Welcome to the future of agriculture - the Smart Farm. Imagine a place where all Irricontrol products work in harmony, creating the perfect setting for communication and monitoring.
1. Mesh Network Concept
The operation of a Smart Farm is based on the concept of a Mesh Network, in which connected devices (nodes or information points) have the ability to communicate with each other. Within this network model, if a path between two nodes is interrupted, a reorganization occurs to establish a new path for communication.
In the case of Irricontrol’s Mesh Network, the equipment used for communication is the XBee radio, which is utilized in the Central, Irripump, Level Meter, SPOTi, and GPS Kit.
2. Components and Structures
2.1 Central
Usually located at the farm headquarters, we have the Central, always connected to the internet, receiving information from the products and initiating operations with a simple radio signal. The importance of the Central is to ensure data exchange between the radios in the Irricontrol network and the Irricontrol Platform. It is generally installed in an accessible and easy-to-maintain location to ensure good connectivity with the repeaters and other equipment in the network.
2.2 Bivolt Repeater
The repeater’s function is to extend the connectivity of the Irricontrol network to more distant locations. The bivolt repeater, also known as a plug-in repeater, is powered by the farm’s electrical network and is essential for some installations. Through the connection with the central unit, the signal propagated by it is then spread to the other equipment in the network by the repeaters installed on the farm.
The repeaters are installed at high points to ensure a quality line of sight with the other equipment.
2.3 Solar Repeater
Like the bivolt repeater, the solar-powered version has the same function. The advantage is that it does not require power from the farm’s electrical network, making it essential for some installations.
Like the central unit, the repeaters are also installed at high points to ensure a quality line of sight with the other equipment.
2.4 Control Panel
Responsible for the overall command of the pivots, Irricontrol panels ensure efficient and safe control of central pivots. The first example is the SmartConnect, a panel available for Bauer pivots, containing all of Irricontrol’s automation technology with both digital and analog functionality in a single panel, enabling fully remote control through the Irricontrol Platform
For the Nexus product, it is used to ensure efficient and safe remote control of central pivots with the help of the Irricontrol Platform. It can be installed on any brand and model of pivot, bringing more agility in the field.
Both types of panels constantly communicate with the GPS on the last tower, ensuring precise information about the pivot’s positioning.
2.5 GPS Kit
Comprising the Irrimesh and GPS, this kit is responsible for monitoring and bringing the pivot’s connectivity to the Irricontrol Platform.
The GPS KIT consists of: GPS + Irrimesh radio + pressure sensor (optional), so there are two types of GPS KIT: with pressure sensor and without pressure sensor.
The Irrimesh radio is usually installed at the center of the pivot, while the GPS is positioned on the last tower of the pivot.
The importance of a good connection between the GPS on the last tower and the controller ensures important information about the pivot’s position to be displayed on the Irricontrol Platform.
2.6 SPOTi
Considered a peripheral device, the SPOTi is responsible for remotely turning on the pivot pump. The purpose of this equipment is to replace the pump control cable when Irricontrol control panels with automation are already in place. In specific cases, this cable can be damaged by machinery, making replacement difficult as it is an underground cable.
The best solution is automation through SPOTi, avoiding any problems caused by cable damage.
2.7 Level Meter
Through a sensor, the product has the ability to measure the level of reservoirs, rivers, and wells. The goal is to control the water flow to be used from the reservoirs, ensuring there is no shortage during times of need.
2.8 Irripump
We use the Irripump to monitor the intake pumps, allowing remote commands. It works in conjunction with the level meter, providing insights on when to pump water again through the Irricontrol Platform.
2.9 and 2.10 Irricontrol Platform and User/Client
The data obtained from all sensing is stored in the cloud, so the client can access information and obtain accurate reports through the Irricontrol Platform. The platform’s goal is to ensure total control and monitoring of the equipment through a mobile app in a simple, easy, and intuitive way.