Department - Author 1
Electrical Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Electrical Engineering
Date
3-2010
Primary Advisor
James G. Harris
Abstract/Summary
This report discusses the applications of an Irrigation Controller with Wi-Fi connectivity, with focus on cost-effectiveness and usability. It addresses the amount to which traditional irrigation is wasteful, and proposes solutions to solve this problem. Methods for using online weather data resources to increase efficiency of residential landscaping are discussed in depth. Included is the procedural development of an irrigation controller using the Microchip Explorer 16 Development Board and TCP/IP Stack. Also discussed is web hosting and use of the scripting language PHP, and database MySQL. This project found inexpensive means for providing HTTP and FTP services. Results indicate an easy to use, simplistic user experience. The site's pages provide the only control of the Irrigator and is a good tool for creating efficient irrigation schedules, either automatically or manually. Also, the use of Evapotranspiration showed water savings when compared with models of average residential water use, especially in wet seasons. In summary, further development is necessary to make it a marketable product. Ideas for expanding upon it are included.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/eesp/22