Abstract: An irrigation system includes a valve that controls the flow of water through a sprinkler head, and a flow sensor that measures the water flow rate through the sprinkler head. In some embodiments, the valve is adjusted until the flow sensor measures a water flow rate that matches a first predetermined water flow rate. This is a first position for the valve. The valve opening is adjusted again by a set amount or until the flow sensor measures a water flow rate that matches a second predetermined water flow rate. This is a second position for the valve. The first and second predetermined water flow rates each correspond to a throw distance the water stream discharged from the sprinkler head will travel. This relationship between the water flow rate and distance is based on empirical data for the sprinkler. A second equation relating the valve opening to water flow rate, for a given pressure, is then used to estimate the water effective pressure.

Abstract: A rotary sprinkler comprises a nozzle head and at least 8 nozzles supported by the nozzle head. The nozzles are configured to discharge water streams at substantially the same velocity, but to different radial distances from the nozzle head. Each water stream produces a spray pattern that overlaps at least one adjoining spray pattern.

Abstract: In a method of controlling a rotary sprinkler, a first angular position and a first watering distance are accessed from memory using a controller. A first electric motor is driven using the controller based on the first angular position. A head comprising at least one nozzle is rotated to the first angular position responsive to driving a first electric motor. A second electric motor is driven using the controller based on the first watering distance. A valve is positioned in a first valve position responsive to driving a second electric motor. Water is discharged through the valve and the at least one nozzle. The head is held at the first angular position for a first time period based on the first watering distance.