Irrigation Pump Control via Float Magnet and Reed Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irrigation systems require continuous human intervention to monitor and manage irrigation liquid levels, lacking automatic start/stop functionality and efficient water distribution methods, especially for plants/flowers.
Innovation Solution
An automatic irrigation system with a container, floater-magnet assembly, and electromechanical reed-type device that automatically controls the irrigation pump based on liquid levels, eliminating the need for a timer and incorporating a spray irrigation mechanism for enhanced oxygenation and uniformity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a timer-based irrigation system is used, then irrigation cycles can be scheduled, but the system requires continuous human intervention to set and monitor timing parameters
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a float indicator that automatically rises and falls with water level changes to trigger the pump mechanism, eliminating the need for external timing control or human intervention. The float mechanism self-regulates irrigation based on actual water levels in the container
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electronic timer systems with a simple mechanical float indicator and magnet-actuated pump mechanism. This mechanical substitution achieves automatic control while significantly reducing device complexity and eliminating the need for electronic components
2Ease of manufacture
If dropwise irrigation is used, then the system structure is simple, but water distribution uniformity and oxygenation are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs hydraulic pressure generated by the pump to force irrigation water through multiple spray nozzles positioned at different heights and angles. This hydraulic approach creates fine water mist that distributes uniformly across the plant substrate while maintaining simple mechanical components
Solution Approach 2:
The irrigation system divides water delivery into multiple spray outlets positioned at different locations within the container. This segmentation of the water delivery function creates multiple contact points for water distribution, improving uniformity compared to single-point dropwise irrigation
3Reliability
If continuous water recall systems are used, then irrigation is always available, but water waste occurs and the system cannot respond to actual plant needs
Solution Approach 1:
The float indicator provides continuous feedback about the water level in the container. When water level drops, the float descends and triggers the pump to refill. When water level is sufficient, the float rises and stops the pump. This feedback mechanism ensures irrigation occurs only when needed, preventing water waste while maintaining reliable water availability
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs irrigation in periodic cycles triggered by water level thresholds rather than continuous operation. The pump activates only when the float indicates low water level and stops when the threshold is reached, creating efficient periodic irrigation cycles that match actual plant water needs
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
Enables autonomous irrigation with reduced operator intervention, efficient water use, and improved oxygenation and distribution, suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications with adjustable settings for different plant needs.
Implementation Method 1
adapted to be actuated by the at least one magnet 2 through a contact action of the reed blades driven by a magnetic field of the magnet 2
Implementation Method 2
the pump 7 being adapted to pump irrigation liquid from the tank 6 to the container 4
Implementation Method 3
incorporating a spray irrigation mechanism for enhanced oxygenation and uniformity
Data Source
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AI summary
An irrigation system with automatic irrigation liquid spraying device is described, comprising: a container (4), particularly for plants or flowers, the container being equipped with a perforated bottom; a bottom support (5) on which the perforated bottom of the container (4) is placed; at least one floater (3) equipped with at least one magnet (2) and placed in the support (5); at least one electromechanical reed-type device (1) operatively connected to the support (5) and adapted to be actuated by the at least one magnet (2) through a contact action of the reed blades driven by a magnetic field of the magnet (2); a tank (6) containing irrigation liquid; at least one pump (7) immersed in the tank (6), operatively connected to the container (4) on a side and to the electromechanical reed-type device (1) on another side.