| 摘要 |
Solar powered programmable valves and methods of programming and operation thereof are disclosed. A controller for the valves is provided having one or more solar cells for charging a large capacitor or capacitors upon illumination, which provide energy storage for the continuous powering of a very low current single chip computer controller and for providing actuating power to a latching solenoid of a pilot operated valve. The valve is connected to one or more toggle valves in a serial fashion for controlling one or more devices, allowing a single controller to provide water to more than one zone. Programming of the microcontroller to cause the valve to operate at subsequent times as desired is accomplished by magnetically actuating, through the sealed controller case, "yes" and "no" read switches in response to simple prompts presented on a display. The use of solar power eliminates the need for batteries, and together with the non-intrusive programming, allows the controller to be totally sealed and free of control switches, battery cases and the like which can allow moisture entry and premature failure of the controller. Typical methods of programming the controller are disclosed. Alternate embodiments including an embodiment for multiple valve control are disclosed. |
