Overview

Neuregia is proud to introduce its cutting-edge Automated Water Irrigation System, an avant-garde solution meticulously engineered to revolutionize plant irrigation through intelligent automation and the strategic utilization of sustainable energy sources. This sophisticated system leverages advanced sensor technologies and adaptive algorithms to optimize water consumption by dynamically responding to real-time environmental variables, thereby ensuring the optimal health and vitality of plants while substantially minimizing resource wastage.

Key Features

Advanced Solar Power Integration & Battery Management System

At the core of the system lies a high-efficiency monocrystalline photovoltaic solar panel rated at 250W, harnessing solar energy with exceptional efficacy. The energy harvested is regulated by a sophisticated Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) solar charge controller, which optimizes the energy transfer from the solar panel to the energy storage system. The MPPT controller employs complex algorithms to continuously adjust the electrical operating point of the modules or array, ensuring maximum power output under varying conditions.

The energy storage subsystem utilizes a robust 12V/80Ah sealed lead-acid battery, selected for its reliability and deep-cycle capabilities. The battery management system (BMS) incorporates an advanced Constant Voltage/Constant Current (CV/CC) charging methodology, meticulously regulating the charging process. This dual-phase charging strategy initiates with a constant current phase to rapidly charge the battery, followed by a constant voltage phase to top off the charge, thereby enhancing battery longevity and maintaining optimal charging safety standards. The BMS is equipped with thermal management and overcharge protection mechanisms to prevent thermal runaway and prolong battery life.

Intelligent Power Distribution Architecture

The system features an innovative multi-tiered power distribution network that intelligently segments energy into multiple regulated output levels, including 12V, 5V, and 3.3V DC outputs. This architecture is realized through the implementation of high-efficiency DC-DC buck converters and linear voltage regulators, ensuring stable and precise voltage levels for powering an array of critical system components. These components include microcontrollers, sensor arrays, wireless communication modules, and electromechanical actuators. The intelligent power management system optimizes energy allocation based on real-time demand, enhancing overall system efficiency and reducing energy losses due to voltage conversion.

Dynamic Real-Time Environmental Monitoring and Adaptive Control

The system employs a network of advanced environmental sensors, including capacitive soil moisture sensors, ambient temperature and humidity sensors, and light intensity sensors (photodiodes and pyranometers). These sensors feed data into a high-performance microcontroller unit (MCU) equipped with a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 processor, processing the data using advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques.

The control algorithms utilize Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controllers and fuzzy logic systems to dynamically adjust the irrigation schedule and shading mechanisms. The system predicts evapotranspiration rates based on real-time weather data and historical patterns, ensuring precise water delivery that matches plant needs. Additionally, it integrates with meteorological data services via API to anticipate weather changes, such as impending rainfall, adjusting operations accordingly to prevent overwatering.

Robust Validation Through Comprehensive Simulation and Field Testing

The project underwent extensive validation through both simulation and empirical testing phases. Simulations were conducted using industry-standard software such as LTSpice for electronic circuit validation and MATLAB/Simulink for system-level modeling. Hardware prototypes were subjected to rigorous field testing under various environmental conditions to assess performance, reliability, and scalability. Testing protocols included accelerated life testing, thermal cycling, and electromagnetic compatibility assessments, ensuring compliance with relevant industry standards such as IEC 61000-4 for EMC.

This comprehensive evaluation underscores Neuregia’s commitment to delivering high-quality, effective solutions in agricultural technology, capable of withstanding real-world operational challenges.

Technical Characteristics and Results

System Block Diagram

The detailed system block diagram (Fig. 1) delineates the intricate architecture of the system. Key components include the high-efficiency solar panel, MPPT charge controller, advanced BMS with CV/CC charging methodology, and the intelligent power distribution network. The microcontroller interfaces with a suite of environmental sensors via analog and digital I/O interfaces and communicates with peripheral devices using protocols such as I²C, SPI, and UART.

Wireless communication is facilitated through integrated Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) modules, enabling seamless user interaction via a graphical user interface (GUI) on mobile devices. The water delivery system comprises solenoid valves controlled via pulse-width modulation (PWM) signals, and the shading system utilizes stepper motors for precise positioning of shade structures, all adjusted in real-time based on environmental inputs.

Battery Charging and Energy Management

Constant-Voltage/Constant-Current Charging Methodology

As illustrated in Fig. 2, the system employs a sophisticated CV/CC charging methodology. The charging process initiates with a bulk charge phase, delivering a constant current of up to 10A until the battery voltage reaches the absorption setpoint. Subsequently, the charger switches to a constant voltage phase, maintaining the voltage at 14.4V to allow the current to taper off naturally, ensuring the battery reaches full charge without overcharging. This method effectively balances charging efficiency with battery protection, significantly extending battery life and enhancing system reliability.

Simulated and Practical Results

Simulation data obtained from LTSpice (Fig. 3) demonstrate the smooth transition between constant-current and constant-voltage phases, validating the charger design and its compliance with the battery manufacturer’s specifications. Practical results obtained from prototype testing (Fig. 4) corroborate the simulation data, indicating consistent performance under real-world conditions. The charge controller maintains voltage and current within safe operating limits, and the thermal management system effectively dissipates heat generated during the charging process.

Hardware Design and PCB Layout

Capacitive Sensors Integration and PCB Optimization

Fig. 5 presents the meticulously designed PCB layout, optimized for minimal electromagnetic interference (EMI) and efficient signal integrity. The PCB incorporates a ground plane and strategically placed decoupling capacitors to minimize noise. The capacitive soil moisture sensors are integrated using high-resolution analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) with 16-bit resolution, providing precise measurements of soil moisture content.

The sensor circuitry includes guard rings and shielding to prevent capacitive coupling and ensure accurate data acquisition. The PCB design adheres to industry standards for trace width, spacing, and thermal management, facilitating reliable operation under varying environmental conditions.

Conclusion

Neuregia’s Automated Water Irrigation System epitomizes the confluence of innovation, sustainability, and advanced engineering, positioning it as a transformative solution in modern agriculture. By integrating sophisticated energy management systems, real-time environmental monitoring with predictive analytics, and rigorous validation through simulation and empirical testing, this system is poised to set new benchmarks in agricultural technology.

The system not only optimizes water usage and enhances plant health but also contributes to sustainable agricultural practices by leveraging renewable energy sources and advanced automation. Neuregia remains committed to pushing the boundaries of agricultural innovation, delivering solutions that are both technologically advanced and ecologically responsible.

For in-depth technical information or to discuss potential applications and customization, please contact Neuregia Solutions at Admin@neuragiasolutions.com or visit our website at https://neuregiasolutions.com.

Appendix

Figure A1: Automatic Irrigation System Block Diagram

Figure A2: Constant-Voltage Constant-Current Charging Characteristics Curve

Figure A3: LTSpice Constant-Voltage Constant-Current Charging Characteristics

Figure A4: Practical Results of Constant-Voltage Constant-Current Charging

Figure A5: PCB Layout for Capacitive Sensors

For further information or collaboration inquiries, please contact:

Neuregia Solutions

Email: Admin@neuregiasolutions.com

Website: https://neuregiasolutions.com