Case Studies

Places where open storm is used.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

We are deploying a network of sensors and actuators that will enable real-time monitoring and control of the City of Ann Arbor’s stormwater system. Cellular-enabled sensor nodes will provide an instantaneous snapshot of hydrologic conditions, while remote-controlled valves will enable coordinated releases from retention basins across the city. We are currently researching how real-time control can reduce costs, mitigate flooding and improve water quality.

Huron River Watershed

We have partnered with Huron River Watershed Council to protect ecosystems on the Huron River by using real-time sensor data to detect contaminants of interest and characterize the impact of dam releases. Open storm sensor nodes are now being used by dam operators to determine the release schedules that will best support aquatic wildlife. To find out more about this project, you can visit the Huron River Watershed Council’s blog.

Toledo, Ohio

Working with the University of Toledo, we have developed two smart “green infrastructure” sites that use controllable valves to optimize rainwater harvesting and bioretention. These sites will be used to study how dynamic control can improve the performance of traditional green infrastructure elements, such as bioswales, rain gardens and green roofs.

Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas

In collaboration with the University of Texas at Arlington, we are deploying a large-scale urban flash flood monitoring network in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. Using low-cost ultrasonic depth sensors, this network will detect flood events at the level of individual roadways, enabling targeted alerts for motorists, optimized dispatch of emergency services, and routing of traffic around flooded roadways.