Pivot optimiser

The idea:

An IOT monitoring and control system for centre pivots and pumps used in irrigation. How it works: Pivot optimiser performs local control functions (which can keep working with no internet connection) and transmits all measured data to a web server. Settings are entered on the web server. The system saves energy (around 25 per cent) by regulating the pump pressure as the pivot moves up and down hills. Pump efficiency is continuously monitored, allowing wear to be detected and maintenance scheduled. Physically, it consists of a main unit (electronics plus firmware) installed in the pump house with a radio link to remote units installed on the pivot.

The remote units are powered by a solar panel and measure the pressure of the pivot using pressure sensors. The system monitors water use and is a tool for farmers to reduce water consumption. SMS alerts are sent to operators. Who is it for: Farmers with centre pivots who need to reduce water and energy consumption. There are 20 000 centre pivots installed in South Africa. Each one has a pump and motor. The motors range from 22 to 75 kw in size and form a major percentage of the country’s energy consumption. Agriculture is a major water consumer in South Africa. The system will also allow the efficiency of any pump to be monitored, which greatly expands the scope of its application into mining. Two Anglo American pumps rated at 450 kw each are now being monitored by the system.

There are a couple of competitor systems, but none are IOT systems, and none achieve the same energy saving. Roll- out is intended in the agriculture- and mining sectors here and elsewhere in southern Africa, as well as in Australia, New Zealand and the US.