A spartial framework for managing sewer and water networks using sensor networks: a case of the university of Zambia.
Date
2023
Authors
Chibuye, Gabriel
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The University of Zambia
Abstract
Public institutions generally have a lot of facilities and infrastructure catering for the population of the institution. Some important infrastructure such utilities which include water, sewer, electricity, and telecommunications require constant maintenance, management, and adequate monitoring for them to function effectively. This study aimed to build a framework for Managing Sewer and Water Networks Using Sensor Networks at the University of Zambia. The methodology involved understating the existing operations of the Resident engineer’s office to ascertain the user needs. These needs formed the basis of the study, the development and design of the prototype of the Web based Framework. Data Collection was done using various methods. A presurvey (Reconnaissance Survey) was done to have an idea of the existing infrastructure and a more accurate survey was done using GPS GNSS equipment GIS software was used to process data and create shapefiles. A 15-digit coding system was created and was used to assign unique identification numbers and extra attribute information to the water and sewer network shapefiles. A QR code was generated for each node and the serial number recorded. Tagging was done using the QR code for each structure. All the shapefiles were loaded into a PostGreSQL spatial database and were used as input in the Web GIS application. The web application had some tools imbedded in it which were mainly for monitoring and management of the structures. Using internet of things (IOT) technology, water level sensors were placed in a prototype to mimic some critical manholes to help with the monitoring of the sewerage network. The system could therefore be used for identification of any infrastructure by scanning the QR code and a map showing the structure would be seen online by the field technicians. Students could also be able to send out notifications to the resident engineer in case there was a damaged or malfunctioning structure. Monitoring of the sewer system could be done using the sensors and ultimately the framework would ease the management of the water and sewer systems at the University of Zambia.
Description
Thesis of Master of Science in Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation.