초록 ▼

Simplified battery operated automatic and manually operable valves for use in sprinkler systems and the like are disclosed. The valves are operable from a latching actuator controlled through a microcomputer programmed to turn the valve on and off at a specific time of the day. For purposes of progr

Simplified battery operated automatic and manually operable valves for use in sprinkler systems and the like are disclosed. The valves are operable from a latching actuator controlled through a microcomputer programmed to turn the valve on and off at a specific time of the day. For purposes of programming the system once batteries are in place, the user simply pushes an on/off button at the desired turn on time of the day, at which time the valve will turn on. At the same time, the time of the turn on occurrence will be retained in memory. Similarly a subsequent operation of the same switch will turn off the valve and cause the storage in memory of the corresponding turn off time. Thereafter, the valve will automatically turn on and turn off at those programmed times on each subsequent day, or on such days as are commanded by control of a manually operated switch or as permanently wired. A mechanical override allows the turning on and turning off of a valve independent of the operation of the automatic control to allow operating the valves without disturbing the programming thereof, or of turning off the valve in the event of some failure after the valve is turned on. Alternate embodiments are disclosed.

대표청구항 ▼

For use as part of an automatic valve, the improvement comprising: a pilot operated valve assembly operatively between on and off positions for coupling to a valve body to provide a pilot operated valve operative between said on and off positions, said pilot operated valve assembly being responsive

For use as part of an automatic valve, the improvement comprising: a pilot operated valve assembly operatively between on and off positions for coupling to a valve body to provide a pilot operated valve operative between said on and off positions, said pilot operated valve assembly being responsive to a pilot valve therein; a latching actuator coupled to said pilot operated valve assembly for controlling said pilot valve therein for turning said pilot operated valve assembly on and off responsive to the state of said actuator; and a battery operated controller coupled to said latching actuator, said controller having a first manually operative switch means for turning said pilot operated valve assembly on and for subsequently turning said pilot operated valve assembly off, said controller also having automatic control measn responsive to the time of day said first manually operated switch means was used to turn said pilot operated valve assembly on and off for turning said pilot operated valve assembly on and off, respective at the same times of day on subsequent days.