Abstract: A system may include a sensor disposed on a parcel of land, watering equipment comprising a watering pump and processing circuity, and a user terminal comprising a user interface. The sensor may be configured to detect moisture conditions. The processing circuitry may be configured to direct the watering pump to operate in accordance with an operational mode. The user terminal may be configured to output system information via the user interface based on sensor data provided by the sensor, control the watering pump to operate in accordance with the operational mode, and delegate operational control of the system to a second user in response to a delegation input provided by a first user via the user interface.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide a system and method for interfacing with an irrigation controller based on rainfall, the system comprising: an interface unit including a housing and a control unit within the housing and configured to: cause an interruption of one or more watering schedules executed by the irrigation controller, which is separate from the interface unit, based on signaling received from a rain sensor including hygroscopic material, when a sensed expansion of the hygroscopic material is above a set rainfall accumulation threshold parameter, the rain sensor being separate from the interface unit and the hygroscopic material being configured to expand in response to being contacted by the rainfall and to contract in response to an absence of the rainfall; and remove the interruption after a completion of a predetermined interval of time after a sensed contraction of the hygroscopic material indicative of a rainfall stop.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning an intake system of an engine includes a pressure-resistant container having a reservoir chargeable with an engine cleaner composition and a discharge orifice for discharging the engine cleaner composition from the reservoir. The apparatus also includes a dispensing assembly including an assembly inlet connectable to the discharge orifice of the pressure-resistant container for receiving the engine cleaner composition discharged from the pressure-resistant container. The dispensing assembly further includes an assembly outlet, and a length of tubing for receiving the engine cleaner composition from the dispensing assembly. The apparatus further includes a timer configured to control a timed valve that, when opened, allows the engine cleaner composition to discharge from the pressure-resistant container. The timer is configured to delay opening of the timed valve for a predetermined period of time after actuation of the timer.

Abstract: A paint system includes a paint unit having a first paint robot and a second paint robot. The first paint robot includes a first robot base and a first robot arm operably mounted on the first robot base. The second paint robot includes a second robot base and a second robot arm operably mounted on the second robot base. When a virtual plane extending in a vertical direction and along a direction of relative movement between an object to be painted and the paint unit is defined as a reference plane, a distance between the first robot base and the reference plane is set to be shorter than a distance between the second robot base and the reference plane. A passage range allowing passage of the second robot arm is provided under the first robot base.

Abstract: Embodiments of a controlled odor emission system and device include an odor presentation port tube and an odor tray securely retained against a platform, a valve housing securable to the platform adjacent the tray, a valve secured within the valve housing and an actuator for moving the valve. By controlling movement of the valve, precise amounts of an odor can be dispensed under programmatic control for training animals. Further, a system incorporating a central control unit and a reward dispenser in communication with an odor emission device to facilitate animal training.

Abstract: A self-energized programmable timer valve is provided in embodiments of this invention that can be used in watering and other systems, such as lawn watering systems and agricultural watering systems. The invention provides one or more components that serve the functions of a clock, a valve and an energizer (e.g., turbine) (i.e., a clock function, a valve function, and an energizing and/or turbine function) to control the flow of media (e.g., water) through the valve.

Abstract: A method for providing wind alerts to a driver includes detecting, with one or more towable item sensors, that a towable item has been coupled to a hitch of a vehicle, detecting a wind condition with one or more wind sensors in response to detecting that the towable item has been coupled to the hitch, and outputting, with one or more output devices, an alert indicative of a high wind scenario when the wind condition is above a wind threshold.

Abstract: An automatic reversible arc assembly for a sprinkler includes a pair of primary stop members circumferentially spaced from each other by a first amount, and a pair of secondary stop members circumferentially spaced from each other by a second amount, different from the first amount. The primary stop members and the secondary stop members are coupled together and define a pivot assembly pivotable between a first position and a second position. A timer module cooperable with the pivot assembly is configured to hold the pivot assembly in the first position for a selectable period of time, after which the timer module enables the pivot assembly to pivot to the second position. The primary stop members are active in the first position, and the secondary stop members are active in the second position.

Abstract: Several embodiments provide cycle and soak irrigation control units, comprising: a housing; a plurality of pairs of actuation line connectors comprising input connectors to couple with output actuation lines of a separate irrigation controller, and output connectors to couple with actuatable devices; a plurality of electrical pathways each coupling a respective input connector to a corresponding output connector and allowing an activation signal to be passed; at least one switch configured to selectively allow or interrupt activation signals to pass to a corresponding output connector; and a timing control circuit controlling the switch, based on an application of an activation signal on an input connector, a duration of a series of cycle-on timings during which the activation signal is emitted from the output connector to activate an actuatable device and soak-off timings during which the activation signal is prevented from being emitted deactivating the actuatable device.

Abstract: A sprinkler system is controlled to ensure that a given geographic area receives sufficient watering without being over-watered. The sprinkler system, capable of being programmed to deliver a desired amount of water in accordance with a desired daily watering schedule, is programmed to deliver the desired amount of water every day unless interrupted. Rainfall information is received, and a signal is sent to interrupt the sprinkler system, causing the sprinkler system to: a) follow a predetermined watering schedule when there is no rain, in which case the sprinkler system delivers the desired amount of water following a predetermined number of days, n, without watering, or b) increase n by 1 or more days if the rainfall information indicates at least one significant rain event capable of providing the desired amount of water, and c) return to a) when n expires.

Abstract: The direct-injection spraying device, in particular for an agricultural vehicle, according to the invention includes a main tank, at least one spray boom, and a circuit connecting the tank to the boom. comprises: The circuit includes a main pump and a bypass for controlling the flow rate in the boom in accordance with the traveling speed of the vehicle. At least one active substance store is connected to the circuit by a metering pump. The device further includes a cyclone mixer capable of receiving, as input, the liquid from the main tank, and the pressurized liquids coming from the active substance store, and capable of eliminating the boom as output.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments relate to a color changer module including an inlet channel, an outlet channel, a duct channel arranged between them to form a fluidic connection, and a first valve for interrupting the duct channel. A docking valve, lies fluidically in series with the first valve and with which the duct channel can also be interrupted.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein describe systems and methods for a drip irrigation system with triangulated drip emitters configured to uniformly distribute wetting patterns. The drip irrigation system may be wrapped with a protective filter fabric for the length of the distribution line prolonging the life of the distribution lines and emitters by preventing soil and root intrusion and protecting the drip tubing from abrasions, cuts, or pinching. The drip irrigation system may be a unified device that is configured to be rolled, placed, positioned, etc. over a desired area, wherein the drip irrigation system may be coupled to a single water inlet and output water at a plurality of uniformly distributed drip emitters.

Abstract: A controller has two irrigation station module connection areas within it and can either accept two irrigation station modules at the same time or one larger module that spans both connection areas. The larger module, however, includes more irrigation station terminals than both of the smaller irrigation station modules combined. Therefore, a greater number of irrigation stations can be connected to the controller when the larger module is substituted for the two smaller modules.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device, to a capsule and to a method for use in personal hygiene, in particular when taking a shower or a bath or when washing hands. According to one aspect of the invention, a device for use in personal hygiene, in particular when taking a shower or a bath or when washing hands, is provided which is designed and adapted such that into the device a capsule, in particular a multi-chamber capsule, can be inserted. Advantageously, the device comprises an appliance for opening the capsule, such as by damaging a capsule wall in order to open the capsule. The appliance for opening the capsule can be adapted to push open or puncture the capsule wall, in particular to pierce a hole into the capsule wall. Advantageously, the capsule is a disposable capsule or an expendable article.

Abstract: Compositions, apparatus, systems, kits, and methods for obfuscating the nucleic acid and/or protein content of an environment.

Abstract: A plurality of receptacles in an irrigation controller removably receive a plurality of modules. At least one station module is configured for insertion into a first one of the receptacles and is connectable to a corresponding solenoid actuated valve through a dedicated field valve line and common return line. The station module includes at least one switching device for selectively providing a first power signal that energizes the corresponding solenoid actuated valve. At least one encoder module is configured for insertion into a second one of the receptacles and is connectable to a multi-wire path for sending encoded signals and a second power signal along the multi-wire path for selectively energizing one of a plurality of solenoid actuated valves connected to corresponding decoder circuits connected along the multi-wire path. A processor executes the stored watering program and controls the station module and/or the encoder module in accordance with the stored watering program.

Abstract: A color changer has a common feed passage that is connected to two or more inlet passages. The common feed passage can be reverse purged in a direction that is opposite a direction of powder flow through the common feed passage. A valve element seals a supply port that connects the inlet passage to the common feed passage to eliminate dead space and form a near bore line seal. The valve element is an elastic material that expands in response to applied compressed air inside the valve element.

Abstract: A volatile material dispenser includes a housing adapted to receive a container that includes a tilt-activated valve stem. The housing includes a resilient retaining structure. The resilient retaining structure is adapted to retain a portion of the container. An electric drive unit is disposed within the housing. The drive unit includes a cam for engaging a portion of the container to actuate the valve stem.

Abstract: Methods and systems control an irrigation system that includes an irrigation controller, a valve actuator, and at least one irrigation sensor connected by a communication circuit. A sensor charging pulse having a temporal duration less than a solenoid actuation time threshold for a solenoid is provided over the communication circuit. The sensor charging pulse charges a charge storage device in at least one irrigation sensor. A series of addressing pulses is also generated over the communication circuit, which indicate a device identifier of at least one irrigation sensor. The series of addressing pulses activate at least one irrigation sensor having the device identifier indicated by the series of addressing pulses such that the activated irrigation sensor provides a sensor signal indicative of an irrigation condition to the irrigation controller via the communication network.

Abstract: A landscape controller includes a housing and a control panel in the housing. The control panel includes a display and at least one manual control that enables a user to enter and/or select a watering schedule. A memory is provided for storing an operational program for carrying out the watering schedule. A processor is connected to the memory and is capable of executing the operational program. A connecting device in the control panel operatively connects at least one feature module to the processor. The controller further includes station control circuitry controlled by the processor that enables the processor to selectively energize a plurality of valves to deliver water to sprinklers in accordance with the watering schedule.

Abstract: A hot water pressure washer with an automatic burner cool-down includes a water inlet assembly, a low pressure water supply assembly, a coil outlet assembly, a control system, and other related components which are required for the functionality of the pressure washer. A shut-down timer of the control system shut down a power source so that the pressure washer can be automatically shut down through the control system when the pressure washer is not operated. Then a cool-down timer of the control system efficiently cools down a heating coil of a burner assembly. The cool-down timer activates the water inlet assembly, the low pressure water supply assembly and the coil outlet assembly through a pair of solenoid valves in order to cool down the heating coil, where the thermal energy within the heating coil is removed from a phase change of water into water vapor and convection.

Abstract: An automatic discharge device includes a housing retaining two containers therein. An actuator arm is attached to the housing and movable between first and second positions. A drive unit is provided for automatically moving the actuator arm into one of the first and second positions in response to a signal from at least one of a timer, a sensor, and a manual switch. The movement of the actuator arm actuates a valve stem of one of the two containers in one of the first and second positions. The actuator arm is adapted to spray fluid disposed in an interior of the two containers.

Abstract: A perfume sprayer comprising a body, a first transmission unit, a second transmission unit and a control circuit is disclosed. The body has a bracket disposed inside the body for receiving a plurality of bottles, and the bottles have releasing units and contain distinct perfume. The first transmission unit is engaged to the bracket. The second transmission unit is disposed at beneath of the bracket, wherein one end of the driving element pivotally connects to a pushing element. The control circuit is coupled to the first transmission unit and the second transmission unit for controlling the bracket rotation in a predetermined time, to achieve function of multi perfumes spray respectively.

Abstract: A sump sprinkler system for use with residential and commercial buildings. The sump sprinkler system comprises a system controller and a sprinkler pump in communication with the system controller. The sump sprinkler system also comprises an intake tube connected to the sprinkler pump, wherein the intake having an end arranged in a sump of a building. The sump sprinkler system also comprises at least one sprinkler connected to the output of the sprinkler pump, wherein the sprinkler is in communication with the system controller. The sump sprinkler system also comprises a water level member in communication with the system controller, wherein the water level member is arranged in the sump.

Abstract: A system for agricultural spraying including a solution reservoir and primary pump for delivering fluid to a plurality of laterally spaced nozzles interconnected by supply conduits. A chemical reservoir and chemical injection pump are interconnected to the output of the primary pump through a mixer. Controllers for the primary pump and chemical injection pump are coordinated to run the pumps a predetermined time to fill each of the supply conduits from the chemical injection pump and primary pump so as to automatically prime the injection system.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for applying an agricultural management material to targeted area. Exemplary agricultural management materials include viscous materials.

Abstract: A liquid atomizer (1) with battery-powered (1) piezoelectric vibration device (4), of the type timed to occur between alternate activation cycles and rest cycles and including a first electronic supply circuit (2) with an impulse current generator (9) at a relatively high voltage and a second supply circuit (5a) of the piezoelectric vibration device (4) at a relatively low voltage, as well as a switch device (10, 11) apt to connect in alternate phases the supply of the piezoelectric vibration device (4)—in a same actuation cycle—to the first circuit and to the second circuit. An actuation method of the atomizer is also described.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide irrigation controllers comprising: a housing; a control unit including a first microcontroller configured to execute irrigation programs and a first set of code; and a removable plug-in device that removably mates with a portion of the irrigation controller and communicationally couples to the first microcontroller, wherein the plug-in device comprises a memory storing a second set of code to replace at least a portion of the first set of code, wherein the plug-in device is configured to re-flash at least a portion of the first set of code allowing a copy of the second set of code to overwrite at least the portion of the first set of code; wherein the first set of code comprises a bootloader that writes the copy of the second set of code over the first set of code with the exception of the bootloader that is not written over.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for starting and stopping a high pressure spray washer having a combustion engine driving a pump to provide high pressure fluid to a spray gun activated by a trigger. Pulling the trigger causes water to flow through the nozzle and pump and a sensor by the pump sends a flow start signal to a control module that activates an electric starter when an engine switch is turned on, thus starting the engine when it wasn't running. When the trigger is released flow to the pump stops and the sensor sends a flow stop signal to the control module. If a predetermined time passes before the sensor detects fluid flow to the pump as occurs when the trigger is pulled, then the engine is shut off. The time can be varied to adjust the time between releasing the trigger and shutting off the engine.

Abstract: A water sprinkler includes a base defining a first cavity and an outflow opening, a conduit assembly positioned in said first cavity and defining a first channel and a second channel, and said first channel defining a first channel inlet and a first channel outlet, and further said second channel defining a second channel inlet and a second channel outlet, and a timer mechanism having a timer inlet and a timer outlet, said timer mechanism being configured to operate in (i) a first mode in which fluid is allowed to pass between said timer inlet and said timer outlet, and (ii) a second mode in which fluid is prevented from passing between said timer inlet and said timer outlet, wherein said first channel outlet is positioned in fluid communication with said timer inlet, wherein said second channel inlet is positioned in fluid communication with said timer outlet, and wherein said base and said conduit assembly are configured so that fluid advancing through the water sprinkler must pass through both (i) said sec

Abstract: Scent dispenser arrangement for dispersing fragrance into a HVAC system includes a flow sensor and a scent disperser assembly having a control module connected to the flow sensor and a canister for emitting a spray which is actuated by the control module. The flow sensor operates in response to air flow and creates an air flow dependent electrical signal transmitted to activate the control module of the spray disperser assembly. The scent disperser and flow sensor are arranged to allow the spray to be disbursed in selective locations in the HVAC system. An embodiment involves two scent disperser assemblies electrically connected in series which operate successively when the liquid in one disperser assembly is depleted or when one disperser assembly dispersers a predetermined number of sprays.

Abstract: A method of operating a dispensing unit includes the step of providing a power source to a dispensing unit that includes a housing having at least two aerosol containers disposed therein and an actuator arm. The dispensing unit activates in response to a minimum threshold of light being sensed by a light sensor. The method also includes the step of selecting a sleep period interval between spray operations.

Abstract: A method of operating a dispensing unit includes the steps of applying a power source to a dispensing unit that includes a container and performing a startup procedure in response to applying the power source. The startup procedure also includes the step of performing an activation sequence that discharges a fluid from the container. The method further includes the step of performing an active mode procedure after the startup procedure without providing a lockout period in between. The active mode procedure includes activating a sensor associated with the dispensing unit, performing an activation sequence that discharges the fluid from the container when the sensor detects sensory input, and performing a transition procedure.

Abstract: A sprinkler system having a sprinkler assembly with at least one sprinkler head having a removable top coupled thereto by an attachment means. A female inlet removably couples the sprinkler head to a swing joint, which is buried below the sprinkler head and connects the sprinkler head to the irrigation feed. The removable top has a plurality of openings for exporting water from the irrigation feed outwardly therefrom. A top surface of the sprinkler head includes crushed stone for stabilizing the sprinkler assembly. The sprinkler system further includes a control system in electronic communication with a valve and control box connected to the sprinkler assembly.

Abstract: The invention comprises devices and methods for providing operational power to a solar-powered irrigation control system. In one aspect, a method includes producing electrical energy from light, storing the electrical energy in a capacitive module, and operating an irrigation controller using the stored electrical energy independent of another power source. In another aspect, a device includes a control system comprising a computer having a programmed irrigation schedule which operates at least one irrigation device, a photovoltaic power module, and a capacitive module connected to said photovoltaic power module to store the electrical energy provided by the photovoltaic power module, where the capacitive module provides power for the control system to operate the at least one irrigation device independent of another power source.

Abstract: A miniature scent generating device includes a scented component, a plurality of granular first materials, and a driving unit. The scented component includes a housing, a chamber located in the housing, a ventilation opening penetrating through the housing to communicate with the chamber, and a vibration unit disposed in the chamber. The first materials are provided in the chamber, and have a first scent. The driving unit is connected to the vibration unit. The vibration unit is controlled by the driving unit to vibrate and produce an airflow of perturbation in the chamber, so as to prompt the first materials to pass through the ventilation opening and discharge out of the chamber to disperse the first scent. The miniature scent generating device has the advantage of unlikely spoiled and readily controlling a release concentration of the scent.

Abstract: A water sprinkler includes a base, a timer mechanism having a timer inlet and a timer outlet, the timer mechanism being configured to operate in (i) a first mode in which fluid is allowed to pass between the timer inlet and the timer outlet, and (ii) a second mode in which fluid is prevented from passing between the timer inlet and the timer outlet, a motor having a motor inlet, a motor outlet, and a drive member, the motor configured to move the drive member in response to fluid passing from the motor inlet to the motor outlet, and a spray member coupled to the motor outlet, the spray member configured to move in response to movement of the drive member, wherein the base includes a first base retention structure and a second base retention structure.

Abstract: Several embodiments provide wireless extensions to an irrigation controller system and related methods of use, as well as other improvements to irrigation control equipment. In one implementation, an irrigation control system includes a transmitter unit including a controller and having a connector to be coupled to an irrigation controller having station actuation output connectors. The controller is configured to receive an indication that the irrigation controller has activated an irrigation station, and is also configured to cause the transmitter unit to transmit a wireless activation signal responsive to the indication. A receiver unit is coupled to an actuator coupled to an actuatable device, such as an irrigation valve, the actuator configured to actuate the irrigation valve to control the flow of water therethrough. The receiver unit receives the wireless activation signal and in response, causes the actuator to actuate the actuatable device.

Abstract: A method of operating a dispensing unit including the steps of applying a power source to a dispensing unit that includes a container and performing a startup procedure in response to applying the power source. The startup procedure includes performing an activation sequence that discharges a fluid from the container. The method further includes the step of performing an active mode procedure after the startup procedure without providing a lockout period in between. The active mode procedure includes activating a motion sensor associated with the dispensing unit, performing an activation sequence that discharges the fluid from the container when the motion sensor detects motion, and performing a transition procedure.

Abstract: A passive cycle skipping valve comprising a pawl and a wheel comprising a first plurality of pins, wherein a distal end of the pawl is configured to engage any of the first plurality of pins where when the second pin is separated from the first pin by at least a threshold pin separation distance, the valve opens and when the second pin is not separated from the first pin by at least the threshold pin separation distance, the valve does not open.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for starting and stopping a high pressure spray washer having a combustion engine driving a pump to provide high pressure fluid to a spray gun activated by a trigger. Pulling the trigger causes water to flow through the nozzle and pump and a sensor by the pump sends a flow start signal to a control module that activates an electric starter when an engine switch is turned on, thus starting the engine when it wasn't running. When the trigger is released flow to the pump stops and the sensor sends a flow stop signal to the control module. If a predetermined time passes before the sensor detects fluid flow to the pump as occurs when the trigger is pulled, then the engine is shut off. The time can be varied to adjust the time between releasing the trigger and shutting off the engine.

Abstract: An automatic discharge device includes a housing having a top portion and a base portion, wherein surfaces defining a recess are provided therebetween for securely holding a container. At least one gear is disposed substantially between the recess and a rear panel of the housing. A drive motor is in association with the at least one gear. An actuator arm is also provided. Activation of the drive motor and the at least one gear provides for movement of the actuator arm between at least one of a pre-actuation position and a discharge position along a path that is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the container.

Abstract: A portable knockdown above ground watering system and method for establishing a new lawn is provided. The system includes a compact water manifold structure comprising a manifold housing having a water inlet in fluid communication with a plurality of water outlets, the manifold structure enclosed in a portable case. A plurality of solenoid actuated valves are connected adjacent to and in fluid communication with each of the water outlets. A plurality of sprinkler heads may be connected in fluid communication to the manifold structure with removably connected outlet hoses.

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring soil and water resources is disclosed herein. Sensors capable of monitoring soil temperature, moisture and salinity are utilized with other sensors capable of monitoring such values as air temperature in order to provide real-time parameters to users/operators of land area.

Abstract: A water flow metering device for use as a handheld or ground-based sprinkler includes a device body having a water inlet, a water distribution head in fluid communication with the device body, and a flow pattern selector. The flow pattern selector is coupled to the water distribution head and meters the amount of water sprayed onto the surrounding area. The flow pattern selector includes indicia that provide flow rate information to an operator. A pressure control valve regulates the flow rate in accordance with the information provided by the flow pattern selector. The water flow metering device may also include a timing mechanism having a timer which closes the water supply after a set period of time. A pressure transducer or other flow rate measuring device may allow the timer to operate the device for a predetermined amount of water distribution in inches per hour.

Abstract: A sprinkler controller includes a central portion and a peripheral switch being moveable in an arcuate path relative to the central portion. The peripheral switch may be a peripheral dial that can be rotated about the central portion. The dial may be rotated to select a particular mode of the sprinkler controller. A display screen is positioned on the central portion. At least two controls are also positioned on the central portion. When a mode is selected by using the peripheral dial, the user may then employ the controls (and the display on the screen) to modify the settings for the sprinkler controller. A method of using the sprinkler controller is also disclosed.

Abstract: A control valve has an inlet, a first outlet and a second outlet. The control valve includes a poppet valve to selectably close one of the first outlet and the second outlet. A pair of diaphragms move from a first position to a second position when fluid is supplied to the control valve to permit the poppet valve to close the first passage when fluid is removed from the control valve. A magnet operably couples a wireless transmitter to a power source when fluid is supplied to the control valve. The wireless transmitter may send a signal to terminate irrigation by the control valve when the control valve is one of a plurality of control valves connected serially to a master valve only by a fluid supply line.

Abstract: An intelligent sensor includes an irrigation related data sensor for sensing irrigation related data and a network processor coupled to the irrigation related data sensor for receiving the irrigation data. The intelligent sensor also includes an interface coupled to the network processor for coupling the intelligent sensor to a communication bus of a peer-to-peer distributed network. The intelligent sensor also includes a memory including instructions for configuring the processor to generate a broadcast message including the irrigation related data. The interface transmits the broadcast message to a destination node coupled to the peer-to-peer distributed network via the communication bus. The destination node can be satellite field irrigation controllers or a control device.

Abstract: A water timer system includes a base assembly and an input and display module. The base assembly includes (i) a conduit structure defining an inlet, an outlet, and a passage extending therebetween, (ii) a first housing defining a first chamber, (iii) a motor located within the first chamber and having an output member, (iv) a gear set located within the first chamber, (v) a valve member movable between a first valve position in which the valve member is positioned to prevent water flow through the passage and a second valve position in which the valve member is positioned to enable water flow through the passage, wherein movement of the gear set causes the valve member to move between the first valve position and the second valve position, and (vi) a receptacle structure defining a first aperture and a second aperture.