Two-Wire Irrigation Decoder Network for Long-Range Valve Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional irrigation systems face challenges with complex wiring and signal attenuation, limiting the size and cost-effectiveness of large irrigation systems due to individual wiring of valves to the irrigation controller.
Innovation Solution
A two-wire communication network using data-encoded power waveforms to power and control solenoid-actuated valves, utilizing a bridge circuit with solid-state relays to transmit AC power signals in-phase or phase-shifted, enabling communication and control of multiple valves without individual wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If individual wires are run between each valve and the irrigation controller, then each valve can be controlled individually, but the complexity and cost of wiring increases significantly for large systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (power delivery and data communication) into a single two-wire network. The controller communicates with multiple decoders along the wire, and power is delivered through the same wires, eliminating the need for separate individual wiring to each valve while maintaining individual control capability through addressable decoders
Solution Approach 2:
The two-wire network serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides power to remote decoders, carries bidirectional communication signals for control and status monitoring, and enables individual valve actuation. This multi-functional approach replaces the traditional separate wiring requirements for each valve
2Length of stationary object
If long individual wires are used to connect distant valves to the controller, then the system can cover larger areas, but signal attenuation prevents valve actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary power conversion system where the controller outputs a high-voltage square wave signal that is transformed into a high-current low-voltage signal at the remote decoder location. This intermediary transformation allows the signal to maintain sufficient strength over long distances to reliably actuate valves
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the electrical parameters of the signal during transmission. The controller generates a high-voltage (e.g., 24V) square wave signal that is transmitted over the two-wire network, then transformed at the decoder into a low-voltage (e.g., 5V) high-current signal suitable for solenoid actuation, allowing reliable operation over long wire lengths
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 efficient and cost-effective control of multiple irrigation valves over a two-wire network, reducing installation complexity and signal loss, allowing for larger and more complex irrigation systems.
Implementation Method 1
a transformer configured to receive an input power signal and provide AC power signal, wherein the AC power signal is approximately sinusoidal
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
a plurality of solenoid-actuated valves connected to corresponding decoders along a two-wire communication network
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.