In-Line Sprinkler Controller for Remote Valve Override
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sprinkler system controls are difficult to operate and monitor, requiring personal presence at the control panel and failing to consider factors beyond past or current rainfall for zone configuration rules, leading to inefficiencies and increased water consumption.
Innovation Solution
An in-line controller positioned between the sprinkler system control panel and valves, capable of receiving instructions from home automation and security systems, remote devices, and manually, allowing independent operation and overriding control panel signals to manage sprinkler valves, enabling remote control and additional programmability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an in-line controller is introduced between the control panel and valves to enable remote control, then ease of operation and control flexibility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
An in-line controller is introduced as an intermediary device positioned between the control panel and sprinkler valves. This intermediary receives control signals from the control panel, home automation systems, or remote devices, and independently actuates the sprinkler valves based on received instructions, enabling remote operation without requiring direct interaction with the control panel.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the in-line controller operates valves independent of control panel instructions, then control flexibility and automation are improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring system status increases
Solution Approach 1:
The in-line controller incorporates feedback functionality by communicating valve operation status information back to home automation and security systems. This allows the system status to be monitored and tracked even when the controller operates independently of the control panel, maintaining system visibility and enabling automated responses based on sprinkler operation status.
3Loss of energy
If the in-line controller overrides control panel signals to operate valves, then water consumption efficiency is improved through better control, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The in-line controller operates autonomously by receiving operation instructions from various sources (control panel, home automation systems, remote devices) and independently actuating the sprinkler valves without requiring continuous intervention or complex coordination with the control panel. This self-service capability enables efficient water consumption control through programmable schedules and remote management.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices are described for controlling a sprinkler system, including an apparatus for sprinkler system control that includes a processor, a memory in electronic communication with the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions are executable by the processor to receive operation instructions for the sprinkler system from a source that is separate from a control panel of the sprinkler system, and operate valves of the sprinkler system independent of instructions from the control panel.