초록 ▼

An irrigation system and method is disclosed having a water supply source for providing water under pressure to a plurality of dispensing devices located at spaced locations. The irrigation system and method comprises a distribution conduit grid in fluid communication with the water supply source an

An irrigation system and method is disclosed having a water supply source for providing water under pressure to a plurality of dispensing devices located at spaced locations. The irrigation system and method comprises a distribution conduit grid in fluid communication with the water supply source and defining a closed conduit loop, thereby providing water flow upon demand within the distribution conduit in more than one direction. The distribution conduit grid is composed of arterial members formed in a closed conduit loop for supplying water to a plurality of dispensing conduit members, each dispensing conduit member having its ends interconnected between two spaced locations on the arterial conduit members, thereby providing water flow into the dispensing conduit members from more than one direction. The dispensing devices are mounted on the dispensing conduit members in water supply relation. The dispensing devices are operated between open and closed positions by a water operated pilot valve. The water operated pilot valve is in turn controlled by a moisture responsive switch which is dependent upon air being passed or not passed through a ceramic material whose ability to pass air depends upon its moisture content. In addition, the water operated pilot valve is kept in the closed position by a pressure responsive switch which prevents opening of the water operated pilot valve except when water pressure at the water operated pilot valve is equal to or in excess of a predetermined level.

대표청구항 ▼

A method of irrigation which is responsive to moisture variations within the environment of said system and maintains water pressure within said system at or above a predetermined level by selective operation of portions of said system comprising the steps of: placing one or more dispensing devices

A method of irrigation which is responsive to moisture variations within the environment of said system and maintains water pressure within said system at or above a predetermined level by selective operation of portions of said system comprising the steps of: placing one or more dispensing devices at spaced locations, said dispensing devices being in water supply relation with a water supply source, said supply source supplying water under pressure; connecting a pilot valve to each said dispensing device for operation between closed and open positions; and controlling said pilot valve by operating a device responsive to moisture in the surrounding environment and calibrated to provide opening of said pilot valve only when the water pressure at said dispensing device is equal to or in excess of a predetermined level.