Modular Landscape Controller Feature Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current irrigation controllers are inflexible and costly, requiring homeowners and professionals to purchase new systems when irrigation needs change or when additional features are required, leading to unnecessary expenses and a large inventory burden for distributors.
Innovation Solution
A landscape controller with a modular design that allows users to add or upgrade features through removable feature modules, which communicate with the processor to alter operational programs and provide additional memory, enabling customization and expansion of irrigation functions without replacing the entire system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If irrigation controllers are manufactured with a wide range of features to accommodate different landscape needs, then the ability to meet diverse irrigation requirements is improved, but the cost of maintaining large inventory and the expense for customers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The irrigation controller is divided into a base unit and separate feature modules. The base controller provides core irrigation functionality, while additional features (such as weather compensation, ET control, or lighting control) are provided through detachable modules that can be added or removed as needed. This segmentation allows distributors to stock a single base model with optional modules, reducing inventory complexity while maintaining product versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The base irrigation controller is designed with universal compatibility to work with multiple types of feature modules. A single base unit can be configured for different applications by attaching appropriate modules, making the base controller universally applicable across various landscape sizes and requirements. This multi-functionality approach allows one product platform to serve multiple market segments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If homeowners purchase irrigation controllers with all possible features, then future upgrade capability is improved, but the initial cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base controller is pre-configured with module receptacles and communication interfaces that prepare the system for future module additions. The hardware architecture is preliminarily established to support modular expansion, allowing customers to start with a basic system and add features progressively as needs arise or budgets allow, rather than requiring all features upfront.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller system transitions from a static, fixed-configuration design to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. Customers can adapt the system over time by adding or removing feature modules based on changing landscape needs, technological advancements, or budget constraints. This dynamic architecture enables the system to evolve without replacing the entire controller.
3Adaptability or versatility
If irrigation controllers are designed with sophisticated features for commercial applications, then the capability to handle complex landscapes is improved, but the cost and labor intensity for residential applications increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different feature modules are designed to address specific local needs within the irrigation system. Rather than requiring all controllers to have all features, the appropriate level of sophistication is applied locally through module selection. A residential controller uses only basic irrigation control, while a commercial controller adds weather compensation or remote monitoring modules as needed, optimizing both capability and simplicity for each application.
Data Source
AI summary
A landscape controller includes a housing and a control panel in the housing. The control panel includes a display and at least one manual control that enables a user to enter and/or select a watering schedule. A memory is provided for storing an operational program for carrying out the watering schedule. A processor is connected to the memory and is capable of executing the operational program. A connecting device in the control panel operatively connects at least one feature module to the processor. The controller further includes station control circuitry controlled by the processor that enables the processor to selectively energize a plurality of valves to deliver water to sprinklers in accordance with the watering schedule.