Abstract: Apparatus and methods include an improved filter and cleaning processes for same. A rotating cleaning element is actuated by vacuum pressure, and relatively precise controls ensure that all portions of the filter's surface are vacuumed cleaned during cleaning cycles. Longitudinal pressure on the rotating cleaning element is balanced to reduce wear and improve performance.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods include an improved filter and cleaning processes for same. A rotating cleaning element (230) is actuated by vacuum pressure, and relatively precise controls ensure that all portions of the filter's surface (203) are vacuum cleaned during cleaning cycles.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a sprinkler apparatus and related methods for the distribution of fluid. The invention preferably includes a nozzle rotatably driven by a pressurized flow of fluid along a fluid path. The invention preferably includes a housing separating a magnetic drag coupling assembly from the fluid path. The coupling assembly preferably includes spaced apart magnets configured to exert an attractive force on each other to rotate one magnet in response to the rotation of the other magnet, and a resistive/drag force to oppose the continuous rotation of the nozzle. Pressure offsetting structures minimize or even neutralize the upward/downward forces that the flowing fluid otherwise would exert on the rotating shaft assembly.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods include an improved filter (203) and cleaning process.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods include an adaptor to establish a flow path through the side of a first piece of tubing (rather than the end of the tubing) into a second piece of tubing or other device. The adaptor includes a threaded head slightly larger than the hole in the side of the tubing into which it is to be inserted, and gripping portions to assist in forcing the threaded head through the opening. After the head has been inserted, a sealing element is tightened to prevent leakage. To join lay-flat tubing to drip tubing, the other end of the adaptor includes an annular barbed end; a sleeve member around the barbed end; and cooperating structures acting between the barbed end and the sleeve to move those relative to each other. Barb structures on the sleeve member cooperate with the barbed end to sealingly engage the drip-tubing end.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods permit splicing or joining a plurality of tubing ends. A central tubular member has a fluid passage therethrough. The tubing ends are mounted over the extremities of the tubular member, and are held in place by a multi-part sleeve around the central member and cooperating detents (on the exterior of the tubular member and on the interior of the sleeve) that pinch or bite the tubing when the sleeve is actuated (such as via a turnbuckle action) to force cooperating pairs of the detents toward each other.

Abstract: An improved apparatus and method are provided for irrigation systems such as automated sprinkler systems. A pre-assembled housing or valve box includes an inlet for receiving water and one or more outlets for distribution of water to other components in the irrigation system, and also includes manifolding and power and valve means for selectively controlling the flow of water from the outlets. Many of the manifold components are integrally molded with each other and provided in modular form so that the system can be relatively compact and can be customized into a variety of configurations. The manifold can consist of or include integrally formed or interconnected valve bases. The electrical power system includes a main terminal box with power lines leading to connectors adjacent each outlet, so that solenoid valves may be readily connected thereto and replaced as necessary. O-rings, non-conducting gel, and similar mechanisms are provided to ensure the water-tightness of the electrical connections.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods include an improved filter (203) and cleaning process.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods permit splicing or joining a plurality of tubing ends. A central tubular member has a fluid passage therethrough. The tubing ends are mounted over the extremities of the tubular member, and are held in place by a multi-part sleeve around the central member and cooperating detents (on the exterior of the tubular member and on the interior of the sleeve) that pinch or bite the tubing when the sleeve is actuated (such as via a turnbuckle action) to force cooperating pairs of the detents toward each other.

Abstract: An improved apparatus and method are provided for irrigation systems such as automated sprinkler systems. A pre-assembled housing or valve box includes an inlet for receiving water and one or more outlets for distribution of water to other components in the irrigation system, and also includes manifolding and power and valve means for selectively controlling the flow of water from the outlets. Many of the manifold components are integrally molded with each other and provided in modular form so that the system can be relatively compact and can be customized into a variety of configurations. The manifold can consist of or include integrally formed or interconnected valve bases. The electrical power system includes a main terminal box with power lines leading to connectors adjacent each outlet, so that solenoid valves may be readily connected thereto and replaced as necessary. O-rings, non-conducting gel, and similar mechanisms are provided to ensure the water-tightness of the electrical connections.

Abstract: A sprinkler head apparatus includes two separately molded members secured together independently of a water volume control member. A number of selectively removable devices that withstand the forces of water in irrigation systems and can be easily removed by the user without additional hardware are situated at the entry point of water outflow channels to provide the user directional control of the water sprayed from the apparatus. Registration elements are provided to ensure the proper alignment between the members of the apparatus. Correspondingly, indicia located at upper and lower external surfaces of the assembled apparatus reduce or eliminate the need to disassemble the apparatus or intermittently test the water spray pattern to ensure proper installation of the apparatus. Preferred methods for assembling the apparatus, for directing the outflow of water, and for aligning the members of the apparatus are disclosed.

Abstract: A spline for joining irrigation tubing includes an elongated body portion. The body is configured to be inserted into and substantially fill a channel formed by aligning an interior channel in a female tubing end and a corresponding exterior channel in a male end. One or more serrations or slots in the body facilitate bending the body into annular channels. The end of the body is tapered to facilitate its insertion, including a taper along its length (such as on the side opposite the serrations), and a gripping portion on the spline further facilitates insertion and removal. Related methods are disclosed.

Abstract: An improved apparatus and method are provided for irrigation systems such as automated sprinkler systems. A pre-assembled housing or valve box includes an inlet for receiving water and one or more outlets for distribution of water to other components in the irrigation system, and also includes manifolding and power and valve means for selectively controlling the flow of water from the outlets. Many of the manifold components are integrally molded with each other and provided in modular form so that the system can be relatively compact and can be customized into a variety of configurations. The manifold can consist of or include integrally formed or interconnected valve bases. The electrical power system includes a main terminal box with power lines leading to connectors adjacent each outlet, so that solenoid valves may be readily connected thereto and replaced as necessary. O-rings, non-conducting gel, and similar mechanisms are provided to ensure the water-tightness of the electrical connections.

Abstract: An improved tubing adapter or coupling apparatus, and combination of same with other fittings, is characterized by an adapter member having a first end including at least one exterior barb for engagement with tubing and a sleeve member operatively positioned around the adapter. In some systems, the tubing or hose may include a fitting at its other extremity, such as a hose end, an ell, or another coupling. The sleeve member of the coupling apparatus preferably includes one or more view ports. The ports can enable the user to visually confirm the tubing has been properly and completely assembled onto the adapter member, and, following initial assembly, to visually ascertain the position of the tubing on the adapter. The apparatus also preferably includes corresponding engagement detents on the adapter and sleeve member, for initial engagement of the retaining member with the adapter member prior to assembly with tubing.

Abstract: A drip irrigation emitter head assembly is described which comprises a body member having a tubular inlet portion adapted to connect with a water supply conduit. The body member includes a circular wall surrounding the tubular inlet portion forming a plurality of passages having open upper and lower ends. A flow control device in each passage forms a constricted emitter orifice. A cap connected to the body member covers both the tubular inlet portion and the surrounding upper ends of the passages. A removable filter retained between the cap and the body member filters water before it enters the passages at their upper ends. Flexible distribution tubes are connected to the lower ends of at least some of the passages in the body member for carrying fluid to preselected locations at their outer ends.

Abstract: A one-piece stabilizing stake adapted to be placed in a preselected ground area for retaining a flexible irrigation conduit. The stake has an elongated body with an upper portion for holding the conduit and an integral lower portion adapted to be driven into the ground. The upper stake portion has first conduit gripping members for holding the conduit end portion in a generally upright, vertical position and a second conduit gripping member on said body extending generally transverse on the body for holding the conduit substantially parallel to the ground area.

Abstract: An improved low volume spray device for an irrigation system comprises upper and lower separately molded plastic members that may be assembled before or after the lower member is installed on a fluid conduit. The lower member, which is secured within the conduit, is molded with a conical deflector portion that receives the main force of the liquid stream from the conduit. An upper head member snaps onto the lower member and has a peripheral series of spaced apart teeth adapted to receive liquid from the conical deflector and separate it to form a uniform spray pattern of radially directed streams. Since the main fluid force is on the conical deflector, fluid pressure cannot act to separate the upper member when in use.

Abstract: A drip irrigation emitter where turbulent flow and angled ribs in a tortuous channel reduce fluid pressure, providing for minimal variations in outlet flow rate from the emitter, irrespective of emitter inlet pressure.