Precision irrigation system (PIS) using sensor network technology integrated with IOS/Android application

Abstract

One of the most important factors for successful agricultural production is the irrigation system in place. In this study, a precision irrigation system, which takes advantage of the various phases of plant growth, was developed and implemented using the sensor network technology integrated with IOS/Android. The amount of water in the soil was measured via sensors that were placed on certain points of the area to be irrigated. These sensors were placed near the root of the product. Data from sensors was transmitted via Wi-Fi in real-time to a mobile phone based on IOS/Android. In the light of obtained data, the seasonal precision irrigation system was created depending on the amount of water required by the plants at each stage of their growth stage. The required energy of the system was provided by solar energy. The system can be controlled by smart phones, which increases the usability of the system. When design performance was analyzed, it was observed that some important advantages such as obtaining high efficiency with water, time and energy saving and reducing the workforce were ensured. Five separate laterals were used for the irrigation system. There were valves on each lateral, which realized the opening and closing process depending on the water need. A total of 16 humidity sensors were used in the irrigation system and the data from these sensors was transferred to the IOS/Android server via the programmable controller (PLC). The basic electrical equipment in the irrigation system was monitored and controlled via mobile devices. Control parameters were obtained by comparing the real values and reference values by a closed-loop system and determine the new working status of the irrigation system. © 2017 by the authors.