Hydroelectric Irrigation Power Kit for Autonomous Field Devices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric power supply kits for irrigation systems are not energetically autonomous, requiring batteries to be recharged or replaced by disconnecting and extracting electrical devices from the system, and they are inefficient in developing voltage to operate devices autonomously.
Innovation Solution
An electric power supply kit that integrates a hydroelectric turbine with a rotating element partially in fluid communication with the irrigation conduit, generating alternating current voltage, which is then regulated to power rechargeable batteries for electrical devices, including solenoid valves, sensors, and communication antennas, allowing for autonomous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If batteries or charging cells are used to power electrical devices in the irrigation system, then the system can operate with electrical devices, but the system is not energetically autonomous and requires disconnection and extraction of devices for recharging or replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power generation function directly into the irrigation fluid flow system by integrating a hydroelectric turbine within the conduit. This combination eliminates the need for separate battery systems and creates an energetically autonomous system where the irrigation fluid itself powers the electrical devices through the turbine-generator assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own operational resource (irrigation fluid flow) to generate the electricity needed to power its electrical devices. The turbine is driven by the water flow that is already moving through the conduit for irrigation purposes, converting the kinetic energy of the irrigation fluid into electrical energy without requiring external power sources or battery replacements.
2Power
If conventional batteries are used, then electrical devices can be powered, but the power supply is insufficient to develop adequate voltage for autonomous operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs hydraulic principles by utilizing the kinetic energy of the moving irrigation fluid to drive the hydroelectric turbine. The fluid flow directly rotates the turbine blades, which are positioned within the conduit, converting hydraulic energy into mechanical rotation and subsequently into electrical energy through electromagnetic induction in the generator.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the energy parameters of the irrigation fluid by extracting kinetic energy to drive the turbine. The fluid's flow characteristics and energy content are modified as it passes through the turbine, converting a portion of its kinetic energy into electrical power while maintaining sufficient flow to continue the irrigation function.
3Reliability
If batteries are extracted and replaced, then power supply can be maintained, but frequent intervention increases time loss and operational disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The hydroelectric turbine provides continuous power generation as long as irrigation fluid flows through the conduit. The system eliminates the intermittent nature of battery replacement by creating a continuous energy conversion process that operates throughout the irrigation cycle, ensuring uninterrupted power supply to electrical devices without maintenance interventions.
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 the irrigation system to operate autonomously with a self-sustaining power source, improving efficiency and reducing the need for frequent battery replacement or recharging, while monitoring and regulating water flow and consumption.
Implementation Method 1
an electric power supply kit (10) comprising a hydroelectric turbine (20) in fluid communication with said irrigation fluid
Implementation Method 2
generating an alternating electric current voltage
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Electric power supply kit (10) for an irrigation system (100) for land, said irrigation system (100) comprising at least one conduit (110, 111) adapted for the passage of an irrigation fluid and at least one electrical device (120) comprising at least one rechargeable power supply battery (130), said electric power supply kit (10) comprising at least one hydroelectric turbine (20) in fluid communication with said irrigation fluid adapted to generate an alternating electric current voltage as said irrigation fluid passes into said at least one conduit (110, 111), at least one voltage regulator (30) adapted to be powered with said alternating electric current, adapted to stabilize said alternating electric current voltage in a direct electric current voltage, and adapted to supply said at least one power supply battery (130) of said at least one electrical device (120) with said direct electric current voltage.