Magnetic Dripper Valve for Localized Irrigation Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current agricultural irrigation systems lack precise control over water and nutrient supply at specific locations along irrigation lines, as existing dripper technologies can only control flow rates for the entire length of the line, not individual positions.
Innovation Solution
A controllable dripper unit with a passive, magnetically responsive valve that can be switched between open and closed positions using an external magnetic field, allowing for remote control of irrigation levels without requiring power to maintain its position, and an actuation unit to selectively apply magnetic fields for valve operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional dripper technology is used, then the irrigation system is simple and proven reliable, but precise control over flow rates at specific locations along the irrigation line is not achievable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical valve actuation systems with a magnetic field-based actuation mechanism. The valve uses a magnetic actuator that responds to external magnetic fields to control the flow rate, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages, springs, or manual adjustment mechanisms while achieving precise localized flow control at each dripper position
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnetic field as an intermediary between the control system and the valve mechanism. The magnetic field serves as a non-contact mediator that transmits control signals to the valve's magnetic actuator, enabling precise flow rate control without direct mechanical connection or complex transmission mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional drippers are installed to provide high irrigation where needed, then localized irrigation needs are met, but the flow control is limited to the entire length of the irrigation line with limited control at each specific position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the irrigation control into independent segments by equipping individual drippers or valve units with independent magnetic actuators. Each unit can be controlled separately by applying magnetic fields at specific locations along the irrigation line, enabling precise localized flow control without affecting other positions and allowing flexible adaptation to varying plant water needs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality control by enabling each valve unit to respond independently to local magnetic field signals. This allows different flow rates to be applied at different locations along the same irrigation line based on specific plant needs, with each position having its own controllable characteristics rather than uniform control across the entire line
3Extent of automation
If controllable valves are equipped with magnetic actuators, then remote control over irrigation levels is enabled, but the valves require external magnetic field application for switching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical actuation systems with magnetic field-based actuation. The valves use magnetic actuators that can be remotely controlled by applying external magnetic fields, eliminating the need for mechanical linkages, electrical wiring, or complex control mechanisms at each valve location while achieving automated remote control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses magnetic fields as an intermediary for remote control transmission. The magnetic field serves as a non-contact mediator that can transmit control signals over distance to the valve's magnetic actuator, enabling automated remote operation without direct mechanical connection or complex electrical infrastructure
4Use of energy by moving object
If the valve mechanism is designed to be stable at each state without external energy, then power supply is not required to maintain position, but external magnetic field is needed to switch between states
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional approach by using external magnetic fields not for continuous power supply but specifically for state switching. The valve maintains its position passively without energy consumption, and external magnetic fields are applied only transiently to switch between states, converting a continuous energy requirement into a transient control signal requirement
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 precise, localized control of irrigation levels at selected positions along an irrigation line, optimizing water and nutrient distribution based on specific plant needs without altering the existing irrigation system infrastructure.
Implementation Method 1
Position or status of the controllable valve may be switched by applying external field on the valve, causing it to switch between open and closed positions. For example, the controllable valve unit may be configured to switch between open and closed positions in response to external magnetic field applied thereto.
Implementation Method 2
external magnetic field applied on the valve, generates force that operates on the one or more magnets of the valve. Such magnetic force, being attracting or repelling, is selected to overcome force between the magnet and the respective ferromagnetic element, extracting the valve mechanism from the current stable position and shifting it to a further stable state position.
Implementation Method 3
the controllable valve may utilize one or more ferromagnetic elements located at selected positions to thereby hold the valve mechanism in the selected one or more states thereof. When in selected proximity, the one or more magnets induce magnetic dipoles in the respective ferromagnetic elements, causing attractive force that keeps the valve mechanism in its selected state, dictating flow rate through the valve.
Data Source
AI summary
A controllable valve unit and corresponding irrigation system are described. The controllable valve is configured for use with an irrigation dripper positioned along an irrigation line. The controllable valve unit is configured to be selectively shiftable between a first open position and a second closed position to selectively control flow of irrigation therethrough. The controllable valve unit comprises at least one magnet, enabling switching of said valve between said first open and said second closed positioned by selective application of magnetic field in its surroundings.