Automatically Turning your Taps
Recently in Central NSW we were approached to see if instead of turning a pump or engine on and off we could instead turn the tap on and off. This particular property gets its stock water from the local water scheme and so the pump and water supply isn't really their problem. However automatically, and remotely (if needed) turning the valve on is what they were looking for.
With the control outputs at its disposal, the EcoSAT product effectively tackled a significant challenge, at least in theory. The primary obstacle lay in identifying a solenoid control valve that could operate without draining the battery. Through the strategic use of a solenoid control valve tailored to its needs, the EcoSAT was able to function optimally by pulsing the valve on and off, thereby conserving power during idle periods. This innovative approach not only met the customer's requirements but also eliminated the need for extra components such as external power sources, chargers, batteries, or larger solar panels. By leveraging this efficient control mechanism, the EcoSAT demonstrated its ability to deliver on its promises without compromising on performance or sustainability.
Most of the setup was completed before the EcoSAT was shipped to the customer. All we really needed to know was the tank level at which the valve should open and begin filling the tank, and where it should shut off again. Minor adjustments after this can be easily made on the website and downloaded into the EcoSAT allowing it to make snap descisions without the interaction of anyone, but of course if you want to force it open or closed, you can.
The picture below shows that the customer added a condition that would only allow the valve to operate between 7AM and 5PM - making sure that there was enough water perssure at home for the garden and other things.
Now all they needed to do was sit back and watch the system take care of things for him. The automated system in place efficiently managed the tank level, as depicted in the detailed graph below. The graph illustrates the subtle fluctuations in the tank level, showcasing the precision and accuracy of the system. From the early hours of the morning, the valve was seen operating seamlessly, ensuring that the tank was topped up before the busy lunchtime period. This level of automation not only saved time and effort but also provided a sense of reliability and control over the process. By entrusting the system to handle these tasks, it allowed for a more streamlined and efficient workflow, allowing individuals to focus on other important aspects of their work without worrying about manual interventions. The seamless operation of the system, as evidenced by the graph, highlights the benefits of leveraging technology to optimize processes and enhance productivity.