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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 main 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 coming from sensors and determine irrigation timing and amount, ensuring water reaches plants exactly when they need it and in the necessary amount. Soil moisture sensors constantly monitor the moisture level in the root zone of plants, weather sensors monitor rain, temperature, and humidity, and sunlight sensors monitor the amount of sunlight plants receive. These two components work together to optimize irrigation processes and provide the water that best suits the plants' needs. 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 a smart irrigation system combines advanced technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things), mobile internet, LORA (Long Range), and remote sensing monitoring. In these systems, automatic control valves are controlled remotely and wirelessly. By providing plants with the necessary amount of water according to soil type and weather conditions, savings of more than 50% in irrigation water and 30-40% in energy are achieved. The working principle of a 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. Data obtained through soil moisture sensors, weather sensors, and other environmental sensors is transmitted to the central control unit. The control unit analyzes this data and automatically adjusts the irrigation schedule. Thus, the water needed by the plants is provided at the right time and in the right amount. Additionally, 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 control units of the irrigation system and play a role in the efficient and precise management of irrigation processes. As Esular, we offer advanced controller systems that work with GSM and are used as central stations. Thanks to the rechargeable battery on these controllers, they ensure continuous operation for up to 6 hours even in the event of a power outage. Furthermore, it can read valves and sensors from a distance of up to 10 km and control them from a distance of up to 5 km, which makes the entire system fully expandable.
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 control their irrigation systems in detail. You can create warnings in cases such as excessive pressure or power failure, and since these warnings are notified via SMS, users are informed instantly. Our controllers support up to 128 valves and sensors, and up to 64 on-board automated tasks can be added. These features increase the efficiency of the irrigation system and provide personalized and automated solutions tailored to users' needs. As 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 for the efficient use of water resources and the protection of plant health. These sensors allow irrigation systems to collect and analyze environmental data so that irrigation processes are optimized and adapted to the needs of plants. The main sensors used in smart irrigation systems are:
Pressure Sensors
Pressure sensors constantly monitor the water pressure in the irrigation system. These sensors measure pressure levels, send data to the controller, and adjust the system pressure when necessary, preventing damage in cases of excessive pressure. Additionally, it ensures the efficient operation of the system in low-pressure situations.
Soil Moisture Sensors
Soil moisture sensors constantly monitor the moisture level in the root zone of 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, plants are given as much water as they need, and water waste is prevented. Additionally, plants are prevented from experiencing water stress, thus ensuring healthy and productive growth.
Ambient Humidity and Temperature Sensors
Ambient humidity and temperature sensors allow the irrigation system to precisely monitor environmental conditions. These sensors measure air temperature and humidity and transmit the data to the controller. This data helps adjust irrigation programs according to environmental conditions, thus optimally meeting the plants' water needs.
EC and pH Sensors
Electrical conductivity (EC) and pH sensors monitor the quality of water and soil. EC sensors measure the salinity level of the irrigation water, while pH sensors determine the acidity or alkalinity level of the water. This data is used to provide ideal water and soil conditions for optimal plant development.
Rain Sensors
Rain sensors measure the amount of rain and send the data to the irrigation system. Thanks to these sensors, irrigation can be automatically stopped when it rains, and water can be saved. Additionally, rain sensors allow for more precise adjustment of irrigation schedules.
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 the irrigation water. These sensors send a warning to the controller if the water level drops and ensure that necessary precautions are taken. This supports the sustainable use of water resources.
Solar Radiation Sensors
Solar radiation sensors monitor the amount of sunlight received by plants and optimize irrigation schedules based on this data. Depending on the amount of sunlight, the plants' water needs are determined and irrigation durations are adjusted. These sensors support the plants' photosynthesis process and ensure the most efficient use of water.
CO2 Sensors
CO2 sensors monitor the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the air and send the data to the controller. This data is crucial for the plants' photosynthesis process. High CO2 levels can increase the growth rate of plants and support productivity. Apart from irrigation schedules, CO2 data can also be used to optimize the general health and growth conditions of plants.
Benefits of Smart Irrigation Systems
Smart irrigation systems offer many advantages compared to traditional irrigation methods. Some advantages of smart irrigation systems include:
- Smart irrigation systems determine irrigation needs by constantly monitoring soil moisture and environmental conditions through sensors. Thus, water is provided at the right time and in the right amount, preventing unnecessary water consumption and saving water.
- Optimal irrigation increases productivity by increasing plants' nutrient uptake and photosynthesis efficiency.
- Less water use and less energy consumption reduce irrigation costs. Additionally, as the need for manual labor decreases, labor costs also decrease.
- Preventing water waste and correct water use reduces environmental impact.
- Smart irrigation systems offer remote access and control via internet connection. This feature allows business owners to monitor, adjust, and manage the system from anywhere.
- Data received from sensors allows irrigation programs and plant management to be carried out more consciously. Data analysis helps in making future irrigation plans and farming decisions more accurately.
- Smart irrigation systems can support various irrigation methods such as sprinkler irrigation, drip irrigation and combine these methods efficiently.
These advantages allow smart irrigation systems to be accepted as an important solution in agricultural production, garden maintenance, and various irrigation needs. Along with technological progress, the continuous improvement of systems has significant potential to increase agricultural productivity and sustainability.
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