Self-Powered Irrigation Valves Using Water-Flow Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irrigation systems require costly installation and maintenance due to the need for trenching power lines and communication lines to connect valves to irrigation controllers, which complicates system design and implementation.
Innovation Solution
Self-powered irrigation valves that generate power using fluid flow, eliminating the need for external power and communication lines, and utilize wireless communication for control signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external power lines and communication lines are installed to connect valves to irrigation controllers, then reliable power supply and control are achieved, but installation cost and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The irrigation valve system generates its own electrical power through a hydroelectric generator driven by water flow through the valve. The system uses its own operational water flow to create the electricity needed for the solenoid and control electronics, making the system self-powered and eliminating the need for external power lines and communication infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The water flow serving the irrigation purpose simultaneously serves a dual function by driving the hydroelectric generator to produce electrical power. This multi-functionality allows the same water resource to both irrigate crops and power the control system, reducing infrastructure requirements
2Use of energy by moving object
If external power lines are installed to supply valves, then power supply is ensured, but installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system incorporates a hydroelectric generator that converts the kinetic energy of passing water into electrical energy, allowing the system to generate its own operating power without requiring external power lines, transformers, or electrical infrastructure installation
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the hydraulic flow of water through the valve to drive a hydroelectric generator. The water's kinetic energy is converted to mechanical rotation of the generator rotor, which then produces electrical current to power the solenoid and control circuitry
3Adaptability or versatility
If valves are placed in difficult locations, then irrigation coverage is improved, but installation and maintenance difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The self-powered valve system can be installed in remote or difficult-to-access locations without requiring proximity to power lines or communication infrastructure. The system's ability to generate its own power and use wireless communication enables deployment in previously inaccessible areas for irrigation control
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces traditional mechanical electrical connections and communication wiring with wireless communication technology. This substitution eliminates the need for physical connection to power and control infrastructure, allowing valves to be positioned anywhere within wireless signal range
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
Reduces installation costs, simplifies system design, and allows for flexible valve placement, including in difficult locations, while maintaining efficient irrigation control.
Implementation Method 1
a rechargeable power storage system that is configured to store electrical power generated by the generator and supply electrical power to the valve control system
Implementation Method 2
a generator that is fluidly coupled with the valve system and configured to generate electrical power in response to activation of the solenoid system and flow of water through the valve
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments provide irrigation generator systems that include a main conduit comprising an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit; a flow control system positioned within the main conduit; a generator conduit comprising a generator inlet conduit and a generator outlet conduit, wherein the generator inlet conduit is fluidly coupled with the main conduit upstream of the flow control system, the generator outlet conduit is fluidly coupled with the main conduit downstream of the flow control system; and a generator comprising a rotor assembly cooperated with generator conduit to be physically activated by a flow of fluid through the generator conduit causing rotation of the rotor assembly and generates electrical power. The flow control system transitions between a closed state to the open state in response to a water pressure exceeding a pressure threshold.