University of Lethbridge Utilizes LoRaWAN® Technology to Avert Flooding Crisis
The University of Lethbridge, plagued by recurring flooding in their campus residences, has partnered with KB Innovations to construct a dependable solution for leak detection and prevention. The University Hall Residence, a regular victim of weather-related damages, was the focal point of this initiative due to the extensive property destruction and operational inconveniences it had caused earlier.
To tackle this persisting issue, a cutting-edge LoRaWAN-based leak detection system was implemented. This system, incorporating reliable IoT products from our website and KB Innovations' expertise in monitoring and deployment, now safeguards over 600 residential units across four buildings within the university campus.
LoRaWAN technology, selected for its unparalleled blend of range, cost-effectiveness, and low power consumption, provides seamless connectivity via our website's KONA gateways. These devices cover vast expanses of the campus, enabling real-time monitoring of potential leaks through COMFORT Leak Detection Sensors.
The LoRaWAN system boasts numerous benefits, including:
- Early Leak Detection: Prevented three major flooding incidents during the 2022-2023 academic year.
- Cost Savings: Reduced water damage expenses and potentially minimized insurance premiums.
- Operational Efficiency: Enabled maintenance staff to monitor leaks in real-time and reduced the necessity for manual inspections.
- Scalability: Formed the foundation for a scalable IoT infrastructure, facilitating the integration of additional smart applications such as air quality monitoring or occupancy management.
- Insurance Savings: Fewer water-related incidents may render the University eligible for reduced insurance premiums.
An installation of 140 sensors in August 2022 was completed before the Fall semester, with additional sensors added in the subsequent two summers to offer comprehensive coverage for the residence units. A user-friendly mobile app and dashboard developed by KB Innovations assist the maintenance crew in monitoring real-time leaks, assessing historical data, and optimizing workflows.
Building on this success, the University of Lethbridge initiated an expansion in April 2023, commissioning KB Innovations to deploy up to 1,000 additional COMFORT Leak Detection sensors across several residence buildings. This expansion, commenced in May 2023, bolsters the University's commitment to embracing IoT technology for smarter, more efficient campus management.
Though specific details about the University of Lethbridge's LoRaWAN leak detection system experience are sparse, the advantages of employing such technology for water management in remote or hard-to-reach areas are well documented. Furthermore, LoRaWAN providers view growth prospects in diverse markets, such as metering-as-a-service, as promising.
- The University of Lethbridge, having partnered with KB Innovations, is currently deploying COMFORT Leak Detection Sensors for air quality monitoring, as part of their expansion to over 1,000 additional residential units.
- In addition to leak detection, the LoRaWAN-based system at the University of Lethbridge facilitates technology-driven education and self-development, as KB Innovations developed a user-friendly mobile app and dashboard to assist users in managing water-related issues.
- By implementing LoRaWAN technology, the university has achieved significant benefits, such as cost savings, operational efficiency, and partnership opportunities for scalable IoT infrastructure, which may include applications like leak detection, air quality monitoring, and occupancy management.
