Fluid control system with autonomously controlled pump

摘要

A plurality of autonomously controlled valves and pumps in a fluid distribution system are interconnected by a data communication network. The system also includes fluid flow sensors which report to the system by way of the network. The autonomous controllers include information as to their neighbors or environment sufficient to determine malfunctions such as a leak or break in an associated path, or flow-related problems, and can take autonomous action. The actions are established by the autonomous controllers regardless of the existence of a connection to the network, so that even if the network connection fails or is damaged, the valve or pump can still respond with predetermined "intelligent" actions. (118) <IMAGE>