Device for instant and volumetric control and management of first-use water or recovered water and its nutrients for regenerative crop irrigation

The device addresses inefficiencies in irrigation systems by providing real-time, volumetric control of water and nutrients, enhancing soil regeneration and aquifer recharge, achieving high efficiency and sustainability in agricultural practices.

WO2026084577A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-04-23AET SOLUCIONES SUSTENTABLES SA DE CV
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
AET SOLUCIONES SUSTENTABLES SA DE CV
Filing Date
2025-12-11
Publication Date
2026-04-23

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing irrigation systems are inefficient, leading to water loss, soil degradation, and nutrient leaching, which exacerbates water scarcity and soil infertility, particularly in regions affected by droughts, and there is a lack of technology that effectively manages reclaimed water for precision fertigation and aquifer recharge.

Method used

A device for instantaneous and volumetric control of water and nutrients, integrating real-time data processing and anti-vandalism features, which calculates irrigation depths using high-precision AI, filters impurities, and delivers water and nutrients directly to crops while recharging aquifers.

Benefits of technology

Achieves over 90% water use efficiency, promotes soil regeneration, and supports sustainable agriculture by optimizing water and nutrient use, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers, and enhancing aquifer recharge.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention relates to a device for the instant and volumetric control and management of first-use water or recovered water and its nutrients for regenerative crop irrigation, characterised in that it comprises a water inlet pipe from a water supply source, to which a hydraulic train is connected with a first opening and closing valve for pressurising the system, connected to said inlet pipe and to the lower end of a flow meter body housed in a cabinet of a real-time electronic communication and control module that controls the automated operation of the device; as well as comprising a second flow control valve, at least one filter for retaining solids that enter the system, and a distribution section with a plurality of water distribution pipes with automated three-way pressure-regulating solenoid valves, which are controlled by said electronic communication and control module and are in turn connected to a water discharge outlet pipe leading to a water supply distribution network on the agricultural land; a liquid fertiliser injection kit; a low and high pressure drainage system; a control panel with a plurality of pressure gauges and pressure-regulating pilots; and a vandal-proof protective casing.
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Description

[0001] INSTANTANEOUS AND VOLUMETRIC HANDLING AND CONTROL DEVICE FOR FIRST-USE OR RECOVERED WATER AND ITS NUTRIENTS FOR CROP IRRIGATION AND REGENERATION

[0002] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0003] The present invention falls within the field of agriculture in general, and in particular relates to equipment, devices, and systems for controlling water flow for irrigation in cultivated land and for discharging water on agricultural land for other purposes. More specifically, it refers to a device for the instantaneous and volumetric management and control of primary water and, where applicable, the complete utilization of reclaimed water and its nutrients for irrigation, precision fertigation in crops, soil regeneration, and / or subsurface aquifer recharge.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Water is one of the most critical resources in agriculture, and its efficient use is key to ensuring crop sustainability, especially in regions affected by water scarcity. A lack of water in agricultural soils generates a series of problems that affect both crop productivity and the health of the agricultural ecosystem; this is also known as water stress, which directly impacts the ability of plants to grow and develop properly.

[0006] Insufficient water prevents plants from absorbing essential nutrients from the soil, as water is the primary medium through which nutrients dissolve and are absorbed by the plant's root system. Water scarcity also impairs photosynthesis, reducing CO2 uptake and consequently hindering growth, flowering, and fruit development.

[0007] On the other hand, it is known that agricultural soils with low moisture tend to become compacted. This occurs because the soil structure becomes more rigid and compact, denser in the absence of water, which hinders root development and reduces water infiltration from future irrigation or rainfall.

[0008] The lack of water in agricultural soils also reduces the cohesion between soil particles, making them more vulnerable to erosion by wind or surface water. This erosion removes the most fertile layers, rich in nutrients, minerals, and microelements, reducing soil quality and affecting its capacity to support future crops. The loss of fertile soil also increases the need for fertilizer, which can lead to higher costs and environmental damage, as well as salinization of agricultural lands. This salinization occurs because of the accumulation of salts in the soil due to poor irrigation or excessive evaporation. These salts accumulate on the surface in the face of water scarcity, severely affecting soil fertility and the ability of plants to absorb water and nutrients.

[0009] Water is also essential for maintaining a healthy population of soil microorganisms, which are responsible for decomposing organic matter and recycling essential nutrients for crops. A lack of water reduces the presence and activity of these microorganisms, deteriorating soil quality and the ecosystem's ability to regenerate.

[0010] In very extreme cases, prolonged drought and the lack of proper water management can lead to desertification, which is the irreversible degradation of the soil, losing its structure, water retention capacity, fertility and organic matter, transforming into sterile land making agriculture unviable.

[0011] Additionally, it is estimated that of the more than 800 km 3 of wastewater generated worldwide, more than 600 km 3Many of these wastewaters, primarily in developing countries, go untreated, polluting lakes, rivers, and seas, mainly with pathogens (bacteria, viruses, and parasites) and nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus). This results in the deaths of nearly 900,000 people annually and the eutrophication of water bodies, with severe consequences for ecosystems. One reason why countries with very limited resources do not invest in wastewater treatment is that they prioritize their resources on more basic needs, such as providing water and food.

[0012] Therefore, it is important to have irrigation devices, systems and equipment that allow, in addition to emitting focused and directed irrigations to the root systems of cultivated plants, fertigation of crops, programming discharges and directing volumes of water and nutrients in soils for their regeneration, trapping nutrients in the surface layers and infiltrating the excess volumes free of nutrients through a managed recharge of the aquifer carried out in a subsurface manner.

[0013] Regenerative irrigation is a nature-based solution that aims not only to optimize the use of water and nutrients for crops, but also, when using reclaimed wastewater with nutrients for agriculture, to use the excess nutrients to regenerate and improve soil health, and the excess water, now free of nutrients, to recharge aquifers with high-quality, low-cost water.

[0014] Over the years, several irrigation systems have been developed aimed at optimizing water use, reducing waste, and increasing agricultural productivity.

[0015] The main existing irrigation systems are gravity irrigation, whereby water flows through canals or furrows to the agricultural fields; however, it has low efficiency due to evaporation and surface runoff, which also generate erosion in the farmland; it is estimated that 50% to 60% of the water is lost before reaching the plants; another type of irrigation is sprinkler irrigation, which directs rainwater through systems of pipes and sprinklers specially designed to spray water onto the farmland and although it is more efficient than gravity irrigation, it also suffers losses due to evaporation and wind, which reduces its effectiveness;Another type of irrigation is drip irrigation, which is a more recent technology, where water is delivered directly to the roots of the plants through drippers connected to irrigation tapes connected to a pressurization system that eliminates evaporation and runoff, avoiding the use of excess water. The system can have an efficiency of up to 95% and is associated with a more rational use of water, in addition to allowing fertigation.

[0016] Other emerging technologies include precision irrigation systems, which focus on leveraging technologies such as soil moisture sensors, software-controlled automated irrigation systems, and scheduling systems, along with satellite imagery, drones, or machine vision using camera systems, to monitor moisture in agricultural fields. However, although modern irrigation technologies have proven effective, their adoption remains limited in many regions due to high initial costs, a lack of operational training, and the necessary infrastructure for implementation.

[0017] On the other hand, climate change presents a significant challenge. As droughts become more frequent and intense, the demand for irrigation water increases while its availability decreases drastically. This also creates a demand for improved technology that optimizes irrigation water use.

[0018] As nations face increasing challenges related to water availability, efficient irrigation systems will not only contribute to greater water sustainability, but will also have a significant impact on water conservation and food security.

[0019] The present invention aims to provide a device for the instantaneous and volumetric management and control of virgin or reclaimed water for precision fertigation, soil regeneration, and / or subsurface aquifer recharge using soils rich in organic matter and life as a filtering and nutrient-capturing element based on nature. This addresses the problems with conventional systems regarding inefficiency in irrigation and food production, soil loss and desertification resulting from the leaching of the soil's organic layer and the agrochemicals traditionally used, and the decreased permeability of the remaining inert and compacted soils, which in turn do not infiltrate or retain moisture in the soil, much less in the aquifer, reinforcing a vicious cycle that is sometimes impossible to reverse without human intervention.

[0020] A search was conducted to determine the closest prior art, and the following documents were found.

[0021] Patent MX 279524 B, belonging to Francisco Xavier Valdés Simancas, a co-author of this application, was found. Filed on October 24, 2006, and granted on September 8, 2010, it discloses a device and method for controlling agricultural fertigation using an encrypted key. It provides a comprehensive irrigation control system with a control module (12) that allows the user to connect a smart key (13). This single module addresses the farmer's needs for measuring and supplying water, including the dosage of fertilizer used in irrigation.The use of a pre-authorized electronic key allows the optimal amount of water for the specific crop to reach the plot, as determined by the analysis of certain variables that influence that specific area. It does not use electricity from the public grid for its operation and has several measurement and control elements grouped in a cabinet for protection from the weather and vandalism that can occur in the field. This cabinet has two separate compartments: one for administration, accessible only to authorized personnel, and another for the user to operate the irrigation system. However, this device and method only perform a limited portion of the functions of the device in the present invention and lacks the capacity to integrate all the variables into a single-device solution. Furthermore, its structural configuration, drive elements, and function differ significantly from those of the present invention.

[0022] Patent application US11805740B2 by Periard Larrivee Yann and Pelletier Vincent, dated September 25, 2020, was located, disclosing a method and system for regulating plant irrigation in a crop field. The method comprises obtaining soil water tension (SWT) and / or soil water content (SWC) data for a crop field. The SWT and / or SWC data are segmented into three segments. A respective line of best fit is determined for each of the three segments. The intersections of the lines of best fit are used to determine an irrigation start threshold and an irrigation stop threshold. Devices controlling irrigation of the crop field must start or stop irrigation based on the irrigation start threshold and the irrigation stop threshold.

[0023] However, it focuses more on electronic control systems and is based on an automated control system to regulate the irrigation of plants in a crop field, the system being communicatively coupled to: one or more monitoring sensors to monitor the hydrodynamic conditions in the given crop field, and one or more controllable devices that can operate to irrigate the given crop field; the system comprising at least one processor, and memory that stores a plurality of executable instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the system to retrieve soil water tension (SWT) data and / or soil water content (SWC) data, corresponding to the crop field, recorded by one or more monitoring sensors; segments the SWT and / or SWC data into three segments; determines, for each of the three segments, a respective line of best fit;determines a first intersection between the line of best fit for the first segment and the line of best fit for the second segment; determines a second intersection between the line of best fit for the second segment and the line of best fit for the third segment; stores the first intersection as an irrigation stop threshold representative of a desired irrigation endpoint; stores the second intersection as an irrigation start threshold representative of a desired irrigation start point; and monitors the SWT and / or SWC data received from one or more monitoring sensors, and in response to a determination that the SWT and / or SWC reaches the irrigation start threshold, causes one or more controllable devices to start or increase irrigation of the crop field;and in response to a determination that the SWT and / or SWC has reached the irrigation stopping threshold, cause one or more controllable devices to stop or reduce irrigation of the crop field.;

[0024] However, said method and a system for regulating the irrigation of plants in a crop field only perform a limited part of the functions of the device in the present invention, but do not have the mechanical components, arrangement, configuration and operating components that allow the regulation of flows, volumes and water dosage control and its structural configuration, drive elements and function differ significantly from the present invention.

[0025] Given the need for a device for the instantaneous and volumetric management and control of first-use or reclaimed water with nutrient preservation for precision fertigation, soil regeneration, and / or subsurface recharge of high-quality, low-cost water to aquifers, the present invention was developed. It serves as an interface between cutting-edge technologies for calculating irrigation depths, with the aim of achieving highly productive and efficient agriculture, as well as the controlled and quantified delivery of water to fields and agricultural plots. This is combined with tools for measuring climatological variables and humidity and nutrient data at different depths in real time, which generates calculations through algorithms complemented by high-precision artificial intelligence to determine the exact amount of water and nutrients necessary for optimal crop growth.Soil regeneration and its capacity to trap nutrients to infiltrate high-quality, nutrient-free water into the aquifer for later use.

[0026] OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION

[0027] The main objective of the present invention is to make available a device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use water or recovered water and its nutrients for crop and regenerative irrigation that serves as an interface between cutting-edge technologies for calculating irrigation depths, with the aim of achieving high productivity and efficiency in agriculture, as well as the controlled and quantified delivery of water in agricultural fields and plots.

[0028] Another objective of the invention is to make available said device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use water or recovered water and its nutrients for crop irrigation, precision fertigation in crops, soil regeneration, nutrient trapping and / or subsurface recharge of aquifers, which also structurally comprises anti-vandalism elements.

[0029] Another objective of the invention is to make available said device for the instant and volumetric handling and control of first-use or recovered water and its nutrients for crop and regenerative irrigation, which also has functionalities to perform the injection of fertilizer into the system, as well as with safety filters to eliminate the solids present in the first-use or recovered water that may obstruct the drip irrigation lines.

[0030] Another objective of the invention is to make available said device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use water or recovered water and its nutrients for crop and regenerative irrigation, which also offers a comprehensive solution to the enormous problem of inefficiency in the use of water in agriculture.

[0031] Another objective of the invention is to make available said device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use water or recovered water and its nutrients for crop and regenerative irrigation, which also allows achieving overall water use efficiencies of over 90%, and even aspire to more with future technological refinements.

[0032] Another objective of the invention is to make available said device for the instant and volumetric handling and control of first-use water or recovered water and its nutrients for crop and regenerative irrigation, which also allows for fully automatic operation, eliminating the need for labor to irrigate the plots and allowing the programming of irrigation and / or recharge schedules that match the water supply generated by the water that the plant receives, both sanitary and rainwater, and is capable of treating, for which reason said systems have real-time communication.

[0033] Another objective of the invention is to make available said device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use water or recovered water and its nutrients for crop and regenerative irrigation, which also allows for the precise measurement of the amount of water used at all times and shares data back to the system, facilitating the governance and management component of the water resource, thus preventing the unaccounted-for overexploitation of the vital liquid.

[0034] Another objective of the invention is to make available said device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use water or recovered water and its nutrients for crop and regenerative irrigation, which can also operate with recovered treated water, which promotes a culture of reuse of water resources and allows the use of organic nutrients present in wastewater, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, to replace chemical fertilizers.

[0035] Another objective of the invention is to make available said device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use or reclaimed water and its nutrients for crop irrigation and regeneration, allowing the use of all the recovered nutrient-rich wastewater where productive crops, cover crops and / or the soil are used for nutrient trapping and when there is a surplus volume, these infiltrate into the aquifer but taking advantage of the plants and the soil as a solution based on the nature of nutrient trapping and the infiltration of the remaining volumes into the aquifer to produce high-quality water for future drinking use.

[0036] Another objective of the invention is to make available said device for the instant and volumetric handling and control of first-use water or recovered water and its nutrients for crop and regenerative irrigation, which also offers a more sustainable system, not only in the water field, but also in the energy and carbon footprint field.

[0037] And all those qualities and objectives that will become apparent when making a general and detailed description of the present invention supported by the illustrated modalities.

[0038] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] In general, a device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use or reclaimed water and its nutrients for crop irrigation and regeneration, according to the present invention, comprises a water inlet duct from a water supply source, which is connected by hermetic means to a hydraulic train, defined by a first opening and closing valve for pressurizing the system, connected by hermetic means to said inlet duct and fixed by hermetic means to the lower end of a flow meter body that is housed in a cabinet of an electronic communication and control module that controls the automated operation of the device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use or reclaimed water for irrigation, precision fertigation in crops, soil regeneration and / or subsurface aquifer recharge; comprisingFurthermore, along the main duct of the hydraulic train, a second flow control valve is included, after which at least one filter for retaining solids entering the system is connected by airtight means; a distribution section with a plurality of water distribution ducts is connected by airtight means to said at least one filter, wherein each of the plurality of water distribution ducts comprises, connected by airtight means, a three-way solenoid-operated automated pressure regulating valve controlled by said electronic communication and control module and each of which is in turn connected to a water discharge outlet duct leading to a water supply distribution network in the cultivated fields; a liquid fertilizer injection kit defined by a liquid fertilizer delivery water supply duct, the end of which is connected by means ofA connection in the rear area of ​​the flow meter body, configured to provide a water flow and a pressure differential, and connected by means of a T-connector, defining an arm where an air release valve configured to purge air from the system is connected by means of a hermetic connection, and an arm where an automated flow control valve controlled by said electronic communication and control module is connected, which is connected by means of a hermetic connection to a section of distribution duct comprising a manually operated shut-off valve, after which a Venturi tube is connected by means of a hermetic connection, defining a connecting spigot of a liquid fertilizer supply duct from a liquid fertilizer source, and a connecting end that connects to the main line after said second flow control valve connected to the main duct of the train.hydraulic; wherein the assembly of the manually operated gate valve and the said second flow control valve allow generating a pressure differential necessary to activate the Venturi and draw in the liquid fertilizer; further comprising a low pressure and high pressure drainage system and a control panel comprising a plurality of pressure gauges of the automated three-way solenoid pressure regulating valves and pressure regulating pilots that regulate the operation of the different automated three-way solenoid pressure regulating valves and of the plurality of water distribution ducts to the distribution outlet ducts, and a vandal-proof protective housing configured to protect the device.

[0040] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, said electronic communication and control module cabinet that controls the automated operation of the device, consists of a housing configured to accommodate the electronic board and electronic control systems, the operating electrical power supply systems, exposed connectors for receiving the control cables of the solenoids controlling the plurality of three-way automated pressure regulating valves, and at least one exposed wireless communication antenna; further comprising at the rear fastening means for fixing to the body of the flow meter and a central cavity in the front wall of said housing, configured for the passage and exposure of the faceplate of said flow means.

[0041] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the flow meter body comprises a tubular section defining a lower end where the first opening and closing valve for pressurizing the system is connected, and an upper end where another tubular section or elbow of the hydraulic train is connected; further comprising a cylindrical radial projection housing the flow meter, which has a propeller that rotates due to the flow of water and whose measuring face passes through the cabinet of the electronic communication and control module, being exposed through the central cavity in the front wall of the housing of the electronic communication and control module; the flow meter body further comprising a pair of lateral fins with holes configured to receive the fastening means for securing the rear part of the cabinet of the electronic communication and control module.

[0042] In one embodiment of the invention, said liquid fertilizer injection kit comprises, between the automated water flow control valve and the manually operated shut-off valve, a branch with a manual water intake valve, configured to discharge water to the outside, necessary for dissolving fertilizer or for other uses.

[0043] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, said airtight connection means between the different pipe sections, flow control valves, flow meter, filter, three-way solenoid automated pressure regulating valves, automated flow control valve, comprises the association of grooved flexible nipple and coupling sections.

[0044] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, said at least one solids retention filter is a filter ring filter comprising a screw-on cap that is removed to provide access to the interior for cleaning the filter rings; and comprising at the inlet and outlet thereof two water inlet and outlet pressure detector probes, each connected to a pressure gauge mounted on said control panel to determine the inlet and outlet pressure and to determine when cleaning is necessary when there is a pressure drop.

[0045] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the body of said at least one filter externally comprises connection means for receiving fixing means for said control board.

[0046] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, said automated three-way solenoid pressure regulating valves of the plurality of water distribution ducts of the hydraulic train, connected to each water discharge outlet duct to a water supply distribution network in the farmland, are controlled by said electronic communication and control module and comprise upstream high-pressure hose interconnection and downstream low-pressure hose interconnections, connected to the pressure regulating pilots for water pressure regulation and connected to the pressure gauges mounted on said control panel to the water discharge outlet ducts to a water supply distribution network in the farmland.

[0047] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, said low-pressure drainage system comprises a drainage duct to which the drain hoses of the lines of the automated three-way solenoid pressure regulating valves, the pilot hoses, and a duct coming from the air expulsion valve are connected.

[0048] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, said high-pressure drainage system comprises a drainage duct where a solenoid valve for opening and closing controlled by said electronic communication and control module is connected with connectors, and a cleaning and drainage duct connected with connectors to the lower area of ​​said at least one solids filter, for purging and cleaning said filter.

[0049] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, said vandal-proof protective housing comprises a base box with a hinged lid attached by vandal-proof hinges; wherein said base box defines a bottom, a front wall, a rear wall, and two side walls, wherein the front wall is lower than the rear wall and the side walls are L-shaped, defining a descending edge from the ends of the rear wall to the ends of the front wall; wherein said hinged lid is attached by vandal-proof hinges arranged on the inner part of the edge of the rear wall and on the inner part of the rear edge of said hinged lid.The hinged lid has the same shape as the base box, but is arranged symmetrically to form a rectangular, quadrangular or cubic prismatic body when coupled together, and includes a three-point anti-vandalism locking mechanism located on the front of the casing.

[0050] The hinged cover of the vandal-proof protective housing externally comprises solar cells for powering the electrical power supply systems for the operation of the device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use or recovered water for irrigation, precision fertigation in crops, soil regeneration and / or subsurface recharge of aquifers.

[0051] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, said base box of the vandal-proof housing comprises a drainage grid in the back wall, connected to a drainage duct.

[0052] In the preferred embodiment of the invention, said base box of the vandal-proof housing is embedded and fixed with fixing means in a projecting perimetrical flange drilled from a metal box embedded or fixed in a steel-reinforced concrete base, where a portion of said water inlet duct from a water supply source is housed, drainage ducts connected to said drainage grate and ducts connected to said drainage duct from the high and low pressure drainage systems, as well as water outlet ducts where the ends of the water discharge outlet duct are connected to the water supply distribution network in the farmland;further comprising said reinforced concrete base at least two reinforced concrete piles configured to fit and anchor in the ground the device for the instantaneous and volumetric management and control of first-use or recovered water for irrigation, precision fertigation in crops, soil regeneration and / or subsurface recharge of aquifers.;

[0053] To better understand the characteristics of the invention, the following drawings, which are illustrative but not limiting, are included as an integral part of this description.

[0054] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0055] Figure 1 shows an exploded view of the device without a protective casing for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use water or recovered water and its nutrients for crop irrigation and regeneration, in accordance with the present invention.

[0056] Figure 2 shows a conventional perspective of the device without a protective casing, shown in Figure 1, with the hydraulic train fully assembled, in accordance with the present invention.

[0057] Figure 3 shows a rear view of the device without protective casing, shown in Figure 1, with the hydraulic train fully assembled, in accordance with the present invention.

[0058] Figure 4 shows a top view of the device without protective casing, shown in Figure 1, with the hydraulic train fully assembled, in accordance with the present invention.

[0059] Figure 5 shows a conventional perspective view of the device with the hinged lid open, for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use or recovered water for irrigation, precision fertigation in crops, soil regeneration and / or subsurface recharge of aquifers, in accordance with the present invention.

[0060] Figure 6 shows a rear view of the device with the hinged lid open, for instant and volumetric handling and control of first-use or recovered water for irrigation, precision fertigation in crops, soil regeneration and / or subsurface recharge of aquifers, in accordance with the present invention.

[0061] For a better understanding of the invention, a detailed description of some of its embodiments will be provided, as shown in the drawings attached to this description for illustrative, but not limiting, purposes. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0062] The characteristic details of the device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use or recovered water for irrigation, precision fertigation in crops, soil regeneration and / or subsurface recharge of aquifers, in accordance with the present invention, are clearly shown in the following description and in the attached illustrative drawings, with the same reference signs serving to indicate the same parts.

[0063] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use or reclaimed water for irrigation, precision fertigation in crops, soil regeneration, and subsurface aquifer recharge, according to the present invention, comprises a water inlet duct (1) from a water supply source, to which a hydraulic train is connected by hermetic connecting means (2). This train is defined by a first opening and closing valve (3) for pressurizing the system, which is fixed by a hermetic connecting means (4) to the lower end of a flow meter body (5). This body is housed in a cabinet containing an electronic communication and control module (6) that controls the automated operation of the device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use or reclaimed water for irrigation, precision fertigation in crops,soil regeneration and / or subsurface aquifer recharge; further comprising after a flow meter (5) an elbow (7) connected at both ends with watertight fixing means (8) of the hydraulic train, a second flow control valve (9), after which is connected by watertight connecting means (10) to at least one filter (11) for retaining solids entering the system; a distribution section (12) with a plurality of water distribution ducts (13), connected by watertight connecting means (14) to said at least one filter (11),wherein each of the plurality of water distribution ducts (13) comprises, connected by hermetic connecting means (14), an automated three-way pressure regulating valve (15) with solenoid (16) that is controlled by said electronic communication and control module (6) and that is in turn each connected by hermetic fixing means (17) to a water discharge outlet duct (18) to a water supply distribution network in the cultivated lands.

[0064] A liquid fertilizer injection kit defined by a liquid fertilizer carry-through water supply duct (19) whose end is connected by airtight means (20) to the rear of the flow meter body (5), configured to provide a water flow and a pressure differential, and which is connected by means to a T-connector (21) defining an arm to which an air release valve (22) configured for purging air from the system is connected by airtight means, and an arm to which an automated flow control valve (23) controlled by said electronic communication and control module (6) is connected, which is connected by means of airtight means (24) to a section of distribution duct to which a branch with a manual water intake valve (25) is connected, configured to discharge water to the outside, required for fertilizer dissolution or for other uses, and after which aIt comprises a manually operated shut-off valve (26), after which a Venturi tube (28) is connected by airtight means (27), defining a connection spigot (29) of a liquid fertilizer supply line (not shown) from a liquid fertilizer source (not shown), and a connection end (30) that connects to the main line of the hydraulic train after said second flow control valve (9); wherein the assembly of the manually operated shut-off valve (26) and said second flow control valve (9) allows the generation of a pressure differential necessary to activate the Venturi (28) and draw in the liquid fertilizer; further comprising a low-pressure drainage system and a high-pressure drainage system (36) and a control panel (31) comprising a plurality of pressure gauges (32), an automated three-way pressure regulating valve (15) with solenoid (16), and regulating pilots.pressure (33) that regulate the operation of the different three-way automated pressure regulating valves (15) with solenoid (16) of the water distribution ducts (13) to the water discharge outlet ducts (18). Said electronic communication and control module cabinet (6) that controls the automated operation of the device, consists of a housing configured to accommodate the electronic board (not shown) and the electronic control systems (not shown), the operating electrical power supply systems (not shown), exposed connectors (6a) to receive the control cables of the solenoids (16) that control the plurality of three-way automated pressure regulating valves (15), and at least one exposed wireless communication antenna (6b); further comprising at the rear fastening means (6c) for fixing to the body of the flow meter (5) and a central cavity (6d) in the front wall of saidhousing, configured for the passage and exposure of the faceplate (5a) of said flow meter body (5).

[0065] Said body of the flow meter (5) is formed by a tubular section (5b) that defines a lower end where said first opening and closing valve (3) for pressurizing the system is connected and an upper end where an elbow (7) of the hydraulic train is connected; further comprising a cylindrical radial projection (5c) where the flow meter is housed, which has a propeller (not shown) that rotates due to the passage of water and whose measuring face (5a) passes through the cabinet of the electronic communication and control module (6), being exposed through said central cavity (6d) of the front wall of said housing of the electronic communication and control module (6); said body of the flow meter (5) further comprising a pair of lateral fins (5d) with holes configured to receive the fixing means (6c) for fixing the rear part of said cabinet of the electronic communication and control module (6).

[0066] Said at least one filter (11) for solid retention is a filter ring filter comprising a threaded cap (11a) at its lower end which is removed to access the interior for cleaning the filter rings (not shown); and comprising at the inlet and outlet thereof two pressure-detecting probes (11b) for water inlet and outlet, connected to a pressure gauge (34) mounted on said control panel (31) to determine the inlet and outlet pressure of the filter (11) and to determine when cleaning is necessary when there is a pressure drop.

[0067] It can be observed that the body of said at least one filter (11) externally comprises connection means (11c) for receiving fixing means for fixing said control board (31).

[0068] These automated three-way pressure regulating valves (15) with solenoid (16) of the plurality of water distribution ducts (13) of the hydraulic train, connected to each water discharge outlet duct (18) to a water supply distribution network in the farmland, are controlled by said electronic communication and control module (6) and comprise upstream high pressure hose interconnection (35) and downstream low pressure hose interconnections (not shown), connected to the pressure regulating pilots (33) for water pressure regulation and connected to the pressure gauges (32) mounted on said control panel (31) to the water discharge outlet ducts (18) to a water supply distribution network in the farmland.

[0069] Said low pressure drainage system comprises a drainage duct (36) to which the drainage hoses (not shown) from the lines of the automated three-way pressure regulating valves (15) with solenoid (16), the hoses of the pressure regulating pilots (33) are connected and a duct (37) coming from the air expulsion valve (22) with an automated control valve (38).

[0070] Said high-pressure drainage system comprises a drainage duct (39) where a solenoid valve (41) for opening and closing controlled by said electronic communication and control module (6) is connected with connectors and a cleaning and drainage duct (42) connected with connectors to the lower area of ​​said at least one solids filter (11), for purging and cleaning said filter.

[0071] According to Figure 5, the device as a whole is housed in a vandal-proof protective casing (43) comprising a base box (44) with a hinged lid (45) attached by vandal-proof hinges (46); wherein said base box (44) defines a bottom (not shown), a front wall (47), a rear wall (48) and two side walls (49), wherein the front wall (47) is shorter than the rear wall (48) and the side walls

[0072] (49) have an L-shape, defining a descending edge from the ends of the rear wall (48) to the ends of the front wall (47); wherein said hinged cover (45) is joined by vandal-proof hinges (46) arranged on the inner part of the edge of the rear wall (48) and on the inner part of the rear edge of said hinged cover (45). Said hinged cover (45) has the same shape as the base box (44) but arranged symmetrically, so that when coupled it forms a rectangular, quadrangular or cubic prismatic body and comprising a vandal-proof locking means (50) that is arranged in the front area of ​​the housing.

[0073] In Figures 5 and 6, the same reference symbols used in Figures 1 and 2 are used to indicate the same parts that have already been described in the detailed description section for Figures 1 and 2.

[0074] Figure 6 further shows that the vandal-proof housing (43) externally comprises solar cells (51) for powering the electrical power supply systems for the operation of the device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use or reclaimed water for irrigation, precision fertigation in crops, soil regeneration, and / or subsurface aquifer recharge. Referring again to Figures 1 to 6, the base box (44) of the vandal-proof housing (43) includes a drainage grate (52, see Figures 1 and 2) on the back wall, connected to a drainage duct (not shown).

[0075] Said base box (44) of the vandal-proof housing (43) is embedded and fixed with fixing means to a projecting and drilled perimeter flange (53) of a metal box (54) embedded or fixed in a reinforced concrete base (55), where a portion of said water inlet duct (1) from a water supply source is housed, the drainage duct connected to said drainage grate (52) and ducts (56) connected to said drainage duct (36, 39) of the high and low pressure drainage systems; as well as water outlet ducts (57, see figure 3) where the ends of the water discharge outlet duct (18) are connected to the water supply distribution network on the farmland;further comprising said reinforced concrete base (55) at least two reinforced concrete piles (58) configured to fit and anchor in the ground the device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first use or recovered water for irrigation, precision fertigation in crops, soil regeneration and / or subsurface recharge of aquifers.;

[0076] The invention has been sufficiently described to allow a person of average skill to reproduce it and obtain the results mentioned herein. However, any person skilled in the art to which this invention pertains may be able to make modifications not described herein. Nevertheless, if the application of these modifications to a particular structure or to the manufacturing process thereof requires the subject matter claimed in the following claims, such structures shall be considered within the scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS Having sufficiently described the invention, the following claims are claimed as property. 1.- A device for the instantaneous and volumetric handling and control of first-use water or recovered water and its nutrients for crop irrigation and regeneration, characterized by comprising a water inlet duct from a water supply source, in which a hydraulic train is connected with a first opening and closing valve for pressurizing the system, connected to said inlet duct and to the lower end of a flow meter body that is protected in a cabinet of an electronic communication and control module that controls the automated operation of the device;further comprising after the flow meter a second flow control valve, after which is connected at least one filter for retaining solids entering the system and a distribution section with a plurality of water distribution pipes, wherein each of the plurality of water distribution pipes comprises an automated three-way solenoid pressure regulating valve, controlled by said real-time electronic communication and control module and each being in turn connected to a water discharge outlet pipe to a water supply distribution network in the farmland; a; liquid fertilizer injection kit defined by a liquid fertilizer carry water supply duct, the end of which is connected by means of connection in the rear area of ​​the flow meter body, configured to provide a carry water flow and a pressure differential and which is connected by means of connection to a “T” type connector, where a vent for purging air from the system and an automated flow control valve controlled by said electronic communication and control module are connected, which in turn is connected to a section of distribution duct comprising a manually operated shut-off valve, after which a Venturi tube is connected defining a connecting spigot of a liquid fertilizer supply duct from a liquid fertilizer source and a connecting end that connects to the main line of the hydraulic train after said second flow control valve;further comprising a low and high pressure drainage system; a control panel comprising a plurality of pressure gauges, automated three-way pressure regulating valves with solenoid and pressure regulating pilots; and a vandal-proof protective housing configured to safeguard the device.

2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that said electronic communication and control module cabinet comprises a housing configured to accommodate the electronic board and the real-time electronic communication and control systems, the supply systems of operating electrical power, exposed connectors to receive the control cables of the control solenoids of the plurality of automated three-way solenoid pressure regulating valves and at least one exposed wireless communication antenna; further comprising at the rear fastening means for fixing to the body of the flow meter and a central cavity in the front wall of said housing, configured for the passage and exposure of the faceplate of said flow means.

3. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that said flow meter body comprises a tubular section that defines a lower end where said first opening and closing valve for pressurizing the system is connected and an upper end where another tubular section or elbow of the hydraulic train is connected; further comprising a cylindrical radial projection where the flow meter is housed, which has a propeller that rotates due to the passage of water and whose measuring face passes through the cabinet of the electronic communication and control module, being exposed on the front wall of said housing of the electronic communication and control module; further comprising a pair of lateral fins with holes configured to receive the fixing means for fixing the rear part of said cabinet of the electronic communication and control module.

4. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that said liquid fertilizer injection kit It comprises, between the automated water flow control valve and the manually operated shut-off valve, a branch with a manual water intake valve. 5.- The device according to claim 1, characterized in that said hermetic connection means between the different pipe sections, flow control valves, flow meter, filter, three-way solenoid automated pressure regulating valves, automated flow control valve, comprises the association of grooved flexible nipple and coupling sections.

6. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that said at least one solids retention filter is a filter ring filter comprising a detachable screw cap for cleaning the filter rings, and comprising at the inlet and outlet thereof two probes detecting water inlet and outlet pressure, each connected to a pressure gauge mounted on said control panel. 7.- The device according to claim 1, characterized in that said body of said at least one filter externally comprises connection means for receiving fixing means of said control board.

8. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that said automated three-way solenoid pressure regulating valves comprise upstream high-pressure hose interconnection and downstream low-pressure hose interconnection, connected to pressure regulating pilots and connected to pressure gauges mounted on said control panel.

9. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that said low pressure drainage system comprises a drainage duct to which the drainage hoses of the lines of the automated three-way solenoid pressure regulating valves, the pilot hoses, and a duct coming from the air expulsion valve are connected.

10. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that said high-pressure drainage system comprises a drainage duct where a solenoid valve for opening and closing controlled by said electronic communication and control module is connected and a cleaning and drainage duct connected to the lower area of ​​said at least one solids filter.

11. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that said vandal-proof protective housing comprises a base box with a hinged lid attached by vandal-proof hinges; wherein said base box defines a bottom, a front wall, a rear wall and two side walls, where the front wall is lower than the rear wall and the side walls have a right-angled shape defining a descending edge from the ends of the rear wall to the ends of the front wall; where said hinged lid has the same shape as the base box but arranged symmetrically defining a rectangular, quadrangular or cubic prismatic body and comprising a three-point vandal-proof locking means that is arranged in the front area of ​​the casing. 12.- The device according to claim 1, characterized in that said vandal-proof protective casing comprises externally solar cells for powering the operating electrical power supply systems. 13.- The device according to claim 11, characterized in that said base box of the vandal-proof housing comprises a drainage grid in the back wall, connected to a drainage duct.

14. The device according to claim 11, characterized in that said base box of the vandal-proof housing is embedded and fixed by fastening means to a projecting, drilled, perimeter flange of a metal box embedded in or fixed to a reinforced concrete base, where a portion of said water inlet duct is housed from a water supply source, drainage ducts connected to said drainage grate and ducts connected to said drainage duct of the high and low pressure drainage systems, as well as water outlet ducts where the ends of the water discharge outlet duct are connected to the water supply distribution network on the farmland; said reinforced concrete base further comprising at least two reinforced concrete piles.

Citation Information

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