Finding existing technology and integrating with products already in development to create something new isn’t always easy. But you don’t necessarily need a tarot card reader to help you find it.
A wireless mesh network is yet another technology that’s readily found, and even more easily adapted. It was developed to aggregate data from multiple sensor points in close proximity of each other, and relay it all as one data package to a central hub. It’s already found in Voice-over IP (VoIP) telephone systems, and is part of a new generation of home and business meters in electrical smart grids.
Merging that technology with a smart irrigation system, engineers have created the WaterOptimizer, a smart irrigation control system that delivers water to landscapes and data to users. Because moisture sensors ensure plants get the water they need, but only the water they need, utilities save water resources and customers save money.
The combined technology creates a two-way communication network – accessible through a simple Web browser – that could relay data instantly, and send commands back to the system from anywhere. Remote access means sprinkler system malfunctions can be discovered immediately – before water is wasted. A water utility can log in and temporarily shut down irrigation when extra water pressure is needed elsewhere, like to help put out a fire.
Most of all, more water can be saved through such a continuous communication network offered by devices like WaterOptimizer, which means more money can be saved, too.
Finding new applications for technology already out there is easy. Here are three simple steps:
Stay current on new technologies
This could be as easy as subscribing to Popular Mechanics or Popular Science. More often than not, technology is developed before a useful application can be found.
Listen to customers
This may seem basic, but more often than not, companies fail to hear customer desires – especially with existing products. Not listening means you can’t develop products that satisfy those wants and needs. Before you know it, someone else will eventually step in and fill that void.
Don’t be afraid to experiment
Thomas Edison gave us the light bulb, the movie projector and even the record player. But not everything he invented was made of gold.
What you don’t hear a lot about was Edison’s major failure in coal mining. The inventor spent nearly a decade – and all of his General Electric stock – unsuccessfully finding a fast way to extract iron from low-grade ore. It may have cost him some money, and his pride, but it didn’t slow his desire to innovate.
The tools to develop products are out there. In fact, they’re probably closer than you realize.
Recognizing those technologies – and finding new applications for them – will ensure you always stay at least one step ahead of everyone else.
Loc Truong is a licensed professional engineer in Florida and Texas and is a senior project manager for WaterOptimizer Inc., a smart irrigation system manufacturer headquartered in Tampa, Fla. WaterOptimizer designs and manufactures smart irrigation products including intelligent irrigation controllers, soil moisture sensors and other wireless irrigation products. He can be reached at ltruong@kingengineering.com.