AWD Irrigation Pump Control via Wireless Depth Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) practices in irrigated fields, such as rice paddies, require manual and constant monitoring of water levels, which is tedious and can negatively impact yields.
Innovation Solution
An AWD method and system utilizing wireless water depth sensors and pump controllers that automatically control irrigation by enabling or disabling pumps based on predetermined threshold depths, reducing the need for manual monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual monitoring of water levels is used in AWD practice, then farmers can control irrigation, but the process is tedious and requires constant monitoring which can negatively impact yields
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automation where the irrigation system monitors and controls water levels autonomously. Water depth sensors continuously measure soil moisture, and the controller automatically activates or deactivates pumps based on predetermined thresholds, eliminating the need for manual monitoring while maintaining optimal irrigation levels for yield protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback through water depth sensors that measure soil moisture levels and transmit data to the controller. The controller processes this feedback information and automatically adjusts pump operation to maintain water levels within optimal ranges, creating a closed-loop control system that responds dynamically to field conditions.
2Extent of automation
If automated sensing and control systems are implemented, then manual monitoring is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated irrigation system is divided into independent, modular components: water depth sensors for measurement, wireless communication modules for data transmission, a controller for decision-making, and pumps for water delivery. Each component performs a specific function and can be independently selected, installed, and maintained, reducing overall system complexity while achieving full automation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution automates the irrigation process, saving water, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and maintaining yield rates by ensuring optimal water levels are maintained without manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting the sensed water depth to a pump controller located remotely from the sensing location using a wireless connection
Implementation Method 2
at least one pump each comprising an inlet connected to the water source, an outlet supplying water to the field
Data Source
AI summary
An Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) method/system for irrigating a field using a pump comprising an outlet supplying water to the field and an inlet connected to a water source is disclosed. The method/system comprises a sensor placed at a location in the field for sensing a water depth below a surface of the field and transmitting the water depth to a controller located remotely from the sensing location using a wireless connection. The controller enables the pump when the sensed water depth is below a threshold depth and disables the pump when the sensed water depth is above a threshold depth.