Wireless Irrigation Valve Control via Zigbee and Schedule Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated irrigation systems rely on hard-wired connections and manual controls, lacking efficient and remote management capabilities for water flow control, especially in terms of scheduling and meteorological adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A wireless irrigation flow control device with a conduit, wireless receiver, and valve that receives signals to control water flow, incorporating a schedule module for automated activation and deactivation based on time and meteorological data, using a carrier frequency below 1 GHz for increased range and supporting Zigbee-compliant communication for remote access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hard-wired connections and manual controls are used in irrigation systems, then system reliability is improved, but ease of operation and remote management capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control systems with automated electronic control. The controller automatically activates solenoids based on programmed schedules and meteorological data, eliminating the need for manual operation while maintaining system reliability through automated monitoring and control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The irrigation system is designed to self-regulate based on meteorological conditions and pre-programmed schedules. The controller automatically adjusts water flow duration and timing without human intervention, allowing the system to serve itself while improving ease of operation.
2Device complexity
If manual control methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and water management efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides water flow control into separate controllable zones using individual solenoids for different areas (lawn, garden, pool, fountain). Each zone can be independently controlled and timed, allowing efficient management of multiple destinations simultaneously, thereby improving productivity without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller adjusts operational parameters such as water flow duration, timing schedules, and activation sequences based on meteorological data and user preferences. This dynamic parameter adjustment optimizes water management efficiency and productivity while keeping the control system manageable.
3Productivity
If automated scheduling based on meteorological data is implemented, then water management efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller acts as an intermediary between meteorological data and water flow control. It processes weather information and automatically translates it into appropriate irrigation schedules and solenoid activation patterns, improving water management efficiency while shielding the user from complex decision-making processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-programs irrigation schedules and control parameters based on anticipated meteorological conditions and historical data. This preliminary configuration allows the system to respond automatically to weather changes without requiring real-time complex calculations, balancing efficiency with manageable complexity.
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 efficient, remote, and automated control of water flow, adapting to weather conditions and user schedules, enhancing water management efficiency and reducing manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
The wireless receiver is configured to receive wirelessly transmitted signals
Data Source
AI summary
A watering control system includes a bridge device and a flow control device. The bridge device communicates with a web server to maintain a watering schedule. The bridge device also communicates wirelessly with the flow control device. The flow control device includes an annular inlet for connecting to an external faucet or another source of fluid, an annular outlet for connecting to a hose or another water conveying channel, and a conduit positioned in communication with the inlet and the outlet. The flow control device further includes a wireless receiver and a valve. The receiver is configured to receive a wirelessly transmitted valve activation signal from the bridge device and the valve is configured to open in accordance with the activation signal to enable the fluid to flow through the conduit.