Modular Irrigation Controller with Segmented Terminal Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular irrigation controllers lack flexibility in accommodating varying numbers of irrigation terminals within a standard footprint, require specific module insertion order, and incur additional costs due to separate indoor and outdoor models, as well as complex sensor integration and flow monitoring requirements.
Innovation Solution
A modular irrigation controller with a standard footprint size that supports modules with varying irrigation station terminals, includes surge protection, wireless communication, immediate module display, and a modular transformer for indoor/outdoor conversion, allowing flexible module insertion and retaining programming data, along with integrated sensor terminals and flow monitoring capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If modules with more irrigation terminals are used to increase system capacity, then the number of controlled sprinklers increases, but the controller footprint space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is divided into a base unit and removable modules. Each module contains a specific number of terminal blocks for connecting solenoid valves. Users can attach only the modules they need (e.g., one 4-terminal module for 4 valves, or two 4-terminal modules for 8 valves), allowing the controller footprint to match the actual system size rather than requiring space for maximum potential capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller architecture transitions from a fixed two-dimensional footprint to a three-dimensional modular structure. The base controller unit remains compact, while additional terminal capacity is added vertically through stackable modules that attach to the base, effectively utilizing the vertical dimension to increase capacity without expanding the horizontal footprint.
2Ease of manufacture
If fixed-number terminal controllers are used to simplify design, then manufacturing is easier, but flexibility to accommodate varying system sizes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is divided into a base unit and removable modules. Each module contains a specific number of terminal blocks for connecting solenoid valves. Users can attach only the modules they need (e.g., one 4-terminal module for 4 valves, or two 4-terminal modules for 8 valves), allowing the controller footprint to match the actual system size rather than requiring space for maximum potential capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The base controller unit is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different combinations of modules. The same base unit can support configurations ranging from 4 to 16 terminals by simply adding or removing modules, making it adaptable to various system sizes without requiring different controller models.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple separate controllers are used to control additional valves, then each controller can be optimized for its function, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple controller functions are merged into a single base unit. The base controller integrates the microprocessor, display, programming interface, and communication capabilities, while multiple terminal modules can be attached to expand valve control capacity. This consolidation allows one controller to perform the work of multiple separate controllers, reducing overall system complexity.
4Reliability
If outdoor-rated controllers are used to enable outdoor installation, then weather resistance is improved, but cost and design complexity increase compared to indoor models
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different combinations of modules. The same base unit can support configurations ranging from 4 to 16 terminals by simply adding or removing modules, making it adaptable to various system sizes without requiring different controller models.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a modular controller that connects to irrigation modules with varying station terminals and a standard footprint size. Additionally, the modular controller includes surge protection options, wireless communication with PDA's and other external devices, no required position for each controller module to be connected, immediate display of station modules on the LCD display, retention of a water program if module is removed, communications module for flow monitoring, a modular transformer, rain sensor receiver within the housing, an improved 9-volt batter holder, and other aspects described in the present application.