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Smart Irrigation Technology-Controllers and Sensors
Smart irrigation technology offers revolutionary solutions for the efficient use of water resources and the protection of plant health. The basic components of this technology include controllers and sensors. Controllers act as the brain of the irrigation system, while sensors collect soil moisture, weather, temperature and other environmental data. Controllers analyze this data from the sensors to determine the irrigation time and amount, thus ensuring that water reaches the plants exactly when they need it and in the right amount. Soil moisture sensors continuously monitor the moisture level in the root zone of the plants, while weather sensors measure precipitation, temperature and humidity, and sunlight sensors monitor the amount of sunlight the plants receive. These two components work together to optimize irrigation processes and provide water in the most appropriate way for the needs of the plants. As a result, smart irrigation technology prevents water waste, protects plant health and contributes to environmental sustainability.
How Does a Smart Irrigation System Work?
The working model of the smart irrigation system integrates advanced technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things), mobile internet, LORA (Long Range) and remote sensing monitoring. In these systems, automatic control valves are operated and managed remotely wirelessly. By providing the right amount of water to the plants according to soil type and weather conditions, more than 50% water saving and 30-40% energy saving are achieved from irrigation water. The working principle of the smart irrigation system is based on the integration of various technologies such as sensor technology, wireless automatic control technology and computer technology.
This system works by combining smart irrigation methods such as sprinkler irrigation and drip irrigation. The data obtained through soil moisture sensors, weather sensors and other environmental sensors are transmitted to the central control unit. The control unit analyzes this data and automatically adjusts the irrigation program. Thus, the water needed by the plants is provided at the right time and in the right amount. In addition, these systems are controlled remotely, minimizing the need for manual intervention and making irrigation operations more efficient. The smart irrigation system makes significant contributions to environmental sustainability by saving both water and energy and supports the healthy growth of plants.
Smart Irrigation-Controllers
Controllers are the central management units of the irrigation system and play a role in the effective and accurate management of irrigation processes. As Esular, we offer advanced controller systems that work with GSM and are used as central stations. These controllers provide up to 6 hours of uninterrupted operation even in the event of a power outage thanks to the rechargeable battery on them. In addition, they can read valves and sensors up to 10 km away and control them up to 5 km away, so the entire system has a completely expandable structure.
The controllers offered by Esular are equipped with 4 pump control outputs, 2 water meter inputs and 2 4-20 ampere pressure sensor inputs. These features allow users to monitor and manage their irrigation systems in detail. In cases such as excessive pressure or power outages, alerts can be created and these alerts are notified via SMS, so users are informed immediately. Our controllers support up to 128 valves and sensors and up to 64 in-device automatic tasks can be added. These features increase the efficiency of the irrigation system and provide customized and automated solutions according to the needs of users. At Esular, we are proud to offer advanced technologies that increase the efficiency and reliability of modern irrigation systems, contribute to environmental sustainability and support the healthy growth of plants.
Smart Irrigation-Sensors
Smart irrigation systems use advanced sensor technologies to efficiently use water resources and maintain plant health. These sensors allow irrigation systems to collect and analyze environmental data, thus optimizing irrigation processes and adjusting them according to the needs of the plants. Here are the main sensors used in smart irrigation systems:
Pressure Sensors
Pressure sensors continuously monitor the water pressure in the irrigation system. These sensors measure pressure levels and send data to the controller, and when necessary, adjust the pressure of the system to prevent damage in cases of excessive pressure. They also ensure that the system operates efficiently in cases of low pressure.
Soil Moisture Sensors
Soil moisture sensors continuously monitor the moisture level in the root zone of the plants. These sensors measure the water content of the soil and send data to the controller. The controller analyzes this data and adjusts the irrigation time and amount. Thanks to soil moisture sensors, the plants are given as much water as necessary and water waste is prevented. In addition, water stress is prevented for plants, thus ensuring healthy and productive growth.
Ambient Humidity and Temperature Sensors
Ambient humidity and temperature sensors allow the irrigation system to accurately monitor environmental conditions. These sensors measure air temperature and humidity and transmit data to the controller. This data helps adjust irrigation programs according to environmental conditions so that the plants’ water needs are met in the most appropriate way.
EC and pH Sensors
Electrical conductivity (EC) and pH sensors monitor water and soil quality. EC sensors measure the salinity level of irrigation water, while pH sensors determine the acidity or alkalinity of water. This data is used to provide ideal water and soil conditions for optimal plant growth.
Rainfall Sensors
Rainfall sensors measure the amount of rain and send data to the irrigation system. These sensors automatically stop irrigation when it rains, saving water. Rainfall sensors also allow for more precise irrigation program adjustments.
- Wind Speed and Direction Sensors
Wind speed and direction sensors measure the speed and direction of the wind. This data is used to prevent water waste during irrigation. For example, irrigation can be delayed or adjusted in strong wind conditions.
- Pool and Well Level Sensors
Pool and well level sensors monitor the water level at the source of irrigation water. These sensors send an alert to the controller if the water level drops and ensure that the necessary measures are taken. This supports the sustainable use of water resources.
- Solar Radiation Sensors
Solar radiation sensors monitor the amount of sunlight that plants receive and optimize irrigation programs based on this data. The water needs of the plants are determined according to the amount of sunlight and irrigation times are adjusted. These sensors support the photosynthesis process of the plants and ensure that water is used most efficiently.
- CO2 Sensors
CO2 sensors monitor the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the air and send data to the controller. This data is vital for the photosynthesis process of plants. High CO2 levels can increase the growth rate of plants and support productivity. In addition to irrigation schedules, CO2 data can also be used to optimize the overall health and growing conditions of plants.
Akıllı Sulama Sistemlerinin Faydaları
Smart irrigation systems offer many advantages over traditional irrigation methods. Here are some of the benefits of smart irrigation systems:
- Smart irrigation systems determine the need for irrigation by continuously monitoring soil moisture and environmental conditions through sensors. In this way, water is given at the right time and in the right amount, unnecessary water consumption is prevented and water is saved.
- Optimal irrigation increases efficiency by increasing the nutrient intake and photosynthesis efficiency of plants.
- Less water use and less energy consumption reduce irrigation costs. In addition, labor costs are reduced as the need for manual labor is reduced.
- Preventing water waste and using water correctly reduces the impact on the environment.
- Smart irrigation systems offer remote access and control via internet connection. This feature allows business owners to monitor, adjust and control the system from any location.
- Data from sensors allows for more informed irrigation schedules and plant management. Data analysis helps make future irrigation plans and agricultural decisions more accurately.
- Smart irrigation systems can support various irrigation methods such as sprinkler irrigation, drip irrigation and combine these methods efficiently.
These benefits allow smart irrigation systems to be considered as an important solution in agricultural production, garden maintenance and various irrigation needs. The continuous development of systems with technological advances has significant potential to increase agricultural efficiency and sustainability.