Design and Evaluation of an IoT-Based Real-Time Underground Water-Level Sensor System

Abstract

The efficient management of underground water resources is crucial for sustainable development and environmental preservation. Using Internet of Things (IoT) technology can automate data acquisition necessary for evidence-based decisions to react on volatile groundwater levels caused by extensive water use or climate change. This paper focuses on the design of a low-cost, easy-to-install sensor setup for automated underground water level monitoring. The innovation is a 3D printable design that allows cheap manufacturing and easy deployment. Together with a widespread off-the-shelf microcontroller with LoRaWAN connectivity, water levels in strategic or remote locations can be gathered accurately, at high frequencies, and over large areas. The system effectively addresses practical challenges including concerns regarding system connectivity, power efficiency, and data accuracy. In particular, for deep-well pipes the setup overcomes problems of kinks and misalignment. Further, an evaluation of operation in a field test is given demonstrating its effectiveness.