Variable-Frequency Drive Pump for Irrigation Flow Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current mechanized irrigation systems apply water and nutrients at a constant flow rate, leading to overwatering in some areas and underwatering in others due to varying field conditions, reducing efficiency and potentially damaging crops.
Innovation Solution
A variable-frequency drive (VFD) pump assembly is integrated into the irrigation system, allowing for selective adjustment of the flow rate through a control device that uses a water application map to optimize water distribution based on specific field conditions, coupled with a sprinkler assembly for precise dispersal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a constant flow rate is used for water application, then the irrigation system operation is simple, but overwatering and underwatering occur due to varying field conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static constant flow rate system to a dynamic variable flow rate system. The controller adjusts the flow rate in real-time based on field conditions, soil moisture levels, and crop requirements, allowing the irrigation system to adapt to varying spatial and temporal needs across the field while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the flow rate parameter dynamically. The system varies the water application rate based on multiple factors including soil type, crop stage, weather conditions, and real-time soil moisture sensor data. This allows optimization of water distribution to match actual field conditions without complicating the overall system operation through automated parameter adjustment.
2Ease of operation
If water is applied uniformly across the entire field, then the irrigation system is easy to control, but efficiency is reduced due to overwatering and underwatering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by enabling different water application rates for different zones within the field. The system divides the field into management zones based on soil type, topography, and crop requirements, then applies water at optimized rates specific to each zone. This localized approach improves irrigation efficiency by matching water application to actual needs while the centralized controller maintains ease of operation through automated zone management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements segmentation by dividing the field into multiple controllable zones with independent flow rate control. Each zone can be managed separately based on its specific requirements, allowing precise water application optimization. The segmentation is managed through a unified control system that automatically adjusts each zone's parameters, maintaining operational simplicity while achieving high irrigation efficiency through localized optimization.
3Area of stationary object
If high pressure is used for water dispersal, then water application coverage is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static high-pressure operation to dynamic pressure modulation. The system adjusts water pressure in real-time based on the irrigation zone, crop requirements, and weather conditions. Lower pressures are used when sufficient moisture is present or during high evaporation conditions, while higher pressures are applied only when and where needed, optimizing coverage while minimizing energy consumption through adaptive pressure control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the pressure parameter based on multiple factors. The controller modifies pressure settings according to soil moisture levels, crop water requirements, wind conditions, and zone-specific needs. This allows the system to achieve adequate water application coverage at lower pressures when conditions permit, thereby reducing power consumption while maintaining effective irrigation through intelligent parameter optimization.
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
This solution enables dynamic adjustment of water application rates across different field areas, enhancing irrigation efficiency and reducing crop damage by ensuring optimal water and nutrient distribution, while also reducing power consumption by operating at lower pressures.
Implementation Method 1
The pump assembly is configured to pump the applicant and to selectively adjust a flow rate of the applicant
Data Source
AI summary
An applicant dispersal assembly is described that couples to an irrigation system. It is contemplated that the irrigation system may be a center pivot irrigation system, a linear move irrigation system, or the like. The applicant dispersal assembly is configured to receive an applicant and selectively adjust a flow rate of the applicant. In an implementation, the applicant dispersal assembly includes a pump assembly configured to couple to an irrigation conduit. The irrigation conduit is configured to provide an applicant to the pump assembly for dispersing over a cultivation area. The pump assembly is configured to pump the applicant and to selectively adjust a flow rate of the applicant. The applicant dispersal assembly also includes an applicant dispersal device that is coupled to the pump assembly. The applicant dispersal device is configured to disperse the applicant.