Self-correcting linearly movable irrigation system

摘要

A linearly movable irrigation system, according to the present invention, may include a plurality of interconnected power driven irrigation spans supporting a water supply conduit, which sections are capable of moving over a land area and depositing a controlled amount of water thereon. At one extremity of the irrigation system may be provided a steerable and powered mover unit that accepts water from a water supply system and conducts it to the overhead irrigation pipe under sufficient pressure to cause proper distribution of water through sprinkler devices located along the length of the irrigation conduit. A power driven pump may be supported by the steerable mover unit in order to pressurize or provide boosting pressure for the water received from the water supply. The steerable mover unit is adapted to steerably move in proximity to an elongated reference which may be straight or curved as desired. The steerable mover unit is provided with means for sensing stresses and angular relationship of the irrigation spans relative to the steerable mover unit for providing control signals to the irrigation system that maintain stresses and angular misalignment of the system within an acceptable range. Each extremity of the irrigation system may move at different average speeds which are determined by the control signals for corrective relative movement. The extremities of the irrigation system may also move simultaneously at equal speeds or at different speeds to accomplish controlled movement during irrigation operations.