IntelliSense AWARE User manual

Intellisense Systems, Inc. – 1 – Installation Guide
20600 Gramercy Place IG AWARE Flood-11-2019
Torrance, CA 90501-1821 Revision: A
[phone]
AWARE Flood
Advance Warning Equipment IoT Flood Inundation Sensor
Installation Guide

Intellisense Systems Inc.
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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
AWARE FLOOD SYSTEM OVERVIEW
The AWARE Flood System is a low-cost, Internet-of-Things (IoT)-based early warning flood sensor that
provides a full turnkey solution for small and large communities in need of an early warning flood detection
system. It can be easily integrated into existing networks for sensor network densification or used by
communities without any infrastructure and support framework. In addition, a full flood warning website
account is provided by Intellisense Systems with the purchase of the AWARE Flood System.
What Comes in Every Box
Each AWARE Flood package comes with all the following components (as shown below)
1. AWARE Flood Node with IoT Module with Removable Cellular Antenna
2. Stainless Steel Universal Mounting Plate
3. Water Level Pressure (WLP) Module (50 ft. Length)
4. Stainless Steel Hose Clamps (2)
5. Torx Head Mounting Screws (2)
6. Water Level Pressure Module Mounting Plate (not pictured)
7
8
1
4
5
3
5
2

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
Hardware Details
1. AWARE Flood Node with IoT Module
The AWARE Flood Node harvests, processes and communicates all
sensor data, using a self-contained power module utilizing three
solar panels. An Internet-of-Things (IoT) module is mounted on the
top of the AWARE Flood Node and communicates to the sensor
website that displays the data for the user. The IoT module comes
preconfigured with either a cellular LTE-M modem or an iridium
modem. It is powered by its one solar panel.
2. 316 Stainless Steel Universal Mounting Plate
The AWARE Flood Node and IoT Module are mounted using a
custom universal mounting plate that is capable of being mounted
to horizontal and vertical poles using either plastic zip ties or
Intellisense Systems-provided galvanized steel sign straps. It can
also be installed on flat surfaces.
3. Water Level Pressure (WLP) Module
The Water Level Pressure (WLP) Module connects to the AWARE Flood
Node via a 15-meter (50-foot) cable to allow for the ideal placement on
any site. The module automatically calibrates within 30 seconds of
start-up.
4. Water-Resistant Camera Module (Optional)
An optional accessory that we strongly encourage all AWARE Flood
users to explore is the water-resistant camera module. This module
provides images of the site in almost real time.

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
SITE SELECTION GUIDELINES
To ensure the accurate collection and reporting of environmental data, several factors must be considered
when selecting a site for AWARE Flood devices. Site selection should be performed before deploying a
sensor network. The following categories should be considered when selecting sites:
1. Unmonitored Flood Risks – Sites that are currently prone to flooding that are not already monitored.
2. Stream Crossings – Road crossing sites that are prone to flooding can provide additional information
on overtopped roadways or pedestrian walkways and stormwater debris blockages.
3. Critical Infrastructure – Sites including lift stations, power substations, dams, etc. need near real-
time monitoring.
4. Capital Improvement Projects – Flood prone properties where buyout analysis is needed.
5. Rapid Deployments – These sensors can be deployed rapidly in site locations that have potential
flood risks during expected natural disasters such as hurricanes or during controlled floods.
Site Considerations and Preparations
1. Encroachments – Agreements with various government rights-of-way (ROW), i.e. Department of
Transportation (DOT) are needed if the site location encroaches on these ROW. For private property,
existing DOT ROW can be utilized in some cases bypassing the need to obtain permission from
individual property owners. For privately owned property without municipal ROW, clear
communication of the intention of installation of the sensor is often enough to gain the property
owner’s permission.
2. Communication Signal Strength – The AWARE Flood system can
communicate via either cellular or Iridium satellite connections (depending on
how the AWARE Flood Node and IoT Module are configured at time of
purchase). Currently, the AWARE Flood system only supports Verizon and
utilizes the LTE-M/NB-IoT Network. The AWARE Flood IoT Module comes with
a small antenna meant to blend in with the environment but can also be field
swappable with a larger higher gain antenna if needed. Every AWARE Flood
system will report its signal strength with every packet.
3. Accessibility – Steep banks, large debris, and other terrain obstacles may limit
the serviceability. The AWARE Flood was designed to be modular so the
AWARE Flood Node can be installed in a location that is easily accessible,
while allowing the WLP to be installed into the stream via ruggedized conduit
that protects the cable assembly. Should any large debris damage the WLP,
the WLP module can easily be replaced and at a lower cost than replacing
the entire system.
4. South Facing Sunlight Availability – The AWARE Flood system was designed to operate for 10 days
with our solar recharge on a full battery; however, considerations should be made when installed the
AWARE Flood Node where ample sunlight is available year round to maximize solar exposure during
winter when the days are at their shortest.
5. Vegetation – The surrounding vegetation should be considered when installing the AWARE Flood
Node and removed from the location where needed to prevent vegetation from blocking potential
sunlight as well as the path for the WLP conduit to prevent potential safety hazards or tripping
concerns.
Example of 3rd Party
High Gain Antenna

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS – AWARE FLOOD NODE
There are a variety of ways to mount the AWARE Flood system, including on T-posts, fence posts, and flat
surfaces. Some of these installation steps may require additional commercial off the shelf (COTS) hardware,
which are outlined in each subsection below.
Option 1 – T-Post
Based on customer research, the most common installation method for the AWARE Flood Node is on
existing horizontal and vertical pipes, posts or bars using the provided Universal Mounting Plate and easy-
to-use galvanized steel hose clamps. The optimal orientation of the AWARE Flood Node is facing south (the
cardinal direction Sun in the Northern Hemisphere) with the antenna always pointing towards the sky.
If this existing infrastructure is not available for the hose clamps, installing a fence post or T-post is often
the simplest solution. Depending on the ground composition at the installation site, a T-post or fence post
driven into the ground or a pole installed in a hole reinforced with concrete are suitable solutions.
The recommended COTS hardware for installing the AWARE Flood Node on a T-post appears below:
a. T-Post
b. Torx T10 Screwdriver
c. Fence Post Driver or 4 lb. Engineer Hammer
1. Secure the T-Post into the ground using an engineer hammer or fence post driver until the anchor
plate (pictured above ground on the right) is completely submerged in the soil.

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
2. Loop the open end of the 316 stainless steel clamps horizontally through the four ¼-inch oblong
holes on the universal mounting plate.
3. Position the mounting plate against the T-Post (with the flat side of the plate facing away from the post).
4. Wrap the clamps around the T-Post and secure the mounting plate to the T-Post by tighting the clamps
with a flathead screwdriver.

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
5. Hang the AWARE Flood Node onto the mounting plate using the slots on the back of the AWARE
Flood Node.
6. Secure the AWARE Flood Node to the mounting plate using the 2 Torx-head mounting screws
provided.
NOTE: The Torx T10 Screwdriver pictured above is NOT included in the AWARE Flood package.

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
Option 2 – Fence Post
The fence post installation process is very similar to the T-post mounting process; however, the hardware
differs. The recommended COTS hardware for installing the AWARE Flood Node on a fence post appears
below:
a. Fence Post
b. Torx T10 Screwdriver
c. Acorn International 2.5 in. x 8 in. x 30 in. Steel T-Post Driver
1. Install the fence post into the ground by first twisting the post until it can stand on its own, then use
the fence post driver to mount it into the soil.
2. Loop the open end of the 316 stainless steel clamps horizontally through the four ¼-inch oblong
holes on the universal mounting plate.

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
3. Position the mounting plate against the fence post with the flat side of the plate facing away from the
post.
4. Wrap the clamps around the fence post and secure the mounting plate by tighting the clamps with a
flathead screwdriver.

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
5. Hang the AWARE Flood Node onto the mounting plate using the slots on the back of the AWARE
Flood Node.
6. Secure the AWARE Flood Node to the mounting plate using the 2 Torx-head mounting screws
provided.
NOTE: The Torx T10 Screwdriver pictured above is NOT included in the AWARE Flood package.

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
Option 3 – Flat Surface
The universal mounting plate was also designed to be mounted on flat surfaces using standard screws. The
mounting plate has four ¼-inch oblong holes that will accommodate screws of almost any size or shape.
Regardless of what flat surface onto which the AWARE Flood Node is mounted, the antennae should always
be pointed skyward.
If customers choose to use a screw specific to the desired mounting surface but not optimal form the mounting
plat, Intellisense recommends installing a washer larger than the screw head to prevent damage to the
AWARE Flood Node and ensure that it is securely fastened to the surface.
The recommended COTS hardware for installing the AWARE Flood Node on a flat surface appears below:
a. Concrete:
i. Hammer Drill
ii. SDS Plus Masonry Drill Bit
iii. ¼ in. x 1 ¼ in. Concrete Anchor Screws
iv. Concrete Anchor Installation Kit
b. Wood:
i. Any electric drill with Philips head bit for screws
ii. 1 in. Wood Screws
1. Place the four ¼-inch holes on the universal mounting plate against the flat surface and secure it
using screws in the four ¼-inch holes in the mounting plate.
NOTE: Remember to use the appropriate screws designed specifically for the flat surface/wall
material.

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
2. Slide the AWARE Flood System onto the mounting plate using the slots on the back of the AWARE
Flood Node.
3. Secure the AWARE Flood Node to the mounting plate using the two Torx-head mounting screws
provided.
NOTE: The Torx T10 Screwdriver pictured above is NOT included in the AWARE Flood package.

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS – AWARE FLOOD ASSESSORIES
This section details how to install multiple accessories with the AWARE Flood Node. It describes the
installation process for two accessories (the Water Level Pressure Module and the Water-Resistant Camera
Sensor) with more accessories coming at a later date. Ensure that the AWARE Flood Node is properly
mounted before installing any accessories.
This section is broken down into the following order:
1. Water-Resistant Camera Sensor Installation
2. Water Level Pressure (WLP) Module Installation – Part 1
3. Powering On / Initialization Sequence
4. Water Level Pressure (WLP) Module Installation – Part 2
Water-Resistant Camera Sensor Installation
Now install the water-resistant camera sensor. Complete the following steps below BEFORE powering on
the AWARE Flood Node:
1. Screw the threaded connector into the AWARE Flood Node at port 3.
2. Using zip ties and the two holes on the camera sensor, secure the camera sensor to the pole/fence
post.

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
3. Bundle and zip-tie the excess sensor cable to the pole or surface to which the AWARE Flood Node is
installed (T-post example pictured below).
Additionally, the optional camera module can also be mounted using the same tools and screws as listed in
the instructions for installing the AWARE Flood Node on a flat surface.
Water Level Pressure (WLP) Module Installation – Part 1
Before installing the WLP Module, please make the following considerations based on the installation site of
the AWARE Flood System.
T-Post – In locations where the ground is soft, Intellisense recommends driving a T-post at least 1 ft. into
the ground at the WLP Module location. The WLP Module was designed with two mounting holes that can
be used to zip tie it to the bottom of a T-post with flexible conduit reaching all the way to the base of the
module.
Concrete/Hard Rock Bottom – For mounting the WLP Module into a concrete or rock bed, the same readily
available hardware and tools used to mount the AWARE Node (previous section “AWARE Flood Node
Installation – Flat Surface”) can be utilized.
Flexible Conduit – The cable attached to the Water Level Module should be installed using a protective
conduit to prevent floating debris, rapidly moving down stream or trimming devices, from accidentally
cutting through the module cable. This conduit can be found at most hardware stores. This conduit comes in
multiple lengths and sizes, but Intellisense recommends the ¾-in. Southwire flexible Ultratite®conduit
(Model #58046301) or similar because it is easy to cut to length and has been ruggedized for the outdoors
and water submersion.

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
The recommended COTS hardware for installing the AWARE Flood Node on a flat surface appears below:
a. Marked Fish Tape
b. Electrical Tape
c. Non-Metallic Flexible Conduit, Gray, 3/4 in, 100 Ft. Coil
d. 1 ¾-in. Concrete Form Board Stake
e. BAC Industries BG-41SD 4-in-1 Stake Driver
f. 10 12-in. J Hook Rebar Anchors
g. 4 lb. Engineer Hammer
h. Zip ties
Follow these steps to begin the WLP Module installation:
1. Connect the WLP Module to the AWARE Flood Node using port 4 on the AWARE Flood Node.
NOTE: The connector should snap in and fits only one way, with the white line facing out. If installing
a camera module, please follow the instructions before powering on device.
2. Position the WLP Module cord close to the AWARE Flood Node and run flood sensor down next to
the water but keep the sensor dry and out of the water during automatic calibration.
NOTE: If running cable through conduit, cut the conduit to length and, before installing the conduit,
cut and run string or small rope through conduit with extra tied off at both ends. This can be used to
pull the sensor through the conduit.

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
Powering On / Initialization Sequence
Now that all the modules are installed and plugged into the node, it’s time to power on the AWARE Flood
system. Follow these steps to power on the AWARE Flood Node and begin the initialization sequence
1. Move the AWARE Flood Node power
switch (recessed inside of the plastic
slot to deter tampering) to the right and
into the “ON” position using a flat head
screwdriver. An LED light will appear
once the Node is powered on.
2. Upon start-up, the AWARE Flood Node will
run the following initialization sequence:
a. Battery Status Check – The LED will illuminate
a solid GREEN if the power is adequate or a
solid YELLOW if it needs to be recharged. Unit
can be recharged just by sitting in the sun in the
off state.
b. Automatic Calibration – The LED will begin
flashing after calibration is completed. A
flashing GREEN indicates that calibration
successfully completed during this or a previous
power on initialization. A flashing YELLOW
indicates that calibration failed.
c. GPS Synchronization – The LED will continue flashing the same color that resulted from the
automatic calibration.
NOTE: The GPS will continue to attempt to sync date, time, location, and elevation for a minimum of
5 minutes up to a maximum of 30 minutes. While in most cases GPS sync will happen in the
minimum time of 5 minutes, some locations may provide more challenging conditions and take
longer.
In some situations, if a sync takes much longer than 5 minutes, it is best to leave and check if the
sync was successful remotely. If the location data from the sensor is not displayed on the website,
then the GPS may not have synched and the sensor may need to be relocated. The LED will no longer
be illuminated once the initialization sequence is completed. If GPS has not synced after 30 minutes,
the node will record its internal time stamp to the server during its first packet transmission.
NOTE: In sunny conditions, the LED may need to be viewed head on to see what colors are
illuminated. In the event that you cannot see the LED sequence, the unit can simply be rebooted to
confirm the LED status throughout the initialization sequence.
LED
Power
Switch

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Installation Guide – AWARE Flood System
Water Level Pressure (WLP) Module Installation – Part 2
1. Drive the board stake into the ground at the intended WLP module location using the stake driver.
2. Attach the WLP Module to the fish tape using electrical tape.
3. Unspool the marked fish tape to the same length of the conduit.
4. Feed the marked fish tape and the WLP Module through the flexible conduit.
5. Remove the marked fish tape from the WLP module and re-spool it through the conduit.

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6. Feed the WLP module through the vertically oriented hose clamp.
1. Attach the WLP Mounting Plate to the board stake using the horizontally oriented hose clamp and a
flathead screwdriver.
7. Secure the WLP module to the mounting plate using the nut and bolt provided.

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8. Secure the conduit to the mounting plate by tightening the vertically oriented hose clamp with a
flathead screwdriver.
9. Secure the conduit to the T post/fence post using zip ties.
10. Secure the conduit to the ground using the J hook rebar anchors and the engineer hammer.

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11. Secure the WLP module cord to the security loop using a
zip tie.
NOTE: Be sure that the WLP Module plug is secure but not
pulled tightly when it is secured to the security loop. If the
plug is not positioned correctly in port 4, its pressure
readings may be affected.
12. Bundle and zip-tie the excess module cable to the pole or
surface to which the AWARE Flood Node is installed (T-
post example pictured below).
SECURITY / TAMPER DETERRENTS
At Intellisense Systems, the security of our customers’ equipment
and data is our highest priority. With that goal in mind, we
designed the AWARE Flood Node with a reinforced security loop
that can accommodate any standard padlock. When using an
aircraft cable with the padlock, the device can be anchored to any
location for total security.
Intellisense Systems also ensures the security of users’ data by
setting up data plans with DCS Inc. and providing a secure login to
the flashflood.info server, which is pre-configured to receive
information and updates from the cellular modem on the AWARE
Flood Node.