Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to apparatus and methods for a fluid collection system and automated fluid flow monitoring. The system can include a collection container, and a detection device coupled to an outside surface thereof and configured to detect a volume of fluid disposed therein. The detection device can be coupled to the collection container without having to compromise the integrity of the closed fluid collection system or re-catheterizing the patient. The detection device can be configured to detect an inversion event, tilt event, and the like to determine a flow rate of fluid into the container. The detection device can be communicatively coupled with external computing devices to alert a clinician when the container is nearing capacity and when it has been emptied.