Development of a low-cost device to monitor water quantity and quality in water tanks : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Engineering in Mechatronics, Massey University, Manawatu, New Zealand

Abstract

Water scarcity and quality/contamination is a key issue affecting the current climate of water security particularly with decentralized supply. The solution to this issue was to create a device that can track the water quantity and quality of individual water tanks. This device can enable further data collection and research into regional water security issues and can function as a confirmation for existing research in the impact of decentralised supply on a water network. The purpose of this thesis was to develop a device that can achieve the monitoring of both these key issues while still being accessible to a broad range of users to aid in water security efforts. To ensure a relevant design, this thesis explores the literature surrounding hyperspectral imaging and more specifically underwater hyperspectral imaging. The thesis also goes into depth with methods used to measure water quantity and level with a focus on non-commercial methods. Early development focused around using ultrasonic sensors and Sigfox communication to create a device that was being tuned to be a reliable method for water quantity collection. This was assessed in both lab environments and in situ at a local rural property. The device's quality sensor was created based on a hyperspectral point-scanning design and was designed as a separate entity to ensure both devices could function well as individuals. The result was a functioning water level sensor that can attach to a water tank and returns level readings, with an error of 0.028% in a 25,000L tank, at 1-hour intervals per day for approximately 8 weeks, to a MAFDL server. Additionally, a hyperspectral device was developed that can show different wavelengths but needs extensive calibration to run correctly.