Programmable Irrigation Pump With Backup Battery Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable irrigation devices lack the flexibility to set various irrigation times and durations and often rely solely on external power supply, which can be unreliable, especially during prolonged power outages.
Innovation Solution
A portable liquid dispensing device with an electronic control unit that can be powered by either an external connection or rechargeable cells, allowing for automatic operation and programmable irrigation times, ensuring consistent water supply to plants and gardens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the device uses external power supply only, then the device structure is simple, but the reliability of operation during power outages deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device dynamically switches between external power supply and rechargeable cells based on power availability. The control unit detects power source status and automatically transitions to battery power when external power is interrupted, ensuring continuous operation without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes its power source parameter from single-source (external) to dual-source (external + batteries) configuration. This parameter change enables the system to maintain operation under varying power availability conditions, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the device provides fixed irrigation time, then the control system is simple, but the adaptability to various irrigation needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit automatically calculates and sets irrigation duration based on tank capacity and selected flow rate, without requiring manual programming. The system serves itself by deriving operational parameters from user selections (flow rate) and predefined parameters (tank volume), providing adaptability while maintaining simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic control unit performs multiple functions: selecting flow rates, calculating irrigation duration, controlling pump operation, and managing power source switching. This multi-functionality provides comprehensive adaptability for various irrigation needs while consolidating control logic to manage complexity.
3Productivity
If the pump operates continuously to empty the tank, then the irrigation coverage is maximized, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump operates periodically rather than continuously, running only for the calculated irrigation duration needed to deliver the selected water volume. The control unit stops the pump after the predetermined time, preventing unnecessary energy consumption while ensuring adequate irrigation coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit calculates the required irrigation duration based on tank capacity and selected flow rate, then controls the pump to operate for that specific duration. This feedback-based time control ensures the pump runs only as long as needed, optimizing the balance between productivity and energy consumption.
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 flexible irrigation scheduling and continuous operation even during power outages, ensuring plants receive water for an extended period without manual intervention, maintaining consistent water flow and delivery efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an electric pump (7) which can be controlled to draw liquid from tank (1) and dispense it outside at a spout (8)
Implementation Method 2
a double housing (26) which is suitable for inserting two rechargeable cells and which intervene in the absence of external power supply
Data Source
Figure 1~6
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A device for dispensing liquids, in particular irrigation water, comprises a liquid tank (1) of displaceable type with a cover (2) for closing said tank (1), an electric pump (7) inserted into the cover (2) for drawing the liquid from the tank (1) and delivering the liquid itself to irrigation pipes extending outwards, and an electronic control unit (13) for setting the liquid delivering times. The electronic control unit (13) comprises a movable selector (15) for programming the times and durations of the liquid deliveries, a start button (16) for starting the selected program, and a display (17) for viewing the state of the device as a function of the selected program. An external power source (33) is provided, with the possibility of using rechargeable cells (35), which are automatically rechargeable and which can be enabled in case of absence of external power supply.