| 摘要 |
A computer-based controller controls and displays, on a real-time basis, the operation of a large number of watering stations. The controller provides functional statistics, assessment of the system flow characteristics and monitoring of station and system malfunctions. Control and modification of each station is turn-on time during each watering, the time between each station's watering and the accumulated watering time interval are also provided. Soil moisture sensors and a flow meter provide reliable irrigation of large lawns while optimizing water conservation. Prompt response to malfunctions at the system and station level prevents costly catastrophes plaguing prior art irrigation control systems. A scanning irrigation controller permits multiple applications of small amounts of water during the irrigation cycle, resulting in reduced runoff loss and reduced leaching and puddling from oversaturation. A microprocessor-based architecture in the controller interfaces a key pad having a plurality of keys and corresponding key lights, at least one such key and light being provided for each watering associated station. The lights indicate the on/off status of each key in real time without requiring any sequencing operations to be performed for assessing the system status. The key pad also provides clock function keys to input time variables for the system and the stations. A display provides a variety of alpha-numeric messages including time values and errors or malfunctions. A plurality of valves may be operated by the system in a number of automatic modes or may be enabled for manual operation within preselected flow volume constraints.
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