Two-Wire Irrigation Signal Modulation for Reliable Solenoid Decoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irrigation control systems using a two-wire path for power and data transmission face inefficiencies in data modulation and decoding, particularly in ensuring proper solenoid operation and detecting ground short conditions, due to limitations in current measurement and signal modulation techniques.
Innovation Solution
The system employs an encoder with an AC to DC converter and an AC signal generator that modulates the output AC signal with data using frequency or amplitude modulation, and a decoder unit with a current measure circuit to determine solenoid operation and detect ground shorts, ensuring accurate data decoding and control signal delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If AC power signal is modulated by selectively clipping the positive half signal, then data can be transmitted over the two-wire path, but the reliability of solenoid operation and ground short detection is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal processing functions into distinct components: the encoder separately generates the modulated power signal and measures current, while the decoder separately decodes data and detects ground shorts. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall reliability while maintaining data transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the current measure circuit that continuously monitors current flow and provides information to the decoder. This feedback mechanism enables real-time detection of ground short conditions and verification of solenoid operation, significantly improving system reliability while maintaining data transmission over the modulated signal.
2Device complexity
If a two-wire path is used for power and data transmission, then system complexity is reduced, but measurement precision for current and signal decoding is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the two-wire path multi-functional by using it simultaneously for power transmission, data communication, and current sensing. The same physical wires carry the modulated power signal while also serving as the sensing path for current measurement, eliminating the need for separate measurement wires and maintaining low complexity while achieving precise measurement through intelligent signal processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with electronic signal processing. Instead of using separate mechanical current sensors or additional wiring harnesses, the system uses electronic modulation and demodulation of the power signal itself to extract precise current and data information, achieving high measurement precision with minimal physical complexity.
3Measurement precision
If frequency or amplitude modulation is used on the output AC signal, then data transmission accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional modulation components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power amplification and data modulation functions into a single integrated encoder circuit. The H-bridge circuit simultaneously performs power switching and frequency/amplitude modulation to encode data, while the decoder combines power reception and data demodulation in a single unit. This merging reduces overall system complexity despite using sophisticated modulation techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The modulated AC signal serves dual purposes: it provides both the power needed to operate the decoder circuitry and the data carrier for information transmission. The system uses its own power signal as the data carrier through modulation, eliminating the need for separate power and data channels and reducing the complexity that would otherwise be required to support high-accuracy data transmission.
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 enhances the reliability of irrigation control by ensuring accurate data transmission and solenoid operation, while preventing ground short conditions, thereby improving the overall efficiency and effectiveness of irrigation system management.
Implementation Method 1
an AC to DC converter configured to convert an input AC signal into a DC voltage
Implementation Method 2
an AC signal generator configured to generate an output AC signal modulated with data... frequency or amplitude modulation
Implementation Method 3
an AC signal generator configured to generate an output AC signal modulated with data... frequency or amplitude modulation
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments, apparatuses and methods are provided herein useful to providing power and data to an irrigation device. In some embodiments, a decoder unit for an irrigation system that receives power and data from an irrigation control unit over a multi-wire path comprises an input interface configured to couple to the multi-wire path of a decoder-based irrigation control system and to receive an output AC signal modulated with data and transmitted by an encoder of the irrigation control unit over the multi-wire path; a switch coupled to the input interface; a decoder circuit connected to the input interface. In some embodiment, the decoder circuit comprises a control circuit configured to decode the data from the received output AC signal; determine that the irrigation device is to be activated; and output a control signal to the switch.