Characterization of an Innovative Off-Grid Device for Irrigation Sustainability

Pressurized irrigation systems are increasingly relevant as climate change accelerates the shift from traditional, less efficient distribution methods, such as canal-based systems, to more efficient pressurized solutions. This study contributes to a research project dedicated to the development of the Off-grid Automatic System (OAS), an innovative patented technology designed at Politecnico di Milano. The research evaluates the benefits of OAS and defines operational strategies for its integration into irrigation networks. The adoption of OAS devices in a water distribution network creates a digital ecosystem by communicating data within the network and enabling advanced control strategies to enhance water distribution efficiency. The present paper achieves the detailed experimental characterization of the first prototype of the device in terms of hydraulic capacity and operational efficiency under various hydraulic conditions. This represents a fundamental step for the feasibility evaluation of the technology. The OAS addresses a crucial technological gap in modern agriculture, where water distribution often suffers from resource wastage and the absence of real-time monitoring and control. By enabling smarter water management, the proposed solution not only reduces inefficiencies but also represents a significant step forward in the digitalization of irrigation systems, offering economic and environmental benefits for the agricultural sector.