Development of a self-rechargeable digital water flow meter

The objective of this paper is to present the feasibility of a self-rechargeable digital water flow meter (SRDFM) system for water pipes using the latest data processing and wireless communication technologies while causing negligible water pressure drop (head loss). The system uses a Pelton turbine generator to power the electronic circuit, which processes and transmits the signals generated by several flow meters. ZigBee technology was used to process and send wireless signals. Signals from two water meters were acquired, processed, and transmitted with only one control/transmission unit during this study. The new system was assessed experimentally, reaching a maximum of 80 m of wireless transmittance distance at a minimum flow rate of 5 L/min for a 16-mm diameter pipe (self-charged).