WO2017021718A1 - Improved irrigation valve and method of use - Google Patents
Improved irrigation valve and method of use Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2017021718A1 WO2017021718A1 PCT/GB2016/052361 GB2016052361W WO2017021718A1 WO 2017021718 A1 WO2017021718 A1 WO 2017021718A1 GB 2016052361 W GB2016052361 W GB 2016052361W WO 2017021718 A1 WO2017021718 A1 WO 2017021718A1
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- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- pressure
- valve
- control unit
- solenoid valve
- irrigation
- Prior art date
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
- F16K31/00—Actuating devices; Operating means; Releasing devices
- F16K31/12—Actuating devices; Operating means; Releasing devices actuated by fluid
- F16K31/36—Actuating devices; Operating means; Releasing devices actuated by fluid in which fluid from the circuit is constantly supplied to the fluid motor
- F16K31/40—Actuating devices; Operating means; Releasing devices actuated by fluid in which fluid from the circuit is constantly supplied to the fluid motor with electrically-actuated member in the discharge of the motor
- F16K31/402—Actuating devices; Operating means; Releasing devices actuated by fluid in which fluid from the circuit is constantly supplied to the fluid motor with electrically-actuated member in the discharge of the motor acting on a diaphragm
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
- A01G25/00—Watering gardens, fields, sports grounds or the like
- A01G25/16—Control of watering
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
- F16K31/00—Actuating devices; Operating means; Releasing devices
- F16K31/02—Actuating devices; Operating means; Releasing devices electric; magnetic
- F16K31/06—Actuating devices; Operating means; Releasing devices electric; magnetic using a magnet, e.g. diaphragm valves, cutting off by means of a liquid
- F16K31/0644—One-way valve
- F16K31/0655—Lift valves
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
- F16K37/00—Special means in or on valves or other cut-off apparatus for indicating or recording operation thereof, or for enabling an alarm to be given
- F16K37/0025—Electrical or magnetic means
- F16K37/005—Electrical or magnetic means for measuring fluid parameters
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- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05D—SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING OR REGULATING NON-ELECTRIC VARIABLES
- G05D16/00—Control of fluid pressure
- G05D16/20—Control of fluid pressure characterised by the use of electric means
- G05D16/2093—Control of fluid pressure characterised by the use of electric means with combination of electric and non-electric auxiliary power
- G05D16/2095—Control of fluid pressure characterised by the use of electric means with combination of electric and non-electric auxiliary power using membranes within the main valve
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
- Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Environmental Sciences (AREA)
- Fluid-Driven Valves (AREA)
- Magnetically Actuated Valves (AREA)
Abstract
An irrigation valve comprising: a solenoid valve (120, 20, 300), the solenoid valve (120, 20, 300) comprising; a solenoid configured to actuate a plunger (316) to open or close the solenoid valve (120, 20, 300); at least one pressure sensor (150, 318, 320, 380) configured to measure inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure of the irrigation valve; and a control unit (135, 380) configured to generate a control signal in response to a measured pressure reading from the at least one pressure sensor (150, 318, 320, 380); wherein the at least one pressure sensor (150, 318, 320, 380) is configured to measure the valve outlet pressure when the plunger (316) is in a first position; and wherein the at least one pressure sensor (150, 318, 320, 380) is configured to measure the inlet fluid pressure when the plunger (316) is in a second position. A related irrigation system and methods of monitoring fluid flow through an irrigation valve and of controlling fluid flow through such an irrigation valve are also disclosed.
Description
Improved Irrigation Valve and Method of Use The present invention relates to the field of irrigation systems and particularly to providing an improved irrigation valve which monitors fluid flow through the valve. Background to the invention Irrigation systems use flow valves to control the supply of water to fluid emitters such as sprinklers. The irrigation systems used in agriculture, landscaping and golf courses typically comprise a large network of sprinklers and require accurate control of the actuation of individual flow valves.
The control of irrigation valves is often done by a central controller selectively activating wires associated with the specific irrigation valve. The actuation signal is sent through a plurality of buried wires, one wire dedicated to each irrigation valve and a common wire. An alternative control system uses a plurality of electronic-pre-numbered irrigation decoders connected to a common two conductor electrical cable from a controller. The controller sends a modulated digital data message commanding a particular decoder to actuate its associated irrigation valve. Those decoders whose pre-numbered addresses correspond with the number in the control message will act on it. The other decoders in the system will ignore the message. Current irrigation valves (Figure 1A and 1 B) use a solenoid within the irrigation valve to control the opening and closing of the valve. If an irrigation valve fails to operate there are a number of possible reasons for the failure. These comprise: (a) the central controller may be faulty, (b) the wiring between the controller and the solenoid may be faulty; (c) the solenoid coil may be faulty, (d) the plunger may be mechanically jammed (e) the valve control action may be faulty; or (f) the main pipe to/from the valve may be blocked. A disadvantage of current irrigation systems and irrigation valves is that they do not provide feedback on whether fluid is flowing through the valve. Faulty irrigation valves can only be diagnosed by uncovering and inspecting the valve which is time consuming and expensive. Summary of the invention It is an object of at least one aspect of the present invention to obviate or at least mitigate the foregoing disadvantages of known prior art irrigation systems. It is another object of an aspect of the present invention to provide an irrigation valve with improved productivity and/or efficiency which is capable of reliably monitoring the fluid flow through the valve and/or controlling the fluid flow through the valve. Further aims and objects of the invention will become apparent from reading the following description.
According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided an irrigation valve
comprising:
a solenoid valve configured to actuate the irrigation valve;
at least one pressure sensor configured to measure inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure of the irrigation valve; and
a control unit configured to generate a control signal in response to the measured pressure reading from the at least one pressure sensor. By providing an irrigation valve capable of measuring the inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure of the irrigation valve the valve may be capable of detecting and/or monitoring fluid flow through the irrigation valve. The irrigation valve may comprise a first flow path and a diaphragm configured to move between a first and a second position to open or the close the first flow path. Preferably the first flow path is the main flow path through the irrigation valve. The irrigation valve may comprise a second flow path. The solenoid valve may be configured to open or close the second flow path. Preferably the second flow path is in fluid communication with a control chamber in the irrigation valve. Preferably actuation of the solenoid valve in the control chamber controls the actuation of an irrigation valve. Preferably the opening and/or closing of the second flow path adjusts the position of the diaphragm. The pressure sensor may be configured to measure inlet fluid pressure to monitor fluid flow through the first flow path and/or second flow path. The pressure sensor may be configured to measure outlet fluid pressure to monitor fluid flow through the first flow path and/or second flow path. The at least one pressure sensor may provide pressure readings to the control unit. The solenoid valve may be configured to open and/or close the irrigation valve.
The at least one pressure sensor may be configured to measure valve inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet pressure of the solenoid valve. The control unit may be configured to control the actuation of the solenoid in the solenoid valve to change the flow through irrigation valve. The control unit may be configured to
control the modulation of the solenoid to change the flow through irrigation valve. The control unit may be configured to control the modulation of the solenoid to change the flow through the first flow path and/or second flow path. The control unit may be configured to control the actuation of the solenoid valve as a function of the measured inlet fluid pressure and/or the measured outlet fluid pressure of the irrigation valve and/or solenoid valve. The control unit may be configured to transmit measured pressure readings to a central controller. The control unit may convert the measured pressure readings into a binary sequence prior to transmitting the readings to the central controller. Preferably the control unit may be configured to compare the measured pressure reading with at least one preset and/or historical measured pressure reading. The control unit may determine when the measured pressure differs from at least one preset and/or historical measured pressure level. The control unit may generate a control signal when a change in pressure from the at least one preset and/or historical measured pressure level is measured. The control unit may generate a control signal when the change in pressure rises above or drops to or below a preset level. The preset level may be a fixed amount. The control unit may be programmable with the preset level. The preset level may be set as a function of the historical measured pressure level. Preferably the control signal is configured to actuate the solenoid valve to modulate fluid flow through the solenoid valve and/or irrigation valve. Preferably the control signal is configured to actuate the solenoid to modulate fluid flow through the solenoid valve and/or irrigation valve when the measured pressure is outside a desired range of operating pressures.
The control signal may actuate the solenoid to modulate fluid flow through the solenoid valve and/or irrigation valve when the pressure detected by pressure sensor is outside the preset pressure threshold range or a desired range of operating pressures set in the control unit. The control signal may actuate an alarm and/or a visual indicator to alert a user that the pressure in the inlet and/or outlet pressure of the solenoid valve and/or irrigation valve is outside the preset pressure threshold range set in the control unit. Preferably the control unit is configured to receive a command signal from a central controller. The control unit may be configured to actuate the control unit, the solenoid valve and/or pressure sensor in response to the command signal. The control unit may be configured to decode data encoded in the command signal.
Alternatively a decoder device connected to the control unit may be configured to decode data encoded in the command signal. The control unit may be programmable with a unique predetermined address. Each irrigation valve in an irrigation system may have a unique predetermined address associated with the individual irrigation valve. The unique predetermined address may identify the individual irrigation valve in an irrigation system. Preferably the at least one pressure sensor is a pressure transducer. Preferably the irrigation valve has a housing. The components of the irrigation valve including the solenoid valve, at least one pressure sensor and the control unit may be located in housing of the irrigation valve. According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a solenoid valve for an irrigation valve, the solenoid valve comprising:
a solenoid configured to actuate a plunger to open or close the solenoid valve; and at least one pressure sensor configured to measure inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure of the irrigation valve; and
a control unit configured to generate a control signal in response to the measured pressure reading from the at least one pressure sensor.
By providing a solenoid valve comprising at least one pressure sensor capable of measuring the fluid inlet pressure and/or fluid outlet pressure of the irrigation valve, the pressure readings may allow the status of the irrigation valve to be monitored and may allow improved control of the actuation of the irrigation valve. By monitoring the fluid inlet pressure and/or fluid outlet pressure problems in an irrigation system such as blocked or leaking pipes may be identified. Preferably the solenoid valve comprises a body wherein the body comprises a fluid flow path. The solenoid may be configured to actuate a plunger to open or close the flow path. Preferably the fluid flow path is in fluid communication with a control chamber of an irrigation valve. Preferably actuation of the solenoid valve controls the actuation of the irrigation valve. The inlet fluid pressure of the irrigation valve may be equal to inlet fluid pressure of the solenoid valve. The outlet fluid pressure of the irrigation valve may be equal to outlet fluid pressure of the solenoid valve. Preferably the control signal is configured to actuate the solenoid valve. The control signal may actuate an alarm and/or a visual indicator Preferably the plunger has a hollow channel. The plunger may have a channel which is in fluid communication with the pressure sensor. The plunger may have a central throughbore which is in fluid communication with the pressure sensor. Preferably the plunger is in fluid communication with the irrigation valve inlet and/or the irrigation valve outlet. Preferably the plunger is in fluid communication with the solenoid valve inlet and/or the solenoid outlet. The at least one pressure sensor may provide pressure readings to the control unit. The control unit may be configured to modulate the actuation of the solenoid valve to change the flow through the flow path of the solenoid valve.
The pressure sensor may be configured to measure the irrigation valve outlet pressure and/or solenoid valve outlet pressure when the plunger is in a first position. The pressure sensor may be configured to measure the irrigation valve inlet pressure and/or solenoid valve inlet pressure when the plunger is in a second position. The control unit may control the actuation of the solenoid valve as a function of the measured inlet fluid pressure and/or the measured outlet fluid pressure. The control unit may be configured to transmit measured pressure readings to a central controller. The control unit may be configured to convert the measured pressure readings into a binary sequence prior to transmitting to the central controller. The control unit may be configured to transmit the measured pressure readings to the central controller by pulsing current through windings in the solenoid in a binary sequence. The central controller may be configured to convert the binary sequence into pressure reading data. The control unit may be configured to receive at least one pressure reading from the pressure transducer and compare the measured pressure reading with at least one preset and/or historical measured pressure reading. The control unit may be configured to determine when the measured pressure differs from at least one preset and/or historical measured pressure level. The control unit may be configured to generate a control signal when a change in pressure from the at least one preset and/or historical measured pressure level is measured. The control unit may be configured to generate a control signal when the change in pressure rises above or drops to or below a preset level. The preset level may be a fixed amount. The control unit may be programmable with the preset level. The preset level may be set as a function of the historical measured pressure level. Preferably the control signal is configured to actuate the solenoid valve to modulate fluid flow through the solenoid valve.
Preferably the control signal is configured to actuate the solenoid valve to modulate fluid flow through the solenoid valve when the measured pressure is outside a desired range of operating pressures. The control unit may actuate the solenoid to modulate fluid flow through the solenoid valve when the pressure detected by the at least one pressure sensor is outside the preset pressure threshold range set in the control unit. The control unit may actuate an alarm and/or a visual indicator to alert a user that the fluid pressure in a solenoid valve inlet and/or solenoid valve outlet is outside the preset pressure threshold range set in the control unit. The control unit may be configured to compare the measured inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure with a differential pressure. Preferably the control unit is configured to receive a command signal from a central controller. The control unit may be configured to actuate the control unit, the solenoid valve and/or pressure sensor in response to the command signal. The control unit may be configured to decode data encoded in the command signal.
Alternatively a decoder device connected to the control unit may be configured to decode data encoded in the command signal. The control unit may be programmable with a unique predetermined address. Each solenoid valve in each irrigation valve in an irrigation system may have a unique predetermined address associated with the individual solenoid valve. The unique predetermined address may identify the individual solenoid valve in an irrigation system. Preferably the fluid is water. Preferably the at least one pressure sensor is a pressure transducer. Preferably the solenoid valve comprising:
a valve body, wherein the valve body comprises
a solenoid configured to actuate a plunger to open or close the solenoid valve; and
at least one pressure sensor configured to measure inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure of the irrigation valve; and
a control unit configured to generate a control signal in response to the measured pressure reading from the at least one pressure sensor. Embodiments of the second aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the first aspect of the invention or its embodiments, or vice versa. According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for controlling an irrigation valve in an irrigation system comprising:
a solenoid valve disposed in the irrigation valve wherein the solenoid valve comprises; a solenoid;
at least one pressure sensor configured to measure inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure of the irrigation valve; and
a control unit;
wherein the control unit is configured to actuate the solenoid in response to a measured pressure reading from the at least one pressure sensor. By providing an irrigation valve comprising a control unit which is configured to control the actuation of the solenoid valve the system may provide improved control over the actuation of the irrigation valve. The solenoid may be modulated to change the flow through the solenoid valve and the irrigation valve. The at least one pressure sensor may be configured to measure the inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure of the solenoid valve. The control unit may control the actuation of the solenoid valve and/or the irrigation valve as a function of the inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure of the irrigation valve and/or solenoid valve. By providing a pressure sensor capable of measuring irrigation valve inlet fluid pressure and/or solenoid valve inlet fluid pressure the pressure upstream of the irrigation valve may be measured.
By providing a pressure sensor capable of measuring irrigation valve outlet fluid pressure and/or solenoid valve outlet fluid pressure the pressure downstream of the irrigation valve may be measured. A system which provides a pressure sensor capable of measuring downstream pressure levels may facilitate the detection of faulty valves and/or faulty fluid emitters that may generate excess flow. Embodiments of the third aspect of the invention may include one or more features of the first or second aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa. According to an fourth aspect of the invention there is provided an irrigation control system comprising one or more irrigation valves of the first aspect and/or one or more irrigation valves comprising a solenoid valve of the second aspect of the invention. Embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of any of the first to third aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa. According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of monitoring fluid flow through an irrigation valve comprising
providing an irrigation valve comprising:
a solenoid valve configured to actuate the irrigation valve; and
at least one pressure sensor;
measuring the irrigation valve inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure to monitor flow through the irrigation valve. The method may comprise measuring the fluid inlet pressure and/or fluid outlet pressure of the solenoid valve and/or irrigation valve to assess fluid flow through the solenoid valve and/or irrigation valve. The method of the fifth aspect of the invention may provide an assessment of the flow through the irrigation valve. The method may facilitate the monitoring of fluid flow and identify faults which affect flow through the irrigation valve and an irrigation system. The method may comprise analysing the measured pressure level and actuating an alarm and/or a visual indicator when the measured pressure level indicate, that the fluid is flowing at a reduced or elevated level than expected.
The method may comprise tracking and recording historical measured pressure levels of the irrigation valve inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure. The method may comprise tracking and recording historical measured pressure levels of the solenoid valve inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure. Embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of any of the first to fourth aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa. According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of
controlling fluid flow through an irrigation valve comprising
providing an irrigation valve comprising:
a solenoid valve configured to actuate the irrigation valve;
at least one pressure sensor; and
a control unit;
measuring irrigation valve inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure;
generating a pressure measurement signal to the control unit;
analysing the measurement signal in the control unit to compare the measured pressure with a desired operating pressure threshold range;
generating a control signal from the control unit when the measured pressure level is determined to be outside the desired range of operating pressure thresholds wherein the control signal controls the actuation of the irrigation valve. The method may comprise measuring the fluid inlet pressure and/or fluid outlet pressure of the solenoid valve to assess fluid flow through the solenoid valve and/or irrigation valve. The method may comprise actuating the solenoid valve to increase flow through the irrigation valve when the measured outlet pressure of the solenoid valve and/or irrigation valve is lower than the desired range of operating pressure thresholds. The method may comprise actuating the solenoid valve to reduce flow through the irrigation valve when the measured outlet pressure of the solenoid valve and/or irrigation valve is higher than the desired range of operating pressure thresholds. The method may comprise setting a desired range of operating pressure thresholds or at least one preset pressure threshold level or a threshold range in the control unit.
The method may comprise transmitting pressure data to a central controller.
The method may comprise generating a command signal from a central controller to control the actuation of the control unit, the at least one pressure pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve. The method may comprise decoding the command signal and comparing the decoded data with at least one command setting in the control unit. The method may comprise actuating the control unit, the at least one pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve when the decoded data corresponds with at least one command setting in the control unit. The method may comprise programming the command setting in the control unit with an intial unique predetermined address which may identify the irrigation valve in an irrigation system. The method may comprise actuating the control unit, the at least one pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve when the decoded data contains command instructions for a control unit with a predetermined address which matches a predetermined address programmed in the command setting in the control unit. The method may comprise programming the command setting of the control unit with a second and/or replacement predetermined address. The second and/or replacement predetermined address may identify the location of the irrigation valve in an irrigation system. The second and/or replacement predetermined address may be a general address and/or zero address which is configured to actuate the control unit, the at least one pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve when the control unit receives a command signal from the controller. The second and/or replacement predetermined address may be configured to actuate the control unit, the at least one pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve when the control unit receives any command signal from the controller.
The method may comprise deactivating the unique predetermined address in the command setting in the control unit. The method may comprise actuating the control unit, the at least one pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve when the control unit receives a command from the controller. The method may comprise actuating the control unit, the at least one pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve of all irrigation valves which have their unique predetermined address when the decoded data contains a general address, zero address setting or no address setting when the control unit receives a command from the controller. Embodiments of the sixth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of any of the first to fifth aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa. According to a seventh aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of
monitoring fluid flow through a solenoid valve of an irrigation valve comprising
providing a solenoid valve comprising:
a solenoid configured to actuate a plunger to open or close the solenoid valve; and at least one pressure sensor;
measuring an inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure of the solenoid valve to assess flow through the solenoid valve. The above-described method may facilitate the accurate monitoring of flow through the solenoid valve and allow improved monitoring and control of the flow through the irrigation valve. The method may comprise analysing the measured pressure and actuating an alarm and/or a visual indicator if the measured pressure levels indicate that the fluid is flowing at a reduced or elevated level than expected through the solenoid valve and/or irrigation valve. The method may comprise modulating the actuation of the solenoid valve to increase flow through the solenoid valve to increase flow through the irrigation valve when the measured outlet pressure of the solenoid valve is lower than the desired range of operating pressure thresholds.
The method may comprise modulating the actuation of the solenoid valve to reduce flow through the solenoid valve to reduce flow through the irrigation valve when the measured outlet pressure of the solenoid valve is higher than the desired range of operating pressure thresholds. Embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention may include one or more features of any of the first to sixth aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa. According to an eighth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of
controlling fluid flow through a solenoid valve of an irrigation valve comprising
providing a solenoid valve comprising:
a solenoid configured to actuate a plunger to open or close the solenoid valve;
at least one pressure sensor; and
a control unit;
measuring an inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure of the solenoid valve;
generating a pressure measurement signal to the control unit;
analysing the measurement signal in the control unit to compare the measured pressure level with a desired operating pressure threshold range;
generating a control signal from the control unit when the measured pressure level is determined to be outside the desired range of operating pressure thresholds wherein the control signal controls the actuation of the solenoid valve. The method may comprise actuating an alarm and/or a visual indicator when the measured pressure level is determined to be outside the desired range of operating pressure thresholds. The method may comprise actuating the solenoid valve to increase flow through the solenoid valve and/or irrigation valve when the measured inlet and/or outlet pressure of the solenoid valve is lower than the desired range of operating pressure thresholds. The method may comprise actuating the solenoid valve to reduce flow through the solenoid valve and/or irrigation valve when the measured inlet and/or outlet pressure of the solenoid valve is higher than the desired range of operating pressure thresholds.
The method may comprise setting a desired range of operating pressure thresholds or a preset pressure threshold level or range in the control unit. The method may comprise transmitting pressure data to a central controller. The method may comprise generating a command signal from a central controller to control the actuation of the control unit, the at least one pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve. The method may comprise decoding the command signal and comparing the decoded data with at least one command setting in the control unit. The method may comprise actuating the control unit, the at least one pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve when the decoded data corresponds with at least one command setting in the control unit. The method may comprise programming the command setting in the control unit with an intial unique predetermined address which may identify the irrigation valve in an irrigation system. The method may comprise actuating the control unit, the at least one pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve when the decoded data contains command instructions for a control unit with a predetermined address which matches a predetermined address programmed in the command setting in the control unit. The method may comprise programming the command setting of the control unit with a second and/or replacement predetermined address. The method may comprise deactivating the unique predetermined address in the command setting in the control unit. The method may comprise actuating the control unit, the at least one pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve when the control unit receives a command from the controller. The method may comprise actuating the control unit, the at least one pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve of all irrigation valves which have their unique predetermined
address when the decoded data contains a general address, zero address setting or no address setting when the control unit receives a command from the controller. Embodiments of the eighth aspect of the invention may include one or more features of any of the first to seventh aspects of the invention or their embodiments, or vice versa. According to further aspects of the invention, there is provided an irrigation valve, solenoid valve, an irrigation system as herein described with reference to the appended drawings. Brief description of the drawings There will now be described, by way of example only, various embodiments of the invention with reference to the following drawings (like reference numerals referring to like features) in which: Figures 1A and 1 B are cross sectional views of an irrigation valve according to the prior art; Figure 2 is a cross sectional view of an irrigation valve comprising a solenoid valve in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 is a cross-sectional schematic representation the solenoid valve of Figure 2; Figure 4 is a graphical representation of an output command from a control unit to modulate the current supply to the solenoid windings in order to transmit a binary sequence of the measured pressure levels to a central controller, as may be used in preferred embodiments of the invention; Figure 5 is a graphical representation of an example mark/space ratio pulse for the energisation of the solenoid valve, as may be used in preferred embodiments of the invention; Figures 6A and 6B are enlarged schematic representations of a section of the solenoid valve described in Figure 3; and
Figure 7 is a graphical representation of the pressure measured by the pressure sensor as a plunger in the solenoid valve described in Figure 3 is moved between an upward retracted position and a downward extended position.
Detailed description of preferred embodiments Figures 1A and 1 B show an irrigation valve assembly known in the prior art. The valve assembly 10 has an upsteam pilot pathway 12 which is a small flow circuit which is in fluid communication with a control chamber 14 and the main flow line 16. The upstream pilot pathway comprises a restriction 18 and a solenoid valve 20. The control chamber 14 comprises a diaphragm 22 which provides the seal for a main valve seat 22a. The operation of the diaphragm 22 is controlled by the water volume in the control chamber 14. When the solenoid valve 20 is in an opened position as shown in Figure 1A it opens a downstream pilot pathway 12b allowing water to flow out of the control chamber 14. The outflow of water through pathway 12b is greater than the inflow of water into the control chamber 14 due to the restriction 18. The pressure in the control chamber 14 decreases which enables the diaphragm 22 to move to an open position where the diaphragm is moved off its valve seat 22a. In this position water flows though the irrigation valve. When the solenoid valve 20 is in a closed position as shown in Figure 1 B the solenoid obstructs and closes the downstream pilot pathway 12b preventing water from flowing out of the control chamber 14. This allows water pressure to accumulate in the control chamber. The pressure in the control chamber 14 increases which acts on the upper side of the diaphragm 22 and moves the diaphragm onto its valve seat 22a forcing the irrigation valve to close. Figure 2 shows an improved irrigation valve for monitoring and controlling water flow in accordance to a first embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 shows an irrigation valve assembly 100 having upsteam pilot pathway 1 12 which is a small flow circuit which is in fluid communication with a control chamber 1 14 and a main flow line 116. The upstream pilot pathway 1 12 comprises a restriction 118 and a
solenoid valve 120. The valve assembly also comprises a diaphragm 122 which is configured to provide a seal for the main valve seat 122a. The operation of the diaphragm 122 is controlled by the solenoid valve to control the water flow into and out from the control chamber 114. The solenoid valve 120 comprises a plunger (not shown) and a pressure sensor 150 which is configured to measure the inlet and/or outlet water pressure in the irrigation valve. When the plunger is retracted, the pressure sensor measures the pressure in the downstream pilot pathway 112b which is equivalent to the irrigation valve outlet pressure. When the plunger is extended, the pressure sensor measures the pressure in the upstream pilot pathway 112 which is equivalent to the irrigation valve inlet pressure. The actuation of the solenoid valve is controlled by a control unit 135. The control unit is configured to actuate the solenoid valve based on pressure information provided by the pressure sensor. The control unit 135 may provide pressure information to a central controller via wires 130 to allow a user to monitor the pressure information and flow through the valve remotely. The central controller provides a command signal to the control unit to actuate the control unit, pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve. In a multi-wire irrigation system, the solenoid actuation is controlled by the central controller selectively activating the wires associated with that particular solenoid valve in the irrigation system. Alternatively in a two-wire irrigation system the actuation of the solenoid valve is controlled by each solenoid valve in the irrigation system having a designated pre-numbered electronic address. In this case the central controller sends a modulated digital data command signal commanding the actuation of the control unit, pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve. The irrigation valve comprising a control unit with the corresponding pre- numbered address will act on the signal. All other irrigation valves in the irrigation system which do not have the appropriate corresponding pre-numbered address will ignore the signal.
The designated pre-numbered electronic address may be assigned to the control unit to control the actuation of the control unit, pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve. The pre- numbered electronic address may be assigned to a control unit and stored in a non-volatile memory. The user may change the pre-numbered electronic address stored in a non- volatile memory. Alternatively the pre-numbered electronic address is assigned
permanently to a control unit during manufacture. Additionally each solenoid valve in the irrigation system with a designated pre-numbered electronic address may have the capability of having the designated pre-numbered electronic address changed to a "zero" position so turning off the feature of having a designated pre-numbered electronic address. In this case the solenoid valve is actuated by the central controller selectively activating wires associated with each solenoid valve as in a multi-wire irrigation system. Conversely, the prenumbered address of "zero" may be changed back to a pre-numbered electronic address. A visual indicator 140 is used to indicate the operational status of the solenoid or report a fault. The visual indicator is a number of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). Alternatively the indicator may be a multi-colour LED such as a two colour LED. A first colour indicates a first status such as the solenoid is functioning in a designated pre- numbered electronic address mode. A second colour indicates a second status such as the solenoid is in an open position while the solenoid is functioning in a designated pre- numbered electronic address mode. The combination of the first and second colours may indicate a third status such as the solenoid is not functioning in a designated pre- numbered electronic address mode. With many designated pre-numbered electronic addresses on the same two-wire cable, it is important that during the activation of the various indicator colours that the AC current consumption of the designated pre-numbered electronic addresses device remains constant. If the AC current consumption was to vary the collective current measured on the two wire path would vary which could interfere with data signals between the central controller and the solenoid. The current consumption of first colour and the second colour both consume the same circuit current when illuminated. The third colour being a combination of the first colour
and the second colour is displayed by multiplexing the first colour and then the second colour to produce the third colour. If the indicator 140 does not produce a colour it may indicate a fault such as no power, broken wire or a faulty circuit. Figure 3 provides further details of the solenoid valve of the improved irrigation valve for monitoring and controlling water flow in accordance to an embodiment of the invention. The irrigation valve assembly comprises a fail -safe close solenoid valve 300 configured to be disposed in an irrigation valve pilot pathway 310. Upstream pilot pathway 310a is in fluid communication with an irrigation valve inlet pathway, valve control chamber (shown as 1 14 in Figure 2) and a solenoid valve inlet port 312a. Downstream pilot pathway 310b is in fluid communication with an irrigation valve outlet pathway and a solenoid valve outlet port 312b. The solenoid valve comprises solenoid winding 314 and a plunger 316. The plunger 316 has a central water channel throughbore 318 which is in fluid communication with a pressure sensor 320. The central water channel throughbore 318 is also in fluid communication with the valve inlet port 312a and valve outlet port 312b via channels 322a and 322b. The pressure sensor 320 is configured to measure the fluid pressure surrounding the plunger 316 within the central water channel throughbore 318. The plunger 316 is configured to move in an upward direction when a voltage is present in the solenoid winding 314. The plunger 316 when in this lifted position opens a pathway between inlet port 312a and outlet port 312b. Water is able to flow from the upstream pilot pathway 310a to the downstream pilot pathway 310b via inlet port 312a and outlet port 312b. Water is also able to flow through the central water channel throughbore 318 via channels 322a and 322b. When the pathway between inlet port 312a and outlet port 312b is opened the pressure measured by the pressure sensor 318 is the pressure in the downstream pilot pathway 310b which is equivalent to the pressure in the irrigation valve outlet pathway. Depending on the dimensions of the upstream and downstream pilot pathways there may be a difference between the outlet pressure measured by the pressure sensor and the
actual outlet pressure due to the water flow through the small orifice of the upstream and downstream pilot pathways. This pressure difference is calculated based on the known dimensions of the upstream and downstream pilot pathways. The dimensions of the pathways and/or the calculated pressure difference may be set in the control unit. The plunger 316 is configured to move in a downward direction when a voltage is not present in the solenoid winding 314. The plunger 316 is moved to a closed position by a return spring 324 located between the plunger 316 and the solenoid housing. The plunger 316 obstructs and closes the pathway between inlet port 312a and outlet port 312b in the pilot pathway 310 preventing water from flowing from the upstream pilot pathway 310a to the downstream pilot pathway 310b via inlet port 312a and outlet port 312b. Water is able to flow from the upstream pilot pathway 310a into the central water channel throughbore 318 via channels 322a. The pressure measured by the pressure sensor when the pathway between the inlet port 312a and outlet port 312b is closed is the pressure in the upstream pilot pathway 310a which is equivalent to the pressure in the irrigation valve inlet pathway. A visual indicator 340 is used to indicate the operational status of the solenoid or report a fault. A control unit 380 is used to control the actuation of the solenoid valve 300. The pressure measurements from the pressure sensor 320 are communicated to the control unit 380. The control unit 380 is programmable and has adjustable settings for pressure readings. The control unit 380 is set with a threshold pressure level and/or threshold pressure range. The control unit 380 is configured to compare the pressure level measured by the pressure sensor with preset threshold pressure levels or ranges. If the pressure detected by pressure sensor 380 is below, equal to or above a preset level or outside the threshold pressure range then the control unit activates the visual indicator 340 and controls the actuation of the solenoid valve 300. The visual indicator 340 alerts a user that the pressure is below, equal to or above a preset level or outside a threshold pressure range. The measured pressure indicates the status of flow though the irrigation valve. The control unit 380 is configured to transmit the measured pressure data to an irrigation system central controller by modulating the current supply to the solenoid windings 314 to produce a binary sequence of the measured pressure levels. The binary sequence is
transmitted to the central controller where it is decoded into a pressure level data. This allows a user to remotely monitor the inlet and outlet pressure levels of an irrigation valve from the central controller. The user remotely monitors and/or controls the control unit, pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve by sending a command signal from the central controller to the control unit. The command signal comprises command instructions such as actuation instructions and/or a request for pressure data. Optionally, in a two wire irrigation system, the command signal from the central controller to the control unit is encoded and the control unit comprises decoder circuitry to decode the encoded data. The control unit is programmable with a unique predetermined address. Each irrigation valve in an irrigation system has a unique predetermined address associated with the individual irrigation valve. The unique predetermined address may identify the individual irrigation valve in an irrigation system. When a user issues an instruction command to a control unit of an individual irrigation valve the command signal includes the unique predetermined address of that particular irrigation valve. All irrigation valves in the irrigation system receive the command signal, but only the irrigation valve with a matching unique predetermined address set in its control unit acts on the command instructions. The unique predetermined address in the control unit may be removed, deactivated or set to a "zero" address position thereby turning off the feature of having a designated pre- numbered electronic address. In this case the command signal is sent to the control unit of an individual irrigation valve by the central controller selectively activating wires associated with the individual irrigation valve as in a multi-wire irrigation system. Conversely, the "zero" address status of the control unit may be reprogrammed or revert to a unique predetermined address. Figure 4 shows a graph representation of output commands from the control unit 380 to modulate the current supply to the solenoid windings 314 to transmit a binary sequence of the measured pressure levels to a remote central controller. Signal "A" represents the AC voltage supplied to the solenoid valve over time. Signal "B" represents the current supplied by the control unit to the solenoid over time. Signal "C" represents a binary representation
of the electrical current between an off position "1" and an on position "0". The pulse is transmitted to a remote central controller where the binary sequence is captured and decoded into pressure reading data. The solenoid valve 300 is configured to control the flow of fluid through the downstream pilot pathway 310b and from the control chamber 114. The flow rate of fluid through the downstream pilot pathway 310b and from the control chamber 114 is controlled by modulating the actuation of the plunger 316. The actuation of the solenoid valve 300 is controlled with a variable mark-space ratio to control the flow from the of the control chamber. The control unit 380 may be set with adjustable mark-space ratios. Figure 5 shows an example mark/space ratio pulse for the energisation of the solenoid valve. In a first time duration denoted as "A" in Figure 5 the plunger of the solenoid is configured to be positioned in the retracted position denoted as "X" to allow nearly full outflow through the downstream pilot pathway 310b and from the control chamber. In a second time duration denoted as section "B" in Figure 5 the plunger of the solenoid is configured to be in a retracted position for 50% of the time and in the extended position denoted as "Y" for 50% of the time. This means that for 50% of the time during period "B" fluid is flowing through the downstream pilot pathway 310b and out of the control chamber. In a third time duration denoted as section "C" the plunger of the solenoid is configured to be positioned in the extended position denoted as "Y" in Figure 5 to restrict flow through the downstream pilot pathway 310b. The control unit 380 is set with a valve inlet and/or outlet pressure threshold level. The threshold level may be a minimum and/or maximum pressure level. If the measured pressure is below the minimum preset pressure threshold in the control unit, the control unit commands a first mark/space ratio pulse to increase the fluid outflow. If the measured pressure is above the maximum preset pressure threshold in the control unit, the control unit commands a different mark/space ratio pulse to reduce the fluid outflow. In the event that the irrigation system develops a downstream leak then the water pressure of the valve outlet will fall. If the measured outlet pressure drops below the preset pressure threshold level the control unit commands a mark/space ratio pulse to modulate the solenoid to increase fluid outflow. If the desired outflow pressure is not achieved with the
mark-space ratio as at position "A" in Figure 5, the control unit is configured to actuate an alarm and/or activate a visual indicator on the valve. In the event that the irrigation system develops a downstream blockage then the water pressure of the valve outlet would increase. If the measured outlet pressure increases above a maximum preset pressure threshold the control unit commands a mark/space ratio pulse to modulate the solenoid to decrease fluid outflow. If the desired outflow pressure is not achieved with the mark-space ratio as at position "C" in Figure 5, the control unit is configured to actuate an alarm and/or activate a visual indicator on the valve. The movement of the plunger within the solenoid winding creates a pressure pulse in the central water channel which is detected and/or measured by the pressure sensor 320. The pressure sensor 320 is configured to measure the valve outlet fluid pressure between strokes of the plunger during the mark to space pulse cycle and relay the pressure levels to the control unit. By measuring the pressure between strokes of the plunger, the measured pressure levels are more accurate as shock inference by movement of the plunger is avoided. The control unit is set with a predetermined pressure threshold. If the measured pressure level is outside the threshold the control unit commands a mark/space ratio pulse to change the fluid outflow. Figures 6A and 6B show enlarged representations of the plunger 316 of solenoid valve 300 as described in Figure 3. The plunger 316 when located in a downward position creates a gap 350 between a stator 352 and the plunger 316 in the solenoid valve 300 as shown in Figure 6A. When the plunger 316 is moved to an upward position it reduces the gap between a solenoid stator 352 and the plunger 316 and induces a shock pulse represented by arrow A as shown in Figure 6B. The pressure sensor 320 is configured to measure the shock pulse during the movement of the plunger to ensure the plunger is fully operational and is not stuck in one position. Figure 7 shows a graphical representation of the pressure measured by the pressure sensor 320 as the plunger 316 is moved between an upward retracted position and a downward extended position. As previously described in the description of Figure 6 when the plunger is moved to an upward retracted position it reduces the gap between a solenoid stator and the plunger 316 and induces a Shock wave pressure spike represented
by arrow A in Figure 7. When the plunger is in a retracted position the pressure spike falls to a level "PO" which is represented by arrow B. The pressure level "PO" represents the outlet pressure level of the valve. When the plunger is moved to a downward extended position, the gap between a solenoid stator and the plunger increases which causes a sudden pressure drop represented by Arrow C. After a period of time represented by Arrow D, the pressure levels out. The plunger is configured to have an appropriate shape such as a truncated cone shape to heighten the shock pulse. Alternatively or additionally the plunger may comprise a number of vent holes to force out air to heighten the shock pulse. Alternatively or additionally the solenoid valve may include a microphone or audio sensor to measure the noise level produced from the movement of the plunger and components of the valve assembly to ensure that the valve is functional and working. Due to the high frequency of movement of the plunger in the valve, a buffer made from a suitable resilient material such as rubber may be positioned on the plunger to dampen the impact and noise of the plunger modulation. Throughout the specification, unless the context demands otherwise, the terms 'comprise' or 'include', or variations such as 'comprises' or 'comprising', 'includes' or 'including' will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers, but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. Furthermore, relative terms such as", "upward" ."downward", "above", "below" and the like are used herein to indicate directions and locations as they apply to the appended drawings and will not be construed as limiting the invention and features thereof to particular arrangements or orientations. Likewise, the term "inlet" shall be construed as being an opening which, dependent on the direction of the movement of a fluid may also serve as an "outlet", and vice versa. The invention provides an irrigation valve and method of use. The irrigation valve comprises a solenoid valve configured to actuate the irrigation valve. The irrigation valve also comprises at least one pressure sensor configured to measure inlet fluid pressure and/or valve outlet fluid pressure of the irrigation valve and a control unit configured to generate a control signal in response to a measured pressure reading from the at least one pressure sensor.
The improved irrigation valve may improve the performance of an irrigation system by reliably monitoring fluid flow through the irrigation valve and/or controlling the fluid flow through the irrigation valve. Another benefit of the improved irrigation valve is that it may facilitate the detection of faults in the irrigation system by detecting blockages or leaks in the system.
Various modifications to the above-described embodiments may be made within the scope of the invention, and the invention extends to combination of features other than those expressly claimed herein.
Claims
Claims 1. An irrigation valve comprising:
a solenoid valve, the solenoid valve comprising;
a solenoid configured to actuate a plunger to open or close the solenoid valve; at least one pressure sensor configured to measure inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure of the irrigation valve; and
a control unit configured to generate a control signal in response to a measured pressure reading from the at least one pressure sensor;
wherein the at least one pressure sensor is configured to measure the valve outlet pressure when the plunger is in a first position; and
wherein the at least one pressure sensor is configured to measure the inlet fluid pressure when the plunger is in a second position.
2. The irrigation valve as claimed in claim 1 wherein the at least one pressure sensor is configured to communicate measured pressure readings to the control unit.
3. The irrigation valve as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the control unit is
configured to control the actuation of the solenoid valve to adjust the flow through irrigation valve.
4. The irrigation valve as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the control unit is configured to control the actuation of the solenoid valve as a function of the measured pressure reading.
5. The irrigation valve as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the control unit is configured to transmit measured pressure readings to a central controller.
6. The irrigation valve as claimed in claim 5 wherein the control unit is configured to convert the measured pressure readings into a binary sequence prior to transmitting the reading to the central controller.
7. The irrigation valve as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the control unit is configured to compare the measured pressure reading with at least one preset pressure level and/or historical measured pressure reading.
8. The irrigation valve as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the control unit is programmable with a preset pressure level.
9. The irrigation valve as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the control unit is configured to generate a control signal when the measured pressure rises above or drops to or below a preset level.
10. The irrigation valve as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the control signal is configured to actuate the solenoid valve to modulate fluid flow through the irrigation valve when the measured pressure reading is outside a desired range of operating pressures.
1 1. The irrigation valve as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the control signal is configured to actuate an alarm and/or a visual indicator.
12. The irrigation valve as claimed in claim 11 wherein the control signal is configured to actuate an alarm and/or a visual indicator when the inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure is outside a preset pressure threshold range set in the control unit.
13. The irrigation valve as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the control unit is configured to receive a command signal from a central controller.
14. The irrigation valve as claimed in claim 13 wherein the control unit is configured to actuate the solenoid valve and/or pressure sensor in response to the command signal.
15. The irrigation valve as claimed in claim 13 or claim 14 wherein the control unit is configured to decode data encoded in the command signal.
16. The irrigation valve as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the control unit is programmable with a unique predetermined address.
17. The irrigation valve as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the at least one pressure sensor is a pressure transducer.
18. A solenoid valve for an irrigation valve, the solenoid valve comprising:
a solenoid configured to actuate a plunger to open or close the solenoid valve;
at least one pressure sensor configured to measure inlet fluid pressure level and/or outlet fluid pressure level of the irrigation valve; and
a control unit configured to generate a control signal in response to a measured pressure reading from the at least one pressure sensor;
wherein the at least one pressure sensor is configured to measure the valve outlet pressure when the plunger is in a first position and
wherein the at least one pressure sensor is configured to measure the inlet fluid pressure when the plunger is in a second position.
19. The solenoid valve as claimed in claim 18 comprising a body wherein the body
comprises a fluid flow path.
20. The solenoid valve as claimed in claim 18 or 19 wherein the plunger has a hollow channel.
21. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 20 wherein the plunger is in fluid communication with the at least one pressure sensor.
22. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 21 wherein the plunger is in fluid communication with an inlet and outlet of the irrigation valve.
23. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 22 wherein the plunger is in fluid communication with an inlet and outlet of the solenoid valve.
24. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 23 wherein the at least one pressure sensor is configured to provide pressure level measurements to the control unit.
25. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 24 wherein the control signal is configured to actuate the solenoid valve.
26. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 25 wherein the control unit is configured to control the actuation of the solenoid valve as a function of the measured inlet fluid pressure level and/or outlet fluid pressure level of the irrigation valve.
27. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 26 wherein the control unit is configured to transmit measured pressure readings to a central controller.
28. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 27 wherein the control unit is configured to receive a command signal from a central controller.
29. The solenoid valve as claimed in claim 28 wherein the control unit is configured to actuate the solenoid valve and/or pressure sensor in response to the command signal.
30. The solenoid valve as claimed in claim 28 or claim 29 wherein the control unit is configured to decode data encoded in the command signal.
31. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 30 wherein the control unit is configured to receive at least one pressure reading from the pressure sensor and compare the measured pressure reading with at least one preset pressure threshold level and/or historical measured pressure level.
32. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 31 wherein the control unit is programmable with at least one preset pressure threshold level.
33. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 32 wherein the control unit is configured to generate a control signal when the measured pressure rises above or drops to or below a preset pressure threshold level.
34. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 33 wherein the control signal is configured to actuate the solenoid.
35. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 34 wherein the control signal is configured to actuate an alarm and/or a visual indicator.
36. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 19 to 35 wherein the fluid flow path is in fluid communication with a control chamber of an irrigation valve.
37. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 36 wherein the plunger has a truncated cone shape.
38. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 37 wherein the plunger has vent holes configured to force out air to heighten a shock pulse.
39. The solenoid valve as claimed in any of claims 18 to 38 wherein the solenoid valve includes a microphone or audio sensor.
40. A method of monitoring fluid flow through an irrigation valve comprising
providing an irrigation valve claimed in any of claims 1 to 17, comprising:
a solenoid valve configured to actuate a plunger to open or close the solenoid valve; at least one pressure sensor; and
a control unit;
measuring the irrigation valve inlet fluid pressure and/or irrigation valve outlet fluid pressure to monitor fluid flow through the irrigation valve.
41. The method as claimed in claim 40 comprising measuring the solenoid valve inlet fluid pressure and/or solenoid valve outlet fluid pressure to monitor fluid flow through the irrigation valve.
42. The method as claimed in claim 40 or 41 comprising comparing the measured
pressure with at least one preset pressure threshold level and/or a historical pressure level.
43. The method as claimed in claim 42 comprising actuating an alarm and/or a visual indicator when the measured pressure is higher or lower than the at least one preset pressure threshold level and/or a historical pressure level.
44. A method of controlling fluid flow through an irrigation valve comprising
providing an irrigation valve claimed in any of claims 1 to 17 comprising:
a solenoid valve configured to actuate a plunger to open or close the solenoid valve; at least one pressure sensor; and
a control unit;
measuring an inlet fluid pressure and/or outlet fluid pressure of an irrigation valve; generating a pressure measurement signal to the control unit;
analysing the measurement signal in the control unit to compare the measured pressure level with a desired operating pressure threshold range;
generating a control signal from the control unit when the measured pressure level is determined to be outside the desired range of operating pressure threshold to control the actuation of the irrigation valve.
45. The method as claimed in claim 44 comprising measuring the inlet fluid pressure level and/or outlet fluid pressure of the solenoid valve.
46. The method as claimed in claim 44 or claim 45 comprising setting a desired range of operating pressure thresholds and/or a preset pressure threshold level in the control unit.
47. The method as claimed in any of claims 44 to 46 comprising generating a command signal from a central controller.
48. The method as claimed in any of claims 44 to 47 comprising decoding the command signal and comparing the decoded data with at least one command setting in the control unit.
49. The method as claimed in claim 48 comprising actuating the control unit, the at least one pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve when the decoded data matches the command setting in the control unit.
50. The method as claimed in claim 48 or claim 49 comprising programming the
command setting in the control unit with a unique predetermined address which identifies the irrigation valve in an irrigation system.
51. The method as claimed in 50 comprising actuating the control unit, the at least one pressure sensor and/or solenoid valve when the decoded data contains a
predetermined address which matches the unique predetermined address programmed in the command setting in the control unit.
52. The method as claimed in claim 50 or claim 51 comprising comprise deactivating the unique predetermined address in the command setting in the control unit.
53. The method as claimed in any of claims 44 to 52 comprising actuating the solenoid valve to increase flow through the irrigation valve when the measured outlet fluid
pressure of the irrigation valve is lower than the desired range of operating pressure thresholds.
54. The method as claimed in any of claims 44 to 53 comprising actuating the solenoid valve to reduce flow through the irrigation valve when the measured outlet fluid pressure of the irrigation valve is higher than the desired range of operating pressure thresholds.
55. An irrigation system comprising the irrigation valve according to any of claims 1 to 17.
56. The irrigation valve substantially as described herein with reference to the appended Figures 2 to 7.
57. A method for controlling fluid flow through an irrigation valve substantially as
described herein with reference to the appended Figures 2 to 7.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2016302042A AU2016302042A1 (en) | 2015-07-31 | 2016-07-29 | Improved irrigation valve and method of use |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1513535.3 | 2015-07-31 | ||
| GB1513535.3A GB2540952B (en) | 2015-07-31 | 2015-07-31 | Improved irrigation valve and method of use |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| WO2017021718A1 true WO2017021718A1 (en) | 2017-02-09 |
Family
ID=54062970
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/GB2016/052361 WO2017021718A1 (en) | 2015-07-31 | 2016-07-29 | Improved irrigation valve and method of use |
Country Status (3)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| AU (1) | AU2016302042A1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2540952B (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2017021718A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN108697056B (en) * | 2015-10-22 | 2020-10-27 | 艾珂伦公司 | Autonomous irrigation system |
| CN110566699A (en) * | 2018-06-06 | 2019-12-13 | 中国石油化工股份有限公司 | Electromagnetic one-way valve |
Citations (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5228469A (en) * | 1991-08-15 | 1993-07-20 | Otten Bernard J | Fluid control system |
| US20020117214A1 (en) * | 2001-02-28 | 2002-08-29 | Tucker Jeffrey C. | Fluid flow control system, fluid delivery and control system for a fluid delivery line, and method for controlling pressure oscillations within fluid of a fluid delivery line |
| US20060202051A1 (en) * | 2002-06-24 | 2006-09-14 | Parsons Natan E | Communication system for multizone irrigation |
| EP1806049A1 (en) * | 2005-11-18 | 2007-07-11 | S-Rain Control A/S | A two-wire controlling and monitoring system for in particular irrigation of localised areas of soil |
| KR100977438B1 (en) * | 2008-04-03 | 2010-08-24 | 윤경훈 | Irrigation system using smart valve |
| CN203703314U (en) * | 2013-12-02 | 2014-07-09 | 北京中电金墒科技有限责任公司 | Solenoid valve control system |
Family Cites Families (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US20070029401A1 (en) * | 2005-07-22 | 2007-02-08 | Hooshang Kaen | LAN-based sprinkler system |
| US9775307B2 (en) * | 2013-02-11 | 2017-10-03 | Creative Sensor Technology, Inc. | Methods and systems for improved irrigation sensor and control communication |
-
2015
- 2015-07-31 GB GB1513535.3A patent/GB2540952B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2016
- 2016-07-29 WO PCT/GB2016/052361 patent/WO2017021718A1/en active Application Filing
- 2016-07-29 AU AU2016302042A patent/AU2016302042A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5228469A (en) * | 1991-08-15 | 1993-07-20 | Otten Bernard J | Fluid control system |
| US20020117214A1 (en) * | 2001-02-28 | 2002-08-29 | Tucker Jeffrey C. | Fluid flow control system, fluid delivery and control system for a fluid delivery line, and method for controlling pressure oscillations within fluid of a fluid delivery line |
| US20060202051A1 (en) * | 2002-06-24 | 2006-09-14 | Parsons Natan E | Communication system for multizone irrigation |
| EP1806049A1 (en) * | 2005-11-18 | 2007-07-11 | S-Rain Control A/S | A two-wire controlling and monitoring system for in particular irrigation of localised areas of soil |
| KR100977438B1 (en) * | 2008-04-03 | 2010-08-24 | 윤경훈 | Irrigation system using smart valve |
| CN203703314U (en) * | 2013-12-02 | 2014-07-09 | 北京中电金墒科技有限责任公司 | Solenoid valve control system |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB2540952A (en) | 2017-02-08 |
| GB201513535D0 (en) | 2015-09-16 |
| AU2016302042A1 (en) | 2018-02-08 |
| GB2540952B (en) | 2018-05-30 |
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