Arrangement for watering potted plants

Abstract

An arrangement for watering a plurality of pots (84) with potted plants (18), comprising a conveying device (12, 13, 53, 55) for supplying water to the pot (84); a sensor (3); and a control and evaluation unit (11) supplied with the signals from the sensor (3) for controlling the water supply; is characterized in that the conveying device (12, 13, 53, 55) has an inlet housing (55) with inlet openings that can be inserted into a water reservoir (51) and a pump (53) is provided with which water can be conveyed from the water reservoir (51) to the pots (84).

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to an arrangement for watering a plurality of pots with potted plants, comprising (a) a conveyor for supplying water into the pot; (b) a sensor; and (c) a control and evaluation unit supplied with the sensor signals to control the water supply.

[0002] Plant watering is already a well-known technique indoors, using a timer to turn the water supply on and off. The plants are watered simultaneously via a distributor. The so-called "Internet of Things" makes it possible to control these irrigation systems with a timer via a device with a user interface. However, with existing devices, the dosage must be manually adjusted at the outlets. For outdoor use, there is a control and evaluation unit with sensors to expand an irrigation system and regulate the water quantity. Such irrigation systems require a water connection, which is rarely available indoors or on balconies. State of the art

[0003] WO2017 / 180111A1 (Caceres) discloses an irrigation system for potted plants comprising a water reservoir, a pump, and a timer. The plants are watered at regular intervals, regardless of whether they need water or not. A sensor detects the water level in the reservoir and generates an alarm when there is insufficient water available.

[0004] DE 20 2019 104581 (Florin-Iulian) discloses an arrangement for watering potted plants. The plants are planted in special pots, each of which has its own water reservoir and its own communication device directly connected to a mobile device. Each plant has its own control unit and its own communication device. Such elaborately equipped pots are expensive. Only pots with a uniform design are used. This is undesirable. Similar special pots with their own water reservoir are disclosed in CN 216 087 837 U and with a permanently installed sensor in CN 114 402 976 A.

[0005] EP 2 400 832 B1 (ETH) discloses a plant monitoring device with a multitude of sensors whose measured values ​​are transmitted to a terminal device. The plants are not watered. Additional sensors are also available under the trade name "FYTA" on the website https: / / fyta.de. These can be connected to a terminal device in the form of a smartphone via Bluetooth.

[0006] Under the trade name "GrowCube," an irrigation system with a water reservoir, a controller permanently connected to the water reservoir, and wired sensors is disclosed on the website https: / / www.kickstarter.com / projects / elecrow / growcube-a-smart-watering-kit-growsyour-plants-like-a-pro?lang=de. The controller can supply water to up to four plants. Additional controllers must be installed for more plants. The cables on the sensors are unsightly and have a limited range. The amount of water in the water reservoir is limited.

[0007] There are also large-scale systems, for example as disclosed in DE 10 2020 123 914 A1 (ACO) or under the trade name “MIYO” on the website https: / / miyo.garden, which are unsuitable for potted plants and / or significantly too expensive for private indoor use. Disclosure of the invention

[0008] The object of the invention is to provide a cost-effective and easy-to-use irrigation system of the type mentioned above. According to the invention, this object is achieved in that the conveying device has an inlet housing with inlet openings that can be inserted into a water reservoir, and a pump is provided with which water can be conveyed from the water reservoir to the pots.

[0009] The inventive solution does not include its own integrated water reservoir, but rather relies on water reservoirs available at the user's location. This keeps the system small, allowing for cost-effective storage and transport. The water reservoir can be adapted to local conditions and the needs of the plants to be irrigated. Large plants with high water requirements can be equipped with a larger water reservoir than smaller plants or plants with low water requirements. The design of the water reservoir is not predetermined, but can be freely chosen according to taste and adapted to the environment. The inventive solution implements a plug-and-play solution in which simply the inlet housing is inserted into a water reservoir, without the need for additional electrical or hydraulic installations.

[0010] The pump can be housed in a control housing together with the electrical control system and draws water from the inlet housing. Preferably, however, the pump is located within the inlet housing. This solution offers several advantages. Firstly, the weight of the pump ensures that the inlets of the inlet housing are always located at a low point in the water reservoir. This prevents the inlet housing from floating higher and drawing in air even when there is still sufficient water in the reservoir. Secondly, in the event of a leak, the pump is prevented from running dry even when there is sufficient water in the reservoir.

[0011] The invention preferably provides a filter that filters the water from the water reservoir. This prevents blockages and clogging of the water-carrying components. In a further embodiment of the invention, for example, it is provided that a filter can be detachably attached to the inlet housing. Such a filter has the advantage that it can be particularly easily removed, replaced, and / or cleaned, for example, when refilling the water reservoir. It is understood that backwash filters, replaceable filter cartridges, or other filters can also be used. In particular, a dosing device for dosing additives that promote plant growth and prosperity can also be provided in the inlet housing or the control housing.

[0012] Preferably, the water reservoir, the control and evaluation unit, and / or the pot form separate units that are arranged at a distance from one another, and the conveying device comprises water-carrying hose or pipe connections between the units. The control and evaluation unit serves as a distributor and is integrated neither into the water reservoir nor into the pot. It can, for example, be discreetly housed out of sight so that it is not disruptive.

[0013] In particular, the conveying device can comprise solenoid valves or other valves which are supplied with control signals from the control and evaluation unit. The volume flow of water through the conveying device can be controlled by means of the valves according to the water requirement of the individual plant in the pot, whereby the water requirement is determined from the sensor signals from the sensor in the pot and stored data which is stored for the individual plant in the control and evaluation unit, in the end device and / or in a central server. The control signals can therefore be designed in such a way that the water flow is adapted to the needs of the plant, the location and the other environmental conditions. For this purpose, the opening duration, cross-section and frequency of the valves or the pump power can be adjusted.If conditions change or plants change or grow, these can be adjusted automatically according to sensor signals or manually.

[0014] Preferably, the valves and the control and evaluation unit are arranged in a common housing. The electronic components of the control and evaluation unit are well separated from the water-carrying components. Valves that require electrical power can access the same power source as the control and evaluation unit. Using a common housing creates an arrangement that is particularly easy to handle and operate, as well as easy to install.

[0015] In a further embodiment of the invention, connections are provided on the housing of the control and evaluation unit downstream of the valves, to which hose or pipe connections can be detachably connected. Detachable hose and pipe connections have the advantage that they can be replaced if they become worn, clogged, or damaged. They also allow the selection of any length. Longer hoses can be connected for plants located further away than for plants located in the immediate vicinity of the control and evaluation unit.

[0016] The arrangement is already well-suited for a single pot. However, it is advantageous to connect multiple pots to a control and evaluation unit. Several valves and connections are provided for this purpose.

[0017] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one further control and evaluation unit is provided, and the control and evaluation units communicate with each other and data from each control and evaluation unit can be stored on at least one further control and evaluation unit. Preferably, each control and evaluation unit is provided with its own pump in its own pump housing. For example, a control and evaluation unit can be arranged in an area or room in which potted plants are to be cared for. The control and evaluation units can communicate with each other and exchange data. If one of the control and evaluation units fails, the data is stored on at least one further control and evaluation unit and can be read out and used there.In particular, the additional control and evaluation unit can trigger an alarm that informs the user that one of the control and evaluation units has failed. It therefore serves not only as a backup storage for data but also for further communication with the user.

[0018] For communication with the user, it is advantageously provided that the control and evaluation unit has a communication interface for communication with a mobile device and / or other control and evaluation units, via which information, parameters, and / or control commands can be communicated. Communication can take place via the internet or directly via Bluetooth or the like. For example, a tablet computer, a smartphone, or a commercially available PC with an internet interface can be used, on which an application is installed or access to data and suitable evaluation and control software is enabled via a server.

[0019] This configuration is particularly convenient if the communication interface is configured for wireless communication. However, it is also possible to connect the control and evaluation unit to the internet or another network via a cable.

[0020] To record the condition of the plant and its environment, it is particularly advantageous if the sensor is a moisture sensor that can be inserted into the plant substrate. The moisture content in the plant substrate, i.e., in the soil or similar, is a good indicator of the plant's condition. Excessive moisture should be avoided, as should excessively dry substrate. In addition to the moisture sensor, additional sensors can be provided, selected from the group consisting of: temperature sensor, brightness sensor, water level sensor, humidity sensor, and conductivity sensor.

[0021] Another humidity sensor enables the measurement of humidity at different heights or in different positions in the pot. The temperature and brightness sensor can be used to classify the plant's location. If, for example, there is consistently insufficient light, a message can be sent to the user indicating that the location is unsuitable. A water level sensor can be provided, in particular, in the water reservoir. The water level sensor determines whether there is sufficient water to irrigate the plants for a specified period of time. In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the humidity sensor and the water level sensor are identical in design. The water level can then also be read by the humidity sensor.The user can select on the device which sensor is used to measure the water level and which sensor is used to measure the moisture content of the substrate. An expansion module allows for deeper water levels, among other things.

[0022] The conductivity sensor can be used to estimate the mineral content in the substrate or water. The conductivity sensor can be placed in the water reservoir and / or in the pot. Conductivity is determined at a predefined moisture level. Water level can be measured using at least one moisture sensor. The larger the surface area of ​​the moisture sensor is covered by water, the higher the value. The conductivity is only measured by the conductivity sensor when the moisture sensor measures the maximum set moisture level. The conductivity values ​​are proportional to the moisture levels. These values ​​vary depending on how much water percolates from top to bottom through the substrate.

[0023] Embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims. One embodiment is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Definitions

[0024] In this description and the appended claims, all terms have a meaning familiar to the person skilled in the art, as set forth in the specialist literature, standards, and relevant websites and publications, particularly lexical ones, such as www.Wikipedia.de, www.wissen.de, or those of competitors, research institutes, universities, and associations. In particular, the terms used do not have the opposite meaning to what the person skilled in the art would understand from the above publications. Short description of the drawings Fig. 1 is an isometric view of a potted plant irrigation system with an inlet housing and a sensor. Fig. 2 shows the irrigation system from Fig. 1, where the filter caps of the inlet housing are loosened. Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of the irrigation system from Fig. 1 with water reservoir and plant pot. Fig. 4 illustrates the integration of irrigation systems according to Fig. 1 into a network with a wirelessly connected device. Fig. 5 illustrates the integration of irrigation systems according to Fig. 1 into a network that can be connected to a terminal device via a router. Fig. 6 illustrates the integration of irrigation systems according to Fig. 1 into a network that can be connected to a terminal device via a router and the Internet. Fig. 7 illustrates the integration of irrigation systems according to Fig. 1 into a network in which the communication interface of the irrigation systems can be connected directly to the Internet. Description of the embodiment

[0025] The figures show an irrigation system, generally designated 10, for potted plants 18, both indoors and outdoors. The outdoor area is, for example, a balcony or terrace. The irrigation system 10 is part of a network explained in more detail below. A potted plant 18 is watered using a terminal device 70 with suitable software.

[0026] A separate irrigation system 10 can be used for several rooms, such as the bedroom, living room, kitchen, and balcony. Each of the irrigation systems 10 can be used for several potted plants 18.

[0027] Each of the irrigation systems 10 essentially comprises a controller 1, a delivery device 2 for supplying water to the pot 84 of a potted plant, and one or more sensor arrangements 3. In the present exemplary embodiment, the delivery device 2 comprises a water inlet housing 55, a hose 12, a distributor 78, and a pump 53. The distributor 78, together with an electronic control and evaluation unit 11, is arranged in a control housing 80 of the controller 1. The pump 53 is arranged in the water inlet housing 55. The hose 12 connects an outlet 81 of the water inlet housing 55 to an inlet 82 on the control housing 80 leading to the distributor 78.

[0028] In the present embodiment, the sensor arrangement 3 comprises at least one humidity sensor 32, 34, 36 with a sensor 16. The sensor arrangement 3 is inserted with the sensor 16 into the substrate 83 in the pot 84. This is shown in Fig. 3 clearly visible.

[0029] The electronic control and evaluation device 11 and the distributor 78 are arranged in the control housing 80. The distributor 78 has an inlet 82 and six outlets 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. The water flow through the outlets 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 is controlled by solenoid valves 21. In this way, the flow through the outlets can be blocked or released with suitable control signals from the control and evaluation device 11. The solenoid valves 21 are in Fig. 3. It is understood that more or fewer outputs 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 can be provided on the distributor. If fewer plants are to be watered than there are outputs, the solenoid valves 21 on the unused outputs are permanently closed. The output is then unoccupied. If more plants are to be watered, either additional irrigation arrangements 10 can be used, or several plants can be watered simultaneously using additional distributors. The latter is particularly suitable if the plants have identical water requirements. The water flow through the inlet 82 is controlled by the pump 53 and a solenoid valve. A solenoid valve 30 is used to dose liquid fertilizer or other additives. The solenoid valve 30 opens as soon as the conductivity falls below a threshold value and water is required. Dosing is carried out by the switching frequency of the solenoid valve 30.This ensures that water and liquid fertilizer are released into the substrate in batches to mix. Changing the interval results in a change in the concentration of the liquid fertilizer.

[0030] Depending on the number and location of plants to be watered, hoses 13 are connected to outlets 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. These are detachably attached and can be easily replaced. They can also be locked in position so that they cannot come loose under pressure. From each of the outlets 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 of the distributor 78, water can be directed to a plant via a connected hose 13. Depending on the number of plants to be watered, more or fewer hoses 13 can be connected. The length of the hoses 13 can be selected according to the distance to the plants.

[0031] The water inlet housing 55 with the pump 53 is positioned in a water tank 51. Due to its own weight, the water inlet housing 55 remains at the bottom of the tank even when water 52 is added up to the water level 50. The water tank 51 is selected by the user based on its volume and design. This enables a significant reduction in the delivery volume and weight of the irrigation system and greater design flexibility.

[0032] Pump 53 is controlled by control and evaluation unit 11. It can be switched on as soon as at least one of the outputs of distributor 78 is open. Pump 53 is switched off when all outputs 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 of distributor 78 are closed.

[0033] The water inlet housing 55 is provided with two filter attachments 54. These are detachably attached to the water inlet housing 55 in the area of ​​the water inlets. This is shown in Fig. 2. The filter attachments 54 can be removed for cleaning.

[0034] Instead of a pump 53, an alternative embodiment can also use a water inlet housing 55 with a solenoid valve. This allows the irrigation system to be connected to an existing water supply.

[0035] Each output 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 of the distributor 78 is switched separately by the control and evaluation unit 11 using one of the solenoid valves 21. When a valve 21 is opened and the pump 53 is switched on, water flows from the water reservoir 51 with the pump 53 through the filters 54 and the inlets of the water inlet housing 55 into the water inlet housing. From there, it is pumped through the hose 12 and the inlet connection 82 to the distributor 78 in the control housing 80. Water then flows through those of the connections 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 for which the corresponding solenoid valve 21 is open and through the hose 13 to the pot 84 of the associated plant 18.

[0036] The opening of an output 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 is limited by a timer, for example, an electronic stopwatch. After the set time has elapsed, the corresponding output 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 is closed. The stopwatch is then reset. As soon as output 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 is opened again, the timer starts again. The opening duration of each output 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 can be set separately by the control and evaluation unit 11 via a terminal device 70 described below.

[0037] The control and evaluation unit 11 measures the status of the pump 53 using a voltage divider 26. Should a defect or dry running of the pump 53 occur, this defect or dry running is detected by the control and evaluation unit 11 and the pump 53 is shut down if necessary. An alarm signal is transmitted to a terminal device 70.

[0038] The control and evaluation unit 11 has at least one plug connection 28. The exchange of data and / or the supply of electrical energy takes place via the plug connection 28. A supply unit 60 with a power supply 61 is provided to supply the control and evaluation unit 11 with electrical energy. Alternatively or additionally, a rechargeable battery arrangement 62, a solar cell arrangement 63 and / or an induction coil 64 for inductive charging can be provided. One or more rechargeable batteries of the rechargeable battery arrangement 62 can be charged by the power supply 61, the solar cell arrangement 63 and / or the induction coil 64. Alternatively, discharged rechargeable batteries can be replaced. The charge state of the rechargeable battery arrangement 62 is displayed via terminal 70 by means of the control and evaluation unit 11.Alternatively, the induction coil 64 builds up a field when energy is supplied by the power supply 61, the solar cell arrangement 63 or accumulators and an induction coil of a rechargeable device is applied.

[0039] A plug connection 29 between the pump 53 and the control and evaluation unit 11 allows for easy disconnection, allowing a defective pump to be easily replaced. If a water connection is available, a solenoid valve can replace the pump. This allows, for example, a washing machine connection to be used.

[0040] At least one sensor arrangement 3 is provided for each pot 84 containing potted plants 18. The moisture sensors 32, 34, 36 of the sensor arrangement 3 operate capacitively and each generate an analog signal. The analog signals are converted into a digital signal by means of a microprocessor 38 in the sensor arrangement 3. The digital signal is transmitted wirelessly to the control and evaluation unit 11 via an antenna 39. For this purpose, the control and evaluation unit 11 also has an antenna 22 and a microprocessor 23. The measurements are taken at time intervals. The interval duration and frequency can be set via the terminal device 70. The parameters are transmitted from the terminal device 70 to the control and evaluation unit 11. The control and evaluation unit 11 transmits the set parameters to the sensor arrangement 3.

[0041] Alternatively, the control and evaluation unit 11 determines suitable intervals for measurements by the sensor array 3 based on several consecutive measured values ​​from the sensor array 3. The suitable parameters are transmitted from the control and evaluation unit 11 to the sensor array 3. In addition, the control and evaluation unit 11 alternatively determines the opening duration of the corresponding solenoid valve 21 based on several consecutive values ​​from the sensors 32, 34, 36. This has the advantage that the watering of plants in pots with different volumes can be adjusted without manual intervention. The user has the option of activating or deactivating this function via the terminal 70.

[0042] The sensor arrangement 3 contains a current source 40. The sensor arrangement 3 detects the voltage of the current source 40 and transmits the voltage value to the control and evaluation unit 11. This value can be read out by the terminal device 70 via the control and evaluation unit 11. If the value falls below a minimum value, a signal is generated. In the present embodiment, an LED 41 is provided on the sensor arrangement 3, which lights up when insufficient voltage is detected. In the present embodiment, an LED 24 is also provided on the control and evaluation unit 11, which can also light up. In addition, a message is displayed on the terminal device 70.

[0043] The sensor arrangement 3 can be connected via a cable using a plug connection 42. The plug connection 42 of the sensor arrangement 3 enables data exchange with the control and evaluation device 11, as well as the supply of electrical energy. An accumulator or battery arrangement as the power source of the sensor arrangement 3 can be manually changed. The sensor arrangement 3 detects whether it is a rechargeable or non-rechargeable power source. The rechargeable power source of the sensor arrangement 3 can be charged via the plug connection 42. Alternatively or additionally, the rechargeable power source can be charged by at least one solar cell arrangement 43 and / or by an induction coil 44. The rechargeable power source, the solar cell arrangement 43, the induction coil 44, and the plug connection 42 are interchangeable as a power supply module.

[0044] Outside of the measurement intervals, the sensor array 3 is placed in a sleep state to reduce power consumption. During the sleep state, the functions of the sensor array 3 are restricted. A real-time clock provided in the microprocessor 38 remains activated to measure time.

[0045] The sensor arrangement 3 measures the signal strength of the control and evaluation unit 11 and transmits this to the control and evaluation unit 11. In addition, the control and evaluation unit 11 measures the signal strength of the sensor arrangement 3. At least one signal strength can be read out with the terminal device via the control and evaluation unit 11. The arrangement works as follows:

[0046] The sensor array 3 can be used for various applications. The function of the sensor array 3 is assigned by the control and evaluation unit 11 using the terminal device 70 or a multifunction button 25.

[0047] A first possible application is that the sensor arrangement 3 is used to check the moisture content of a substrate 83. For this purpose, the sensor arrangement 3 with the probe 16 is inserted into the substrate up to a marking 48. The sensors 32, 34, 36 arranged on the probe 16 are then inside the substrate. This is shown in Fig. 3 clearly visible.

[0048] The solenoid valve 21 at the output 9 associated with this pot opens as soon as a value is transmitted from the sensor array 3 to the control and evaluation unit 11 that falls below the minimum humidity value in the control and evaluation unit 11. The minimum humidity value is set by the user via the terminal device or via the multifunction button of the control and evaluation unit 11 for each output. Alternatively, the minimum humidity value can be determined from a database or by an algorithm for the respective plant. The solenoid valve 21 will not open if the humidity value exceeds a threshold value. The threshold value can also be set manually or determined from a database or by an algorithm.

[0049] In a second application of the sensor arrangement 3, the water level 50 in the water tank 51 is checked using the same sensor arrangement 3. This is shown schematically in Fig. 3. If the water level 50 is below the lowest sensor 36, the opening of all solenoid valves 21 is blocked by the control and evaluation unit 11. This has the advantage of preventing the pump 53 from running dry. The user is informed via the terminal 70 and the LED 24 on the control and evaluation unit 11 that the water tank 51 needs to be filled with water 52. The user also receives information about the fill level of the water tank 51 via the terminal 70.

[0050] The capacitive sensors 32, 34, 36 of the sensor arrangement 3 are arranged at different heights. This is Fig. 3 can be clearly seen. This allows the humidity to be measured at different depths of the substrate 83. With the aid of the capacitive sensor 32 between at least two electrodes 33, 33', the electrical conductivity as a function of the humidity of the substrate 83 can be detected with the sensor arrangement 3 in a horizontal plane. The conductivity measurement is preferably carried out at a fixed humidity value. The additional sensors 34, 36 between the electrodes 35, 35', 37, 37' increase the accuracy of the conductivity to be determined as a function of the humidity value according to the aforementioned principle, since there are fluctuations in humidity and electrical conductivity at different depths of the substrate 83. The measurements at different depths to determine the conductivity as a function of the humidity value take place with a time delay. Each depth is scanned line by line.The electrodes outside the row in which measurements are being taken are separated from the circuit. This has the advantage that the current only flows between two electrodes in one row. Once the measurements have been taken, the polarity of all electrodes is reversed compared to the measurement. This applies an alternating current to the electrodes, preventing electrolysis, galvanization processes, deposits, or ion flow. Repeating the row scan allows for the determination of an average value. The repetition rate of sensor array 3 decreases the more rows on sensor array 3 are scanned.

[0051] When the sensor assembly 3 is used to determine the water level 50, the electrical conductivity of the water 52 is measured. The coating of the electrodes is preferably made of a titanium alloy.

[0052] The sensor arrangement 3 transmits the values ​​for determining the electrical conductivity to the control and evaluation unit 11. Based on the conductivity values, the control and evaluation unit 11 issues a fertilization recommendation to the user via the LED of the control and evaluation unit 11 or on the terminal device 70 if a target value is undershot. The user can change the target value using the multifunction button 25 or the terminal device 70, so that the fertilization recommendation is issued at a different threshold.

[0053] Alternatively, below a minimum conductance, a solenoid valve 21, 30 in the distributor is activated by the control and evaluation unit 11, so that fertilizer for irrigation is added through a fillable fertilizer container 31 as soon as the corresponding outlet is opened. Above a maximum conductance, the solenoid valve 30 in the distributor is closed when the corresponding outlet is opened. The minimum and maximum conductance can be set via the terminal device 70.

[0054] Alternatively, a calibration is performed using the determined conductance. The user performs the calibration in the control and evaluation unit 11 using the multifunction button 25 or the terminal device 70 and confirms it using the multifunction button 25 or the terminal device 70.

[0055] The length of at least one capacitive sensor 32, 34, 36 and at least two electrodes 33, 33', 35, 35', 37, 37' of the sensor arrangement 3 can be extended with a module 47. This has the advantage that measurements can be taken at greater depths in the substrate 83 or the water 52.

[0056] The sensor arrangement 3 measures its own temperature via a resistor 45 and transmits this value to the control and evaluation unit 11. The own temperature of each sensor arrangement 3 can be read from the terminal device via the control and evaluation unit 11. If the sensor arrangement 3 of the irrigation system falls below its own temperature by a minimum temperature, all outputs 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 of the irrigation system 10 are blocked by the control and evaluation unit 11. In addition, the LED 24 of the control and evaluation unit 11 lights up, and the control and evaluation unit 11 transmits a warning message to the terminal device 70, which is displayed there. This has the advantage of protecting the components of the irrigation system and informing the user, particularly when frost sets in. The protection function can be switched on and off separately for each sensor arrangement 3 via the multifunction button 25 or via the terminal device 70.

[0057] The sensor array 3 connects to the control and evaluation unit 11 of the irrigation system 10 that has the highest signal strength in the vicinity, either in the factory settings or after resetting to the factory settings by pressing a reset button 46 for a longer time. If the sensor array 3 is connected to a control and evaluation unit 11 in this way, the LED 24 of the control and evaluation unit 11 of the corresponding irrigation system lights up. If the sensor array 3 is then assigned to this irrigation system via the end device or via the multifunction button 25, the LED 24 of the control and evaluation unit 11 lights up again and the control and evaluation unit 11 transmits address data to the sensor array 3 so that the sensor array 3 prefers this irrigation system in the future. This has the advantage that, if there are multiple irrigation systems, the sensor array 3 only transmits data to the preferred irrigation system.

[0058] If the sensor arrangement 3 is used to measure the moisture content of the substrate 83, the control and evaluation unit 11 informs the sensor arrangement 3 of a rest period if the set maximum moisture content is exceeded. The sensor arrangement 3 then performs at least one further measurement before the rest period begins. The rest period is confirmed to the sensor arrangement 3 by the control and evaluation unit 11 if at least one further measurement has exceeded the maximum moisture content. The sensor arrangement 3 then switches to the rest state, and the rest period begins. After the rest period has expired, the sensor arrangement 3 connects to the control and evaluation unit 11 and performs at least one more measurement. The rest period can be set via the terminal device 70. The rest period has the advantage that the sensor arrangement 3 is placed in a long rest state, which reduces the power consumption of the sensor arrangement 3.The idle state of the sensor array 3 is interrupted by briefly pressing the reset button 46. The idle time is set by the control and evaluation unit 11 via the terminal device 70. Alternatively, the control and evaluation unit 11 automatically determines the idle time of the sensor array 3 based on at least one measured value of the sensor array 3. The automatic setting of the idle time by the control and evaluation unit 11 can be switched on and off using the terminal device 70.

[0059] If the sensor arrangement 3 is used to measure the water level 50, the control and evaluation unit 11 informs the sensor arrangement 3 of a rest time which corresponds to the time at which at least one sensor arrangement 3, which was set up to determine the moisture value, starts a measurement or which corresponds to the time at which at least one timer opens at least one output.

[0060] The sleep time of the sensor array 3 is reset to the factory default value if the connection to the control and evaluation unit 11 fails. If the sensor array 3 is used to measure the moisture content of the substrate 83, calibration can be performed using the multifunction button 25 or the terminal device 70 via the control and evaluation unit 11. The initiation of the calibration phase is communicated to the sensor array 3 by the control and evaluation unit 11. During calibration, the sensor array 3 must perform at least one measurement in air and at least one measurement in water 52. When measuring in water 52, the water level 50 must be on the mark 48 of the sensor array 3. The user confirms the measurements using the multifunction button 25 or the terminal device 70 via the control and evaluation unit 11.The confirmed measured value from the sensor arrangement 3 in the air replaces the lowest achievable humidity value in the control and evaluation unit 11 and the highest achievable humidity value in the water 52 for this sensor arrangement 3.

[0061] Each of the outputs 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 is opened by the control and evaluation unit 11 using an associated timer. This has the advantage that each of the outputs 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 can continue to be used for irrigation without the sensor array 3. Alternatively, the timer associated with the output can be used to suppress the opening of the output during certain periods by measuring the sensor array 3. This has the advantage that dry periods for water-storing plants such as cacti are possible. In this case, the rest period of the sensor array 3, during which the timer suppresses the output, can be extended. This has the advantage that the power consumption of the sensor array 3 is reduced at the time when the corresponding output 9 is blocked.The control and evaluation unit 11 uses the timer to determine the idle time for the sensor arrangement 3 and transmits this to the sensor arrangement 3, preferably when the sensor arrangement 3 is active. The determined idle time is the time between the current time and the time when the output is reopened by the timer. If the determined idle time is longer than the adjustable idle time, the determined idle time is transmitted to the sensor arrangement 3 as the idle time for the sensor arrangement 3. If the determined idle time is shorter than the adjustable idle time, the adjustable idle time is transmitted to the sensor arrangement 3 as the idle time for the sensor arrangement 3. The user sets the timer and the power-saving function for the sensor arrangement 3 using the terminal device 70.

[0062] The settings and retrieval of data of at least one irrigation system 10 are carried out via a software program on at least one terminal device 70. Such a terminal device is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet computer, a personal computer or a remote control or permanently installed user interface specifically designed for the irrigation system 10. In order to make settings or retrieve data, at least one terminal device 70 is connected to at least one irrigation system 10. This is Fig. 4. Alternatively, a router 73 transmits the data or settings between at least one irrigation system 10 and at least one terminal device 70. This variant is shown in Fig. 5. If the router 73 has an Internet access 74, the settings or the retrieval of data from at least one irrigation system 10 with at least one terminal device 70 are possible via the Internet. This is shown in Fig. 6. Alternatively, at least one irrigation system 10 has an Internet access 74, so that at least one terminal 70 retrieves data from at least one irrigation system or makes settings via the Internet. This is shown in Fig. 7. It is understood that these communication variants can be used both as alternatives to each other and as complements to each other.

[0063] For each of the outputs 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, a separate profile corresponding to the plant 18, the pot size, and its location is created or modified in the program of the terminal device 70 and transmitted to the control and evaluation unit 11 of the irrigation system. The control and evaluation unit 11 stores the profile in a non-volatile memory 27 to prevent data loss in the event of a power failure. If several irrigation systems 10 are connected to one another in a network, the control and evaluation unit 11 transmits the profile to the control and evaluation unit 11 of the irrigation system that has the output to which the profile is to be assigned. This has the advantage that the terminal device 70 only needs to be connected to one irrigation system in order to read or modify the profiles of each irrigation system in the network.

[0064] The control and evaluation unit 11 has a database with pre-installed profiles in the non-volatile memory, which can be selected via the multifunction button 25.

[0065] For example, a profile contains a profile name, a profile image, the color of the profile image, the assigned output, the minimum and maximum set moisture value of the substrate, the type of substrate, the minimum and maximum conductivity, the on and off duration of the output, the address of the sensor array 3, the measuring interval of the sensor array 3, the application option of the sensor array 3, the rest time of the sensor array 3, power saving modes, the calibration of the sensor array 3 and the timer settings.

[0066] Each irrigation system 10 within one of the networks shown can be additionally protected by the program with authorization, for example, a password or numeric code. Changes can only be made by the terminal device 70 if the password or numeric code from the irrigation system is correct. This has the advantage that the network can be an open network in which write access is only possible with a password or numeric code.

[0067] The program can be used to assign a room to each irrigation system in the network. The room is renamed in the program on the terminal device and transmitted to at least one control and evaluation unit 11. The room can be additionally protected with a password or a numeric code. Changes can only be made from the terminal device if the password or numeric code for the room is correct.

[0068] In addition, the user uses the program to specify the network settings, the names of the irrigation systems, the water tank sizes and fill levels, as well as the current time, and transmit them to at least one irrigation system within the network. The settings are stored in the non-volatile memory of the control and evaluation unit 11. If the settings affect another irrigation system within the network, the control and evaluation unit 11 connected to the terminal transmits the settings to the control and evaluation unit 11 of the other irrigation system.

[0069] The assignment of a sensor arrangement 3 to any output of the irrigation system or to an output of another irrigation system within the network is performed using the terminal device 70. For this purpose, the control and evaluation unit 11, which is connected to the sensor arrangement 3, transmits the address data from the control and evaluation unit 11 of the other irrigation system to the sensor arrangement 3. The sensor arrangement 3 then connects to the control and evaluation unit 11 of the other irrigation system. The control and evaluation unit 11 of the other irrigation system then assigns the sensor arrangement 3 to the output.

[0070] The control and evaluation unit 11 stores the measured values ​​of at least one sensor array 3 in the non-volatile memory 27. In addition, the corresponding times are recorded in the control and evaluation unit 11 for the measured values. The measured values ​​and corresponding times are forwarded within the network to other irrigation systems, which also store them in the non-volatile memory of the control and evaluation unit 11. Thus, the measured values ​​and corresponding times of all sensor arrays 3 within the network can be retrieved via the terminal device 70 via any irrigation system. With the help of the program, the measured values ​​and corresponding times are summarized in at least one diagram per sensor array 3 on the terminal device. This has the advantage that the user receives clear information about the measurements.

[0071] The exemplary embodiments explained above serve to illustrate the invention claimed in the claims. Features which are disclosed together with other features can generally also be used alone or in combination with other features which are explicitly or implicitly disclosed in the text or in the drawings in the exemplary embodiments. Dimensions and sizes are given only as examples. Suitable ranges will become apparent to those skilled in the art from their specialist knowledge and therefore need not be explained in more detail here. The disclosure of a specific embodiment of a feature does not mean that the invention is to be limited to this specific embodiment. Rather, such a feature can be implemented by a multitude of other embodiments familiar to those skilled in the art.The invention can therefore be realized not only in the form of the embodiments explained, but by all embodiments covered by the scope of protection of the appended claims.

[0072] The terms "top," "bottom," "right," and "left" refer exclusively to the accompanying drawings. It is understood that claimed devices may also assume other orientations. The terms "containing" and "comprising" mean that additional, unmentioned components may be provided. The terms "essentially," "predominantly," and "predominantly" encompass all features that exhibit a property or content in the majority, i.e., more than all other mentioned components or properties of the feature—for example, more than 50% for two components. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] WO 2017 / 180111A1

[0003] DE 20 2019 104581

[0004] CN 216 087 837 U

[0004] CN 114 402 976 A

[0004] EP 2 400 832 B1

[0005] DE 10 2020 123 914 A1

[0007] Cited non-patent literature

[0000] GrowCube“ is on the website https: / / www.kickstarter.com / projects / elecrow / growcube-a-smart-watering-kit-growsyour-plants-like-a-pro?lang=

[0006] MIYO“ on the website https: / / miyo.garden

[0007] www.Wikipedia.de, www.wissen.de or

[0024]

Claims

[1] Arrangement for watering a plurality of pots (84) with potted plants (18), comprising (a) a conveying device (12, 13, 53, 55) for supplying water into the pot (84); (b) a sensor (3); and (c) a control and evaluation unit (11) supplied with the signals from the sensor (3) for controlling the water supply; characterized by , that (d) the conveying device (12, 13, 53, 55) has an inlet housing (55) with inlet openings which can be inserted into a water reservoir (51), and a pump (53) is provided with which water can be conveyed from the water reservoir (51) to the pots (84). [2] Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized by that the pump (53) is arranged in the inlet housing (55). [3] Arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that a filter (54) can be detachably attached to the inlet housing (55). [4] Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the water reservoir (51), the control and evaluation unit (11) and / or the pot (84) form separate units which are arranged at a distance from one another and the conveying device (12, 13, 53, 55) comprises water-conducting hose or pipe connections (12, 13) between the units. [5] Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the conveying device (12, 13, 53, 55) comprises solenoid valves (21, 30) or other valves which are supplied with control signals from the control and evaluation unit (11). [6] Arrangement according to claim 5, characterized bythat the volume flow of water through the conveying device (12, 13, 53, 55) can be controlled by means of the valves (21, 30) in accordance with the water requirement of the individual plant (18) in the pot (84), wherein the water requirement is determined from the sensor signals of the sensor (3) in the pot (84) and stored data or data determined according to an algorithm, which are stored for the individual plant (18) in the control and evaluation unit (11), in a terminal (70) and / or in a central server. [7] Arrangement according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by that a timer is provided for actuating the valves (21, 30). [8] Arrangement according to claim 7, characterized bythat the control and evaluation unit (11) is set up in such a way that the valves (21, 30) are actuated for a selected period of time by means of a timer and the sensor is put into a rest state during this time and is actuated for another period of time in accordance with sensor signals from the sensor (3). [9] Arrangement according to one of claims 5 to 8, characterized by that the valves (21, 30) and the control and evaluation unit (11) are arranged in a common housing (80). [10] Arrangement according to claim 9, characterized by that connections (4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) are provided on the housing (80) of the control and evaluation unit (11) downstream of the valves (21), to which hose or pipe connections (12, 13) can be detachably connected. [11] Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that several pots (84) can be connected to a control and evaluation unit (11). [12] Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one further control and evaluation unit (11) is provided, and the control and evaluation units communicate with each other and data from each control and evaluation unit (11) can be stored on at least one further control and evaluation unit (11). [13] Arrangement according to claim 12, characterized by that each control and evaluation unit (11) is provided with its own pump (53) in its own pump housing (55). [14] Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the control and evaluation unit (11) has a communication interface for communication with the sensor (3), a mobile terminal (70) and / or further control and evaluation units (11), via which information, parameters and / or control commands can be communicated. [15] Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the communication interface is set up for wireless communication. [16] Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the sensor (3) is a moisture sensor which can be inserted into the plant substrate (83). [17] Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that further sensors are provided which are selected from the group consisting of: temperature sensor, brightness sensor, water level sensor, humidity sensor and conductivity sensor. [18] Arrangement according to claim 17, characterized by that a water level sensor is provided which is identical in construction to the humidity sensor and the location of the sensor (3) on the control and evaluation device (11) is selectable. [19] Arrangement according to one of claims 16 to 18, characterized by that the sensor (3) is arranged in a sensor arrangement with further sensors at different heights. [20] Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the sensor (3) has electronics which can be put into an energy-saving mode. [21] Arrangement according to one of claims 17 to 20, characterized by that the conductivity of the substrate and / or the water can be measured at a fixed moisture value. [22] Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the sensors can be expanded with a module.

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