Modular Irrigation Controller With Interchangeable Terminal Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional irrigation controllers lack flexibility, requiring additional footprint space for terminal expansion, lack compatibility with decoder systems, and have complex user interfaces, making them expensive and difficult for users to manage and troubleshoot.
Innovation Solution
A modular controller with interchangeable modules, a smart card for additional functionality, and a dual user interface for home and professional users, allowing terminal switching between conventional and decoder systems, and data storage on removable devices for remote access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional irrigation controllers use a fixed number of terminals, then the controller structure is simple, but the flexibility to expand irrigation stations is limited and requires additional footprint space
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is divided into a base unit and removable module units. Each module contains a specific number of terminals (e.g., 4-terminal modules) that can be attached to or removed from the base controller. This segmentation allows users to start with a compact base unit and expand by adding modules as needed, rather than requiring a large fixed-size controller from the beginning.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller configuration is made dynamic through removable and reconfigurable modules. Users can add, remove, or rearrange modules based on their current irrigation needs. The controller adapts its terminal count and physical configuration over time, transitioning from a static fixed-terminal design to a dynamic modular architecture that grows with the system requirements.
2Quantity of substance
If modular controllers include modules with additional terminals, then the number of irrigation stations can be increased, but the module footprint space increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of providing one large module with many terminals, the system segments terminals into multiple smaller modules (e.g., several 4-terminal modules). These compact modules can be stacked or arranged in a space-efficient manner on the controller, reducing the footprint compared to a single large-module design while providing the same total number of terminals.
3Device complexity
If prior art modular controllers require specific position order for module insertion, then the controller structure is simplified, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The module interface is designed with universal compatibility features that allow modules to be inserted into controller slots in any position order. The controller's base unit contains multiple identical slots that can accept any type of module, and the system automatically recognizes and configures the modules regardless of their insertion sequence. This universal interface eliminates the need for users to remember specific position requirements while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional controllers do not retain programming information after module removal, then the controller structure is simpler, but the adaptability for future expansions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The controller implements a central memory system in the base unit that stores programming information independently of any specific module. When modules are removed or reconfigured, the programming data is automatically retained in the base controller's memory. The system copies or associates the stored programming information with the appropriate module slots, allowing users to reinsert modules later and have their programming automatically restored without requiring complex module-embedded storage in each module.
5Adaptability or versatility
If controllers provide comprehensive features for advanced users, then the functionality is improved, but the user interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The user interface is designed with local quality by providing different levels of complexity for different user needs. The controller offers a simplified interface for basic operations that is easy for all users to understand, while simultaneously providing access to advanced features and comprehensive control options for those who need them. This layered interface approach allows the same device to serve both casual users and professionals without forcing unnecessary complexity on everyone.
Data Source
AI summary
A controller has two irrigation station module connection areas within it and can either accept two irrigation station modules at the same time or one larger module that spans both connection areas. The larger module, however, includes more irrigation station terminals than both of the smaller irrigation station modules combined. Therefore, a greater number of irrigation stations can be connected to the controller when the larger module is substituted for the two smaller modules.