Wireless irrigation control

摘要

Several embodiments provide wireless irrigation control and related methods. In one implementation, an irrigation control system includes a transmitter unit including a controller and a connector to be coupled to an irrigation controller having station actuation output connectors. The controller is can receive an indication that the irrigation controller has activated an irrigation station, and can cause the transmitter unit to transmit a wireless activation signal responsive to the indication. A receiver unit is coupled to an actuator coupled to an actuatable device, such as an irrigation valve, the actuator configured to actuate the irrigation valve to control the flow of water therethrough. The receiver unit receives the wireless activation signal and in response, causes the actuator to actuate the actuatable device. In some implementations, the receiver unit includes a capacitor charging circuit and battery to power the receiver unit and drive and control a latching solenoid.

主权项

1. A method for use in irrigation control comprising:
operationally powering a controller and a wireless receiver of a battery powered receiver unit using a battery, the receiver unit configured to control operation of a latching solenoid configured to control an irrigation valve; charging a capacitor to a first voltage level using a capacitor charging circuit and the battery, wherein the battery has a voltage rating at a second voltage level that is less than the first voltage level, wherein the capacitor charging circuit comprises:
an inductor coupling the battery to the capacitor; anda switch coupled to the inductor and operated by the controller and which controls a flow of current through the inductor; receiving a wireless irrigation control signal at the wireless receiver; and causing, responsive to the wireless irrigation control signal, the capacitor to discharge to provide a pulse to the latching solenoid sufficient to actuate the latching solenoid to control the irrigation valve.