Wireless Irrigation Flow Control Using Hydrogenerator-Powered Sensing
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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 far from the irrigation controller.
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
1Length of stationary object
If a wired connection is used to control irrigation valves, then the controller can be placed close to the valves, but the system cannot operate over long distances and requires physical wiring installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wiring system with a wireless communication system. The controller and irrigation valves communicate via wireless signals (such as radio frequency), eliminating the need for physical wire connections while maintaining control functionality over extended distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless communication signals as an intermediary between the controller and irrigation valves. These signals transmit control commands and status information without requiring direct physical connection, enabling long-distance operation.
2Measurement precision
If a flow sensor is installed to monitor water usage, then water consumption can be tracked, but the sensor requires a permanent power source which is not available in many irrigation locations
Solution Approach 1:
The flow sensor is designed to harvest energy from the water flow itself. As water passes through the sensor, it generates electrical energy through mechanisms such as piezoelectric materials or micro-hydro generation, providing self-powered operation without external power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the energy state of the system by converting the kinetic energy of flowing water into electrical energy. This parameter transformation enables the sensor to operate autonomously by utilizing the natural flow of water rather than requiring an external power supply.
3Length of stationary object
If wireless communication is used for remote valve control, then the controller can be placed far from valves, but power must be supplied to the wireless transmitter and sensor components
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless transmitter and sensor components harvest energy from the passing water flow to power their operations. This self-powered approach eliminates the need for external power sources or batteries, enabling remote operation without compromising energy availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously harvests energy from the water flow as it passes through the irrigation system. This continuous energy generation ensures that the wireless components have constant power availability for transmission and sensing operations throughout the irrigation cycle.
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 control and monitoring of irrigation systems over long distances, optimizing water usage and reducing the need for continuous power sources, thus improving the efficiency and practicality of irrigation management.
Implementation Method 1
a hydrogenerator mounted to the shunt fluid delivery pipe, said hydrogenerator operative for generating electrical power in response to fluid flowing in the shunt fluid delivery pipe
Implementation Method 2
a flow sensor mounted to the fluid delivery pipe between the fluid valve and the fluid distributor, said flow sensor operative for sensing a flow of fluid in said fluid delivery pipe and for outputting a flow signal in response to the flow of fluid
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.