Sustainable irrigation system with BPNN-PID controlled tesla valves
A smart irrigation solution using Thermally Actuated Tesla Valve Arrays and treated wastewater, controlled by a BPNN-PID algorithm for efficient water use in agriculture. Ideal for water-stressed regions like Texas.
Overview
This innovative irrigation system is designed to address water scarcity challenges in regions like Texas by utilizing treated wastewater and advanced control technologies. The system employs Thermally Actuated Tesla Valve Arrays (TATVA) controlled by a hybrid BPNN-PID algorithm, allowing for real-time adjustments to irrigation flow based on environmental conditions. This approach aims to enhance agricultural productivity and resilience by efficiently using reclaimed water.
Technical specifications
- Thermally Actuated Tesla Valve Arrays (TATVA): These microvalves enable precise and responsive water delivery without mechanical components, ensuring durability and low maintenance.
- BPNN-PID Control Algorithm: A hybrid control system combining Back Propagation Neural Network (BPNN) and Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) ensures adaptive flow regulation based on real-time environmental and crop data.
- Recycled Water Use: The system is optimized for utilizing treated wastewater, addressing the underutilization of this resource in agriculture.
- Modeling and Simulation: Utilizes MATLAB, CFD, and FEM tools for optimizing hydraulic performance and control logic.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, this technology has been validated in a lab environment and is set for further development and field trials at the Texas A&M RELLIS OSSF Center. The upcoming greenhouse trials will test its efficacy in real-world conditions with crops like lettuce and tomatoes.
About Texas A&M University, College Station
Texas A&M University in College Station is a comprehensive public research university and the flagship of The Texas A&M University System, combining broad academic strengths with a strong applied‑research culture. Industry collaborates on the Texas A&M‑RELLIS campus—an integrated education, research and testing environment that supports large‑scale experimentation and proving grounds—and through the Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s facilities in Bryan‑College Station. A statewide extension network connects university expertise to companies and communities across all Texas counties, enabling rapid piloting and deployment. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, DOE, USDA and DoD, alongside state and industry sponsorship. Texas A&M Innovation provides IP management, licensing and commercialization pathways across the system.
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