135] AD) The system as in AC) wherein the subterranean well is a gas extraction well. [0136] AE) The system as in AD) wherein the gas extraction well is a landfill gas extraction well. [0137] AF) A system for obtaining pneumatic pump cycle counts, which system comprises: [0138] i) a pneumatic pump cycle counter comprising: [0139] a pneumatic pump comprising an air inlet line in fluid communication with a compressed air feed line, the compressed air feed line in fluid communication with an inline pressure-reducing regulator, the air inlet line in fluid communication with the pressure-reducing regulator and the pneumatic pump, a piezoresistive pressure sensor in operative contact with air within the air inlet line and proximate to the inline pressure-reducing regulator, the piezoresistive pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, air inlet line pressure, and [0140] a processing unit in electronic communication with the piezoresistive pressure sensor, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of air inlet line pressure, and configured either [0141] a) to continuously or periodically calculate changes in the air inlet line pressure over time, and to extrapolate and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; or [0142] b) to continuously or periodically calculate a pressure change between the concurrently measured air inlet line pressure and a rolling average of previously measured air inlet line pressures and to continuously or periodically calculate air inlet line pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; [0143] ii) a transmitter configured to transmit signals, the signals indicative of a pump identifier and one or more pump cycle counts; and [0144] ii) a data repository to store signals after receipt from the transmitter, the signals comprising data representing a pump identifier and one or more pump cycle counts. [0145] AG) A system for obtaining pneumatic pump cycle counts, which system comprises: [0146] i) a pneumatic pump cycle counter comprising: [0147] a pneumatic pump comprising an air exhaust line in fluid communication with an air exhaust port, the air exhaust port in fluid communication with an outlet hose, the outlet hose in fluid communication with the atmosphere; [0148] an exhaust air pressure sensor in operative contact with air within the air exhaust line, the exhaust air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, exhaust air pressure; [0149] a processing unit in electronic communication with the exhaust air pressure sensor, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure change between the concurrently measured exhaust air pressure and a rolling average of previously measured exhaust air pressures and to continuously or periodically calculate exhaust air pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; [0150] ii) a transmitter configured to transmit signals, the signals indicative of a pump identifier and one or more pump cycle counts; and [0151] ii) a data repository to store signals after receipt from the transmitter, the signals comprising data representing a pump identifier and one or more pump cycle counts. [0152] AH) A system for obtaining pneumatic pump cycle counts, which system comprises: [0153] i) a pneumatic pump cycle counter comprising: [0154] a pneumatic pump comprising an air exhaust line in fluid communication with an air exhaust port, the air exhaust port in fluid communication with an outlet hose, the outlet hose in fluid communication with the atmosphere; [0155] an exhaust air pressure sensor in operative contact with air within the air exhaust line, the exhaust air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, exhaust air pressure; [0156] an ambient air pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, ambient air pressure; and [0157] a processing unit in electronic communication with the ambient air pressure sensor and the exhaust air pressure sensor, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of ambient air pressure and exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure change between the concurrently measured ambient air pressure and the exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; [0158] ii) a transmitter configured to transmit signals, the signals indicative of a pump identifier and one or more pump cycle counts; and [0159] ii) a data repository to store signals after receipt from the transmitter, the signals comprising data representing a pump identifier and one or more pump cycle counts. [0160] AI) A pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus comprising: [0161] a piezoresistive pressure sensor configured for operative contact with air within an air inlet line of a pneumatic pump disposed within a well, the piezoresistive pressure sensor also configured for continuous or periodic measurement, and transmission of signals indicative of, the air inlet line pressure, and [0162] a processing unit configured for electronic communication with the piezoresistive pressure sensor, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of air inlet line pressure, and configured either [0163] a) to continuously or periodically calculate changes in the air inlet line pressure over time, and to extrapolate and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value; or [0164] b) to continuously or periodically calculate a pressure change between the concurrently measured air inlet line pressure and a rolling average of previously measured air inlet line pressures and to continuously or periodically calculate air inlet line pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of a pump cycle count therefrom when the air inlet line pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. [0165] AJ) The pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus as in AI) wherein the air inlet line is in fluid communication with a compressed air feed, the compressed air feed having a valve, and wherein the processing unit is configured to receive signals comprising instructions to open or close a valve of a compressed air feed of a pneumatic pump and to execute instructions to open or close a valve of a compressed air feed of a pneumatic pump. [0166] AK) A pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus comprising: [0167] an exhaust air pressure sensor configured for operative contact with air within an air exhaust line of a pneumatic pump disposed within a well, the exhaust air pressure sensor also configured for continuous or periodic measurement, and transmission of signals indicative of, exhaust air pressure; and [0168] a processing unit configured for electronic communication with the exhaust air pressure sensor, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure change between the concurrently measured exhaust air pressure and a rolling average of previously measured exhaust air pressures and to continuously or periodically calculate exhaust air pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. [0169] AL) A pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus comprising: [0170] an exhaust air pressure sensor configured for operative contact with air within an air exhaust line of a pneumatic pump disposed within a well, the exhaust air pressure sensor also configured for continuous or periodic measurement, and transmission of signals indicative of, exhaust air pressure; [0171] an ambient air pressure sensor configured for continuous or periodic measurement, and transmission of signals indicative of, ambient air pressure; and [0172] a processing unit configured for electronic communication with the ambient air pressure sensor and the exhaust air pressure sensor, the processing unit configured to receive the signals indicative of ambient air pressure and exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure change between a concurrently measured ambient air pressure and the exhaust air pressure and to continuously or periodically calculate an exhaust air pressure changes over time, and to extrapolate, and transmit signals indicative of, a pump cycle count therefrom when the exhaust air pressure change meets or exceeds a pre-selected value. [0173] AM) The pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus as in AK) or AL) wherein the processing unit is configured to receive signals comprising instructions to open or close a valve of a compressed air feed of a pneumatic pump and to execute instructions to open or close the valve of the compressed air feed. [0174] AN) The pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus as in any one of AI)-AM) also comprising a transmitter configured to transmit signals, the signals indicative of a pump identifier and one or more pump cycle counts, optionally wherein: [0175] the pump identifier is a pump position; [0176] the signals also indicate the air inlet line pressure, the air inlet line pressure change, the air inlet line pressure changes over time, a time of measurement, a gas extraction well temperature, an ambient air temperature, a gas extraction well pressure, and/or a volume of liquid pumped; and/or [0177] the transmitter is configured to transmit signals via a wireless communication network, such as an internet connection and/or via one or more cellular networks. [0178] AO) The pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus as in AN) also comprising a data repository to store signals after receipt from the transmitter, the signals comprising data representing a pump identifier and one or more pump cycle counts, and optionally wherein [0179] the signals comprise data representing the air inlet line pressure, the air inlet line pressure change, the air inlet line pressure changes over time, a time of measurement, a gas extraction well temperature, an ambient air temperature, a gas extraction well pressure, and/or a volume of liquid pumped; and/or [0180] the data repository is a cloud-based data storage system; and/or [0181] the data repository can be accessed via a webpage. [0182] AP) The pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus as in any one of AI)-AO) also comprising: [0183] one or more temperature sensors configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, a measured temperature; [0184] a gas extraction well pressure sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, gas extraction well pressure; [0185] an atmospheric chemical sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, a concentration for each of one or more chemicals; and/or [0186] a gas extraction well chemical sensor configured to continuously or periodically measure, and transmit signals indicative of, a concentration for each of one or more chemicals. [0187] AQ) The pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus as in AP) comprising a temperature sensor to measure gas extraction well temperature; and/or a temperature sensor to measure ambient air temperature. [0188] AR) The pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus as in AP) comprising an atmospheric chemical sensor, wherein the atmospheric chemical sensor senses methane and/or carbon monoxide; and/or a gas extraction well chemical sensor, wherein the gas extraction well chemical sensor senses carbon dioxide and/or oxygen. [0189] AS) The pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus as in AR) wherein the atmospheric chemical sensor senses methane. [0190] AT) The pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus as in any one of AI)-AS) wherein the processing unit is configured to: [0191] receive signals comprising instructions to reset the pump cycle count to a selected value and to execute the instructions to reset the pump cycle count to a selected value; [0192] receive signals comprising instructions to open or close the valve of the compressed air feed and to execute the instructions to open or close the valve of the compressed air feed; and/or [0193] receive signals comprising instructions to turn the pneumatic pump on or off and to execute instructions to turn the pneumatic pump on or off. [0194] AU) The pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus as in any one of AI)-AT) wherein the processing unit is configured to continuously or periodically calculate a volume of liquid pumped based on the number of pump cycles counted, and wherein the apparatus comprises a transmitter to transmit signals, the signals indicative of a pump identifier and i) a volume of liquid pumped through the main chamber of a pneumatic pump, and/or ii) a volume pumped that meets or exceeds a pre-selected value, optionally wherein the pump identifier is a pump position, and optionally wherein the signals also indicate the air inlet line pressure, the air inlet line pressure changes over time, a time of measurement, a gas extraction well temperature, an ambient air temperature, and/or a gas extraction well pressure. [0195] AV) The pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus as in any one of AI)-AU), which apparatus is associated with a subterranean well. [0196] AW) The pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus as in AV) wherein the subterranean well is a gas extraction well. [0197] AX) The pneumatic pump cycle counter apparatus as in AW) wherein the gas extraction well is a landfill gas extraction well. [0198] AY) A kit comprised of the apparatus of any one of AI)-AN) or AP)-AX).

[0199] The invention may comprise, consist, or consist essentially of the materials and/or procedures recited herein.

[0200] As used herein, the term about modifying the quantity of an ingredient in the compositions of the invention or employed in the methods of the invention refers to variation in the numerical quantity that can occur, for example, through typical measuring and liquid handling procedures used for making concentrates or use solutions in the real world; through inadvertent error in these procedures; through differences in the manufacture and/or source. Whether or not modified by the term about, the claims include equivalents to the quantities.

[0201] Except as may be expressly otherwise indicated, the article a or an if and as used herein is not intended to limit, and should not be construed as limiting, the description or a claim to a single element to which the article refers. Rather, the article a or an if and as used herein is intended to cover one or more such elements, unless the text expressly indicates otherwise.

[0202] This invention is susceptible to considerable variation in its practice. Therefore the foregoing description is not intended to limit, and should not be construed as limiting, the invention to the particular exemplifications presented hereinabove.