Source Water Monitoring System

Challenge:
We were challenged to design an Ontario lakes source water monitoring system for use in remote areas to accurately detect harmful algal blooms while minimizing environmental impact and unnecessary trips for water testing. Objectives included stakeholder identification, proposing a monitoring solution, qualitative error analysis, and using the PERSEID method (Performance + Environmental + Regulatory + Socio-cultural screening for Engineering Integrated Design) for operational and power considerations. 

Solution: 

After completing significant research into the geology/climate of the region, algal identification methods/algorithms, and different means of obtaining images/samples we landed on a system that uses specialized CW-25E drones paired with the LTSM algorithm as the backbone. Utilizing the drone, algorithm, and lidar sensor, the system allowed us to have constant monitoring over the region and give early warning for any outbreaks of the algae. It was able to accomplish this partly due to toroidal propellers that we designed for use on the drone that would increase performance and reduce noise.  The three-phase plan for implementing this system included a detailed outline for test flights, data collection and analysis, infrastructure development, and app deployment for optimal system integration. Our sustainable approach considered technical, socio-cultural, environmental, and economic constraints, ensuring safe drone operation and minimal impact on the local community and wildlife.

Tools:
Autodesk Inventor, MS PowerPoint, MS Excel, and Prusca slicer