Map-Integrated Irrigation Layout for Zone and Station Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irrigation systems lack user-friendly and efficient methods for visualizing and manipulating irrigation zones, stations, and watering units, making it difficult for landscape managers and property owners to effectively manage and optimize water usage.
Innovation Solution
A system that overlays an irrigation system on a map, such as Google Maps, allowing users to interact with irrigation zones, stations, and watering units using a computing device, enabling real-time visualization and manipulation through touch-based interfaces and predetermined commands, with integration of sensors for data-driven adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional irrigation system interfaces are used, then system control functionality is maintained, but user accessibility and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a map as an intermediary visual interface between the user and the irrigation system controls. The map overlay serves as a mediator that simplifies system interaction by providing intuitive spatial representation of irrigation zones, making the system more accessible without adding physical complexity to the irrigation infrastructure itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or physical irrigation control interfaces with a digital map-based interface. By substituting physical controls with visual map overlays displayed on electronic devices, the system improves ease of operation while reducing the complexity of physical interface components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If detailed irrigation system controls are provided, then system functionality is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the irrigation system into distinct zones that are visually represented on the map overlay. Each zone can be independently controlled and manipulated, allowing detailed system functionality to be broken down into manageable, user-friendly segments that correspond to geographic areas on the map.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a visual spatial dimension to irrigation system control by overlaying system data on a map interface. This dimensional transformation converts abstract control parameters into visually intuitive geographic representations, making complex system functionality easier to understand and operate.
3Ease of operation
If manual manipulation of irrigation zones is allowed, then user control is improved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables users to directly manipulate irrigation zones through intuitive interactions with the map overlay. Users can drag, drop, and reposition zones independently without requiring system administrator intervention or complex configuration procedures, allowing self-service control that reduces time consumption while maintaining user autonomy.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for irrigation, and managing irrigation of, a property or landscape. The system may include an irrigation management server (“IMS”) with the information for an irrigation system. The system may access the irrigation system that has been input into the IMS as well as access a third party map that may display the irrigation system over the map. The system may provide for a user's GPS location to be accessed through and identify the location of the user with respect to the map and irrigation overlay. The system display may provide information regarding the landscape to a user. The system may allow for manipulation of the irrigation system while overlaid on the map by the creation and manipulation of zones within the irrigation system as well as the creation and manipulation of other commands, including watering times and watering duration.