초록 ▼

A solid state controller for an automatic irrigation sprinkler system is disclosed. Irrigation information is maintained in and acted upon by solid state logic and control circuit means. Initialization and re-parameterization of the irrigation information is accomplished with a keyboard input in con

A solid state controller for an automatic irrigation sprinkler system is disclosed. Irrigation information is maintained in and acted upon by solid state logic and control circuit means. Initialization and re-parameterization of the irrigation information is accomplished with a keyboard input in conjunction with an alphanumeric display system indicating time of day, day of week, station number, run time associated with each station, and program type associated with each day of the week. A dual power supply is included being run normally from a commercial AC source to provide the proper voltage levels for both the logic and control circuitry and the sprinkler system station valves. Additionally, battery backup is provided. In the event of loss of AC power, the controller uses the battery to maintain only the real-time clock, turning off all other functions to conserve energy. Upon the resumption of AC power, normal operation is continued without loss of time continuity. The solid state controller disclosed contains features not possible with prior art mechanical type controllers.

대표청구항 ▼

Improved automatic irrigation sprinkler system control apparatus comprising: (a) power supply means adapted to be connected to a source of A.C. power for providing a first voltage output pair for operating logic and display circuitry and a second voltage output pair for operating a sprinkler system

Improved automatic irrigation sprinkler system control apparatus comprising: (a) power supply means adapted to be connected to a source of A.C. power for providing a first voltage output pair for operating logic and display circuitry and a second voltage output pair for operating a sprinkler system valve; (b) at least one solid state switch having a power input, a power output, and control input, said power input being connected to one of said second voltage output pair; (c) at least one voltage isolator means for passing a signal having an electrically isolated input and output, said output being connected to said control input of said at least one solid state switch; and, (d) solid state control means having a power input connected to said first voltage output pair and a control signal output connected to said input of said at least one voltage isolator means for maintaining a real-time clock, continuously comparing the real-time clock value to preselected start times, and outputting control signals at said control signal output for preselected durations when ones of said preselected times equal the current real-time value whereby a sprinkler system valve can be connected between said power output and the other of said second voltage output pair and be controlled by said at least one solid state switch in response to signals at said control input.