Persian Gulf University | Smart Water Monitoring

Project Overview

In 2018, 21 water meters at Persian Gulf University were equipped with smart real-time water consumption monitoring systems. This initiative enabled the management to monitor water usage across various units in real-time and prevent water wastage by identifying underground pipe leaks. The system was developed based on the LoRaWAN network.

Ronika is a knowledge-based company that creates customized smart products and services using modern technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, digital twins, and more. One of Ronika's key solutions is smart energy systems, which provide real-time monitoring and control of water, electricity, and gas consumption.

Project Objectives

In today's world, with growing concerns about water crises and population growth, effective water resource management has become one of the most significant challenges for societies. Universities and government institutions should not only focus on improving resource consumption but also serve as models for other sectors. Therefore, implementing smart water consumption monitoring systems in these institutions is crucial. These systems provide managers with real-time data on water usage, allowing them to quickly address potential issues such as leaks or unnecessary consumption. By utilizing IoT and similar technologies, these systems monitor water usage in real time and generate accurate reports, helping to reduce wastage and optimize consumption.

These systems can analyze water consumption across various areas of the institution, pinpointing where usage is highest. This information helps managers make informed decisions about resource allocation and optimizing consumption. Furthermore, this technology can be used to educate students and staff on the importance of water conservation. By implementing these systems, institutions can reduce costs, protect natural resources, and serve as an advanced model for sustainable development.

Key Results and Achievements

• Real-time monitoring of university water consumption

• Identification of high and low consumption areas

• Detection of leaks and underground pipe breaks

• Increased user awareness of consumption patterns

• Positive feedback from officials

• Reduced costs from excessive water use

Project Implementation

Recognizing the need for better water management, Ronika developed a smart water consumption monitoring system. In the fall and winter of 2019, she collaborated with Persian Gulf University in Bushehr to equip 21 water meters with this system. Pulse water meters were installed across various faculties and areas of the university campus, and these meters were fitted with smart nodes. In addition to measuring water flow, the smart nodes calculate and report daily water consumption for each meter.

A long-range, low-power wireless network has been established using LoRa gateways, which have a range of up to two kilometers. This network facilitates wireless data exchange between various hardware and software components. The gateways are designed for outdoor use, enabling seamless information transfer within the smart water consumption monitoring system.

The software component displays water consumption and flow rates through time-based charts and Excel reports within an application, allowing university managers to make data-driven decisions. Analysis of the data extracted from this system revealed an imbalance between incoming and outgoing water at Persian Gulf University. This led to the detection of underground pipe breaks and significantly reduced water wastage.

This project aligns with Persian Gulf University's green management goals and was showcased at the third exhibition of executive achievements from universities, educational centers, research centers, and science and technology parks in the field of green management. The exhibition was organized by the Program and Budget Organization in October 2019.

Technical Solutions Provided

• 21 smart nodes to read water flow from water meters

• LoRaWAN gateway with a 2-kilometer range

• Online software for collecting, processing, and displaying information

• Training for staff and managers

Exhibitions and Events

• The Second International Green University Conference - Isfahan University – May 2019

• The Third Exhibition of Executive Achievements of Universities, Educational Centers, Research Centers, and Science and Technology Parks in the Field of Green Management - Program and Budget Organization, Tehran – October 2019

• The Research Week Exhibition – Persian Gulf University, Bushehr – December 2019