Self-Powered Wireless Flow Sensing for Remote Irrigation Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irrigation systems face challenges in controlling and monitoring water distribution over long distances due to the need for wired connections and the impracticality of retrofitting flow sensors in systems where a permanent power source is not available, especially when the water source is separated from the irrigation controller by obstacles like hardscapes or great distances.
Innovation Solution
A wireless flow system that includes a fluid delivery pipe with a flow sensor, a hydrogenerator-powered electrical storage device, and a radio to transmit flow signals, allowing for remote control of irrigation valves via a communication network, enabling efficient water management and monitoring without the need for continuous power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wired connection is used to control irrigation valves, then reliable power supply and control signal transmission are achieved, but the controller must be in close proximity to the valves and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with a wireless communication system. The controller communicates with irrigation valves via wireless signals (e.g., radio frequency), eliminating the need for physical wire connections and allowing the controller to be positioned remotely from the valves while maintaining reliable control signal transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless communication modules as intermediaries between the controller and irrigation valves. These modules transmit control signals and data wirelessly, serving as a mediator that enables communication without direct physical connection, thus resolving the contradiction between reliable transmission and proximity requirements.
2Measurement precision
If flow sensors are installed to monitor water consumption, then water management precision is improved, but permanent power sources are required which are not available in many locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-powered flow sensors that generate their own power through hydroelectric generation. The sensors utilize the kinetic energy of flowing water to drive a small turbine or generator, producing electrical power to operate the sensor electronics and wireless communication module, thereby eliminating the need for external power sources while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs hydraulic energy from the flowing water itself to power the measurement system. A small hydroelectric generator is integrated into the flow path, converting the mechanical energy of moving water into electrical energy to sustain the flow sensor's operation, thus resolving the power availability contradiction.
3Use of energy by moving object
If solar power is used to provide electricity for remote sensors, then power availability is improved, but the system becomes unreliable during periods without sunlight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-powered flow sensors that continuously generate electricity from the flowing water itself, rather than relying on intermittent external power sources like solar panels. This hydroelectric self-generation ensures continuous power availability regardless of weather conditions, thereby improving both power availability and reliability simultaneously.
4Ease of operation
If wireless communication is implemented for remote valve control, then controller proximity requirements are eliminated, but power consumption for radio transmission increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements wireless communication modules that are self-powered by the hydroelectric generator driven by flowing water. The continuous mechanical energy from water flow is converted to electrical energy, providing sufficient power for both the flow sensing electronics and the radio transmission, thus eliminating the power consumption contradiction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional hydroelectric power generation system that simultaneously powers multiple components: the flow sensor electronics, the wireless communication module, and potentially energy storage elements. This universal power source handles all energy requirements, resolving the contradiction between wireless communication power needs and available power.
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 remote and efficient control of irrigation systems over long distances, allowing for precise water distribution and monitoring, reducing the need for continuous power sources and facilitating the integration of flow sensors into existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
a hydrogenerator operative for generating electrical power in response to fluid flowing in the shunt fluid delivery pipe
Data Source
AI summary
In a flow system and method, a fluid delivery pipe is connected in series between a fluid distributor and a fluid valve that is connected in series between a fluid source and the fluid distributor. A controller, disposed remote from the fluid delivery pipe, can be programmed or configured to control the fluid value via a communication channel or communication network. A hydrogenerator, powered by fluid running from the fluid source to the fluid distributor, can charge a battery that can power a radio to wirelessly transmit flow data to the controller. The controller can control the open and close states of the fluid valve based on the wirelessly transmitted flow data received by the controller to control an amount of fluid delivered by the fluid delivery pipe, for example, for controlled irrigation of an area to a desired extent.