PLC Irrigation Device Identification Using Signal Strength Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irrigation systems face challenges in accurately and efficiently identifying and addressing individual powered elements using power-line communications due to the need for manual and time-consuming identification processes, which are prone to inaccuracies, especially when components are swapped out.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilizes a controller to transmit an identification signal through a PLC BUS, record signal strength at each powered device, reduce the signal incrementally, and assign a system ID based on recorded signal levels, creating a lookup table for precise device identification and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If power-line communications are used to control powered elements, then a single set of wires can be used to both power and control each device, but each powered element must be individually identified and addressed which is time consuming and inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables powered elements to self-identify their presence on the PLC system automatically. Each device measures the signal strength of identification signals transmitted by the controller and uses this measurement to determine its own address, eliminating the need for manual identification and addressing by operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from signal strength measurements to automatically assign addresses. Devices measure the strength of identification signals and report back to the controller, which uses this feedback information to determine device locations and assign appropriate addresses automatically.
2Reliability
If manual identification of powered elements is performed, then each device can be addressed, but the process is prone to inaccuracies especially when components are swapped out
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of relying on operators to manually identify and address devices, the system enables devices to self-identify automatically. Each powered element measures the signal strength of identification signals and determines its own address, eliminating human error and ensuring accurate identification even when components are swapped.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual process of identification with an automated electronic system. The controller transmits identification signals and devices automatically measure signal strength to determine addresses, substituting manual operator actions with automated electronic measurement and processing.
3Productivity
If powered elements are individually addressed for control, then precise control is achieved, but significant operator effort is required to function properly
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates the need for operator intervention in the identification and addressing process. Powered elements automatically measure signal strengths and determine their own addresses, allowing the system to be set up quickly without significant operator effort while maintaining precise control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller performs preliminary actions by transmitting identification signals that contain address information. Devices measure these signals in advance to determine their addresses before actual control operations begin, enabling quick system setup and operation.
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 quick and accurate identification of powered elements within irrigation systems, reducing operator effort and ensuring efficient communication and control without manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
a high frequency signal is superimposed on the normal voltage on a power circuit
Implementation Method 2
reducing the level of the received identification signal by a given increment
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a system and method for detecting and identifying power line carrier controlled devices within an irrigation system having a PLC BUS and a plurality of PLC powered devices. According to first preferred embodiment, the method preferably may include the steps of: initializing a controller; transmitted an identification signal onto the PLC BUS; receiving the transmitted identification signal by a first powered device in the transmission line; recording the signal strength of the received identification signal by the first powered device; reducing the level of the received identification signal by a given increment; receiving the transmitted identification signal by a second powered device in the transmission line; recording the signal strength of the received identification signal by the second powered device; reducing the level of the received identification signal by a given increment; receiving the transmitted identification signal at the controller; polling each powered device for the received strength of the identification signal at each device; creating a lookup table and assigning a system ID number to each powered device based on the reported signal levels received by each device; and sending communications signals to the first powered device based on the system assigned ID number indicated in the lookup table.