Automatic control of irrigation systems aiming at high energy efficiency in rice crops

Abstract

This paper presents a complete solution for the automated irrigation of rice crops using water level sensors, remote supervision system (SCADA) and wireless communication (GPRS). The proposed system is tested in four irrigation areas of small scale (10m × 20m). Ultrasonic sensors are used to measure the water level in the field. The control of the crop conditions is done by a dedicated controller, which eliminates the need for a computer on site. In addition, the controller has an interface that allows access to its parameters and also switching over to a standard operation in case of loss of communication with the supervisory system. The main result of this work is the efficient use of water and electricity on the farm.