Irrigation Shutdown Timing Algorithm Based on Tower Position
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Solution Overview
Problem
Agricultural irrigation systems face challenges in efficiently shutting down operations when a problem occurs, such as tower faults or communication disruptions, leading to premature system shutdown and potential loss of irrigation.
Innovation Solution
The central processor of the irrigation system applies intelligence to the shutdown process by monitoring operations, determining the need for a shutdown, and executing an algorithm to determine the optimal timing for shutting down the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a quick shutdown (2-3 seconds) is implemented after detecting a tower fault or communication loss, then system safety is improved, but irrigation productivity deteriorates due to premature shutdown
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by calculating and preparing shutdown timing based on tower position and system speed before actually shutting down. The central processor determines how much irrigation remains to be completed based on the faulty tower's location and projects future tower positions, allowing the system to operate longer when safe and shutdown promptly when necessary.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutdown timing is made dynamic rather than fixed. The system continuously monitors tower positions, calculates remaining irrigation based on current speed and position, and adjusts the shutdown decision in real-time. This allows the system to adapt the shutdown timing to current operating conditions, maximizing productivity while maintaining safety.
2Reliability
If the system waits for alternative communication methods (wireless) to configure after wired communication fails, then communication reliability improves, but shutdown timing deteriorates due to extended wait time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary assessment of the communication failure and calculates whether the remaining irrigation justifies waiting for alternative communication methods to configure. The central processor evaluates the situation in advance and makes an informed decision about whether to extend operation or initiate shutdown.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies partial action by allowing continued operation for a calculated period even after communication failure, rather than immediate shutdown. The central processor determines a partial extension of operation time based on the proximity to field completion, allowing some additional irrigation when the benefit outweighs the risk.
3Productivity
If towers outward from a faulty tower continue operating until reaching a certain angle, then irrigation efficiency improves, but system complexity increases due to coordinated control requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the irrigation system into independent controllable sections based on tower positions relative to faults. The central processor identifies which towers can safely continue operating outward from a faulty tower and which must shutdown, creating segmented operation zones that maximize productivity while maintaining safety.
Data Source
AI summary
A central processor for controlling a shut down of operations of an irrigation system after a problem is detected comprises a processing element configured to: monitor an operation of the irrigation system; determine a problem has occurred requiring a shut down of the operation of the irrigation system; and apply an algorithm to determine a timing of when to shut down the operation of the irrigation system.