Two-Wire Irrigation Decoder Control for Long-Distance Valves
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional irrigation systems face challenges with complexity and cost due to the need for individual wiring of valves to controllers, and signal attenuation over long distances limits the size of irrigation systems.
Innovation Solution
An irrigation controller that uses a two-wire communication network to power and control solenoid-actuated valves through data-encoded power waveforms, utilizing a processor and bridge circuit with solid-state relays to transmit AC power signals in-phase or phase-shifted, enabling remote control and monitoring via a cloud-based system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individual wires are run between each valve and the irrigation controller, then reliable valve actuation is achieved, but system complexity and installation cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power transmission and data communication into a single two-wire network. The irrigation controller transmits both power and control signals through the same pair of wires that connect to each valve, eliminating the need for separate individual wiring for each valve while maintaining reliable actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The two-wire communication network serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides power to remote decoders, transmits control signals to multiple valves, and enables bidirectional communication. This multi-functional approach replaces the traditional one-function-per-wire paradigm.
2Ease of operation
If individual wires are run to each valve, then complete system control is achieved, but installation cost becomes prohibitive for large systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges power delivery and control signaling into a single two-wire infrastructure. Each decoder on the network can be individually addressed and controlled through these shared wires, maintaining complete system control while dramatically reducing installation costs by requiring only one pair of wires per decoder rather than individual wiring for each valve.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces decoders as intermediary devices between the irrigation controller and the valves. These decoders are connected to the two-wire network and receive control signals, then actuate the corresponding valves. This intermediary approach enables centralized control through a simple two-wire system.
3Length of stationary object
If long wire lengths are used to extend system reach, then larger irrigation systems are possible, but signal attenuation prevents valve actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from voltage-based signaling to frequency-based communication. By modulating the carrier signal at different frequencies to encode control data, the system overcomes voltage attenuation over long distances. Frequency modulation is less susceptible to signal degradation, enabling reliable operation over extended wire lengths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces decoders as intermediary devices positioned near the valves but connected to the two-wire network. These decoders actively receive and amplify signals from the controller, compensating for attenuation over long distances. The decoders act as signal regeneration points that maintain signal integrity throughout the extended network.
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 solution reduces installation costs and extends the reach of irrigation systems by allowing efficient control of multiple valves over long distances without the need for individual wiring, enabling remote management and improved system scalability.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer configured to receive an input power signal and provide AC power signal
Implementation Method 2
at least one of others of the plurality of solid-state relays is enabled when the control signal is in the second state to shift a phase of the AC power signal by approximately 180 degrees
Implementation Method 3
control a plurality of solenoid-actuated valves
Data Source
AI summary
An irrigation system comprises an irrigation controller that receives user input and provides a power signal and command and message data to an encoder. The encoder encodes the command and message data onto the power signal to provide a data encoded power waveform that is sent over a two-wire path. The irrigation system further comprises one or more decoders in communication with the two-wire path to receive the data encoded power waveform and one or more irrigation valves in communication with the one or more decoders. The data encoded power waveform provides power to the decoders and the decoders decode the command and message data from the data encoded power waveform to control the irrigation valves according to the user input.