Latest news with #Kallipr
Techday NZ
7 days ago
- Techday NZ
Watercare uses edge intelligence for smarter sewer monitoring in Auckland
Watercare is deploying 5,000 sewer level monitors across its Auckland wastewater network, utilising edge intelligence to detect issues such as blockages and pipe failures directly at the source. This initiative, carried out in partnership with Kallipr, moves beyond conventional systems which rely largely on cloud-based processing. Instead, the monitors process data locally, enabling real-time responses to potential events and reducing reliance on external communication infrastructure. Edge intelligence Dave Moore, Smart Systems Manager at Watercare, described the importance of the localised approach. "What's unique here is where the intelligence lives. By shifting processing out to the edge, we're cutting down on cloud consumption and enabling the network to respond faster, closer to the source of the issue in near real time. It means less lag, less noise, and far more confidence in how we manage events as they unfold." The local data processing is intended to lower communication overheads, extend the lifespan of monitoring solutions, and identify network issues earlier, reducing the risk of sewage spills and their associated environmental and financial costs. Beyond monitoring The sensors provided by Kallipr form part of Watercare's wider Smart Network Programme, valued at NZD $12 million. This programme focuses on integrating digital technologies and artificial intelligence into existing water infrastructure. The devices are being deployed city-wide, including in regions prone to flooding such as Wairau. Each sensor, installed beneath manhole lids, autonomously monitors sewer conditions, adapting its sampling frequency when it detects anomalies via radar and TinyML-powered logic. The systems' long-life batteries further support extended deployment periods without frequent maintenance. Gerhard Loots, Chief Executive Officer of Kallipr, outlined the broader implications for the utility sector. "Many utilities are still focused on collecting more data but the next leap forward is creating intelligence in the field. This deployment shows how utilities can evolve from data-heavy, cloud-reliant systems to a model that's faster, leaner, and built for real-world complexity. Watercare is leading with a future-ready approach that others can follow." Technology details The core of the deployment is Kallipr's Spectra radar sensor, which is designed to withstand the challenging conditions found in sewers, including exposure to corrosive gases, submersion, potential animal interference, and unreliable network signals. Spectra records data at regular 15-minute intervals, but can increase its activity if local sensors anticipate overflow or blockage situations. These devices use low-power LTE networks - including NB-IoT and Cat-M1 standards - to transmit information, while onboard TinyML algorithms support local adaptation and ongoing battery efficiency. Connectivity challenges in underground settings are mitigated by dual SIM capability, with the devices using edge logic to choose the strongest available network. This ensures stable, continuous communication regardless of external conditions. Device management is centralised through Kallipr Kloud Fleet, a platform built on Microsoft Azure, which allows remote monitoring and control of the distributed monitoring units. Wider impact Edge-based processing reduces the amount of bandwidth required, energy consumption, and load on cloud systems, helping to trim operational expenses and enhance environmental outcomes. According to Watercare, each avoided spill mitigates contamination risks, minimises unnecessary travel to field sites, and prevents excess emissions. The deployment of this network in Auckland is reflective of a global move toward decentralised utility management. Watercare's approach demonstrates that efficiency and responsiveness can be improved by locating decision-making as close as possible to operational events. This strategy is intended to drive cost efficiency, resilience, and the long-term adaptability of critical infrastructure networks.
Techday NZ
07-08-2025
- Techday NZ
Watercare installs smart sensors for edge-powered sewer monitoring
Watercare is deploying 5,000 smart sewer sensors across Auckland in partnership with Kallipr to enhance real-time monitoring and management of wastewater overflows. The large-scale sensor rollout represents a new approach to digital infrastructure in New Zealand's wastewater sector, with the use of edge-intelligent devices capable of interpreting and responding to sewer conditions directly at the source. The initiative leverages devices designed and manufactured by Brisbane-based Internet of Things company Kallipr. These sensors incorporate edge-based logic, distinguishing them from conventional systems that rely on cloud processing alone. The deployment is intended to detect and address issues such as blockages, pipe failures, and groundwater intrusion in real time, supported by an artificial intelligence analytics platform. By shifting decision-making capabilities to the edge of the network, Watercare aims to reduce communication overheads, enhance system longevity, and facilitate earlier identification of potential problems, including spills and environmental hazards. "What's unique here is where the intelligence lives," said Dave Moore, Smart Systems Manager at Watercare. Moore explained the benefits of this decentralised approach: "By shifting processing out to the edge, we're cutting down on cloud consumption and enabling the network to respond faster, closer to the source of the issue in near real time. It means less lag, less noise, and far more confidence in how we manage events as they unfold." The sensors are being installed across the city, including flood-prone areas such as Wairau. Each device is fitted beneath manhole lids and uses radar sensing, TinyML-powered logic, and long-life batteries to monitor sewer conditions autonomously. The sensors' ability to modify sampling rates in response to anomalies is expected to help prevent numerous overflows each year. This project forms part of a NZD $12 million Smart Network Programme dedicated to integrating digital technologies and artificial intelligence software into Watercare's infrastructure. By providing embedded intelligence within the network, the programme seeks to accelerate detection and response times, alleviate pressure on cloud resources, and extend the operational lifespan of existing assets. "Many utilities are still focused on collecting more data but the next leap forward is creating intelligence in the field," said Gerhard Loots, CEO of Kallipr. "This deployment shows how utilities can evolve from data-heavy, cloud-reliant systems to a model that's faster, leaner, and built for real-world complexity. Watercare is leading with a future-ready approach that others can follow." At the centre of this deployment is Kallipr's Spectra sensor, which is engineered to endure the challenging environment of a sewer network. The device is capable of withstanding corrosive gases, submersion, animal interference, and limited connectivity. It captures level data every 15 minutes and increases sampling frequency if signs of overflow or blockage are detected. The sensor utilises low-power LTE networks, specifically NB-IoT and Cat-M1, while on-board TinyML allows the device to adapt and optimise responses locally. To minimise connectivity disruptions common in underground infrastructure, Spectra employs dual SIMs and edge-based logic to evaluate and select the most reliable available network continually. Fleet management of the devices is handled through Kallipr Kloud Fleet, an IoT fleet management platform built on Microsoft Azure, which offers Watercare remote visibility and control over thousands of distributed units. Edge processing is anticipated to lower ongoing operational costs by reducing bandwidth usage, energy consumption, and dependence on cloud infrastructure, as well as decreasing field visits and emissions associated with spill response and maintenance. The Watercare programme demonstrates a broader transition in utility infrastructure strategy, prioritising the distribution of intelligence throughout the network. Moving towards edge logic-driven systems is seen as a means to improve responsiveness, enable more efficient cost management, and adapt to long-term operational needs.
