Decoder Irrigation Controller Programming via Optical Address Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current decoder-based irrigation controllers require manual programming before in-field installation, necessitating pre-designation of decoder associations with stations, which is inefficient and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
A decoder-based irrigation controller system that uses a microcontroller with a connector for an optical or electromagnetic reader to interpret machine-readable patterns, allowing for dynamic association and recording of decoder addresses on a programming chart, enabling automatic registration of decoder-station associations without prior manual entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If manual programming is used to record decoder associations before installation, then the controller can be programmed in advance, but the process is time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical data entry with an automated optical scanning system. A barcode reader optically scans decoder barcodes and automatically transmits the data to the controller, eliminating the need for manual keyboard entry and significantly reducing both time and errors in the programming process
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service programming where the decoder units themselves provide their identification information through barcodes. The barcodes contain encoded decoder addresses that are automatically read and processed by the controller, allowing the system to program itself without extensive manual intervention
2Ease of operation
If decoder associations are pre-designated before field installation, then the controller is ready for operation, but installation flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic programming capability where the controller can accept and process decoder information at any stage during installation. The system dynamically adapts to the installation sequence, allowing decoders to be programmed as they are physically connected to the system, rather than requiring static pre-programming of all associations beforehand
3Device complexity
If manual data entry is required for each decoder address, then precise control is achieved, but the complexity of the programming process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses barcode copies of decoder address information that can be rapidly scanned and transferred to the controller. Instead of manually typing each address, the system reads pre-encoded barcode representations of the decoder addresses, maintaining precision while dramatically simplifying the programming process
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method allows for efficient and error-free programming of decoder-based irrigation controllers, enabling installation flexibility and reducing the need for manual data entry, thus streamlining the process and improving accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
the reader comprises an optical reader configured to read an optically readable pattern
Data Source
AI summary
A decoder-based irrigation controller comprising a controller housing; a first microcontroller within the controller housing; a decoder interface coupled to the first microcontroller; and a handheld user device, wherein the handheld user device comprises an optical imaging device configured to read an optically readable pattern from each of the plurality of decoder units, wherein the handheld user device is configured to cause data read from the optically readable pattern of the plurality of decoder units to be transferred to the first microcontroller, and wherein the data read comprises an address of each of the plurality of decoder units.