Developing a Controller for Managing Delivery of Water and Chemicals for Small and Mid-Size Farms

Developing a Controller for Managing Delivery of Water and Chemicals for Small and Mid-Size FarmsProject SummaryPD: Raney, Eddie Neil, MBA Institution: Raney Electronics LLCCO-PD: Boles, Joe Scott Institution: Diversity DCO-PD: Fipps, Guy PhD, P.E. Institution: Texas A&M UniversityCO-PD: Huffaker, Scott Institution: Grassland Water SupplyCO-PD: Lamm, Freddie Ray, Ph.D., P.E. Institution: Lamm EngineeringAgriculture uses 70% of the world's accessible freshwater, but some 60% of this is wasted as reported by world wildlife [8].The Phase 1 implementation of a controller with text reporting and control of remote relays via radio communication will go a long way in providing greater control over water usage while easing the burden of high cost and maintenance problems associated with current irrigation systems. Radio communication will lessen the need for wiring and reduce the points of failure. SMS text commands to configure and manage the controller will be an added benefit reducing the need for an onsite presence. The new model of controller for managing delivery of water and chemicals for small and mid-size farms will reduce the total system's cost while enhancing lead time for system maintenance.Every drop of water and chemicals used counts. The proposed controller will greatly enhance the stewardship of these resources. Acceptance of the cell phone as a real time communication device should be high due to the fact that, "ownership among adults has exceeded 90%" according to Rainie [3].Later versions of the controller are scheduled to support data collection in the cloud for detailed analysis of items such as gallons of irrigation provided, salinity levels, pH levels, fertilizer dispensed, plant stress levels, moisture levels, temperature, dew point and humidity trends. The analysis of such data will aid in future decision making.The anticipated result is that applying real time control over resources with the historical data to back up the decision making process greatly enhances the stewardship of the environment as a whole, thus, making the world a better place to live. So hopefully your great grandchildren can enjoy a clear drink of water.