This project installed 4 electronic water meters, 3 field controllers, and a weather station in efforts to make real time programming adjustments to irrigation programs for the West Front of campus. The installations improve the accuracy in interpreting the West Front micro climate, reduce water consumption, prevent over/under watering, and quickly and accurately identify irrigation problems in the field.
Accomplishments
Weather Station
• From the beginning, the scope of the project has continued to expand as new users were added to the ICC system. A "smart", remote, and centrally controlled irrigation system allows other departments to "do more with less“. • With new software upgrades, multiple users may login remotely and simultaneously. • With the installation of the hydrometers and field controllers, irrigation and non-irrigation usage can be collected. • With the installation of the weather station at the campus West Front, we can confirm different micro climates and different watering needs for the West Front versus the central campus. • SMS texting provides simple 24/7/365 alerts or alarms for monitoring and control of the irrigation system. • SMS texts accurately pinpoints problems; trouble shooting irrigation problems are easily recognized and quickly repaired. SMS example: Fail High Flow (45.167 G) in Irrigation Program (G006) (32) Field Unit West Front - M
By the Numbers • From 2006-2012, the price of water increased by 47.4%. • On Feb 27, 2013 Mulford Hall’s irrigation water was conserved by 64%.
• Emergencies can be handled with just a few taps; saving $300 in overtime payments. • 24/7/365 alerts.
Mulford Hall Weather Station Irrigation Factor 60
50
40
30 Irrigation Percentage 20
10
0
* Lost Communication on 3/9/2013 – 3/11/2013 & 3/24/2013
Irrigation Central Command
iPad for Remote Access
Arad Hydrometer
Mulford Hall’s Arad Hydrometer
Acknowledgements: Katherine Walsh, TGIF Phil Giebel, Central Control Systems Matthew Wolter , PPCS Lead Irrigation Plumber Arturo Ventura, PPCS Irrigation Plumber Sam Lico, PPCS Irrigation Plumber Al Vera, Capital Projects Programmer Gary Imazumi, PPCS Grounds Manager