As mentioned in previous articles, soil irrigation is a very important aspect of agriculture, as it reduces the risk of crop loss (frost and drought resistance). In the second article, we discussed the solution developed to automate the guidance of Valley Irrigation’s central irrigation pivot, namely the RTK GPS design.
This product is an ultra-precise GPS system (1 cm accuracy) that enables automated guidance of linear spans and corners to ensure uniform watering and prevent pivot breakage.
The problematic
Once the pivot steering improvement had been resolved, Valley Irrigation wanted to improve tower motor control, as well as sprinkler control. In fact, still with the aim of improving span trajectory, enabling automatic on/off mode would be optimal in the event of deviation.
Valley Irrigation also wanted to automate sprinkler management to enable super-precise watering, as well as having the option of extending certain fertilizers. Inconsistent watering can lead to significant crop losses and wasted water, which is undesirable for farmers.
The solution
With the PLC system in place, it was easy to enhance the existing automation by adding more sensors and connecting them to the existing system. To enable sprinkler control for precise watering and easy maintenance, we needed two things: GPS location (already solved) and sprinkler mapping.
In collaboration with Valley Irrigation, we developed the VRI-iS nozzle. Equipped with the electronic card we designed, each nozzle would have a serial number. This would enable the farmer to target the problematic sprinkler, as well as visualizing its location on the map. The electronic card could also be used to control sprinkler start-up according to soil condition (whether already irrigated or not), as well as the precise application of fertilizer products.
For the wheel motor control, we needed GPS localization, which had already been set up. Again in collaboration with Valley Irrigation, we developed the Valley Tower Box Enhanced. With the motor now controlled electronically, maintenance of each motor would be reduced, and braking and start/stop functions automated.
The results
Automation of sprinkler and wheel motor control has enabled Valley Irrigation to offer farmers an all-in-one solution. Farmers are now able to control various wheel and sprinkler functions, reducing maintenance time. Automated watering also saves water, preventing wastage and enabling Valley Irrigation to offer an eco-responsible solution.
These modifications to the central pivot marked the end of our mandate to upgrade Valley Irrigation’s central pivot. Now equipped with a complete solution, farmers are able to improve the irrigation efficiency of their soil, as well as having real-time remote control.
Rational Minds (RMDS Innovation)
Do you have a project idea in mind, but lack the expertise to realize it, or would you like to accelerate your development process? Contact us today and we’ll be happy to assess your needs and work with you to bring your project to fruition.
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