Abstract: The present invention is a method of controlling an irrigation system that minimizes the amount of irrigation water applied with the use of evapotranspiration (ET) to adjust the irrigation controller. By basing the irrigation program on run times which equal a specific amount of water, ET can be used as a percentage to adjust the amount of water applied during an irrigation cycle. By setting a run time to equal 1? of rainfall ET can be used as a multiplier against the run time to make the correct adjustment to provide required water. By setting the amount of water to be applied to 2? or any other amount would need an additional multiplier added to make the proper adjustment. Adjustments for landscape coefficient and distribution uniformity would be placed in run time formula based on use of ET set at 1?. The adjusted run time would be the input into the control system.

Abstract: The present invention includes a unique irrigation sprinkler system with a unique sprinkler head design; a unique method of defining the planted area to be served by the sprinkler head; a unique method for determining when that planted area needs to be watered; a unique way of providing even coverage throughout the planted area when being watered; the ability to use one sprinkler head to individually water multiple, non-overlapping planted areas; a unique way of addressing multiple sprinkler heads in the same sprinkler system; and a unique method for remotely determining the integrity of the sprinkler system.

Abstract: A residential environmental management control system may include a master control and a sprinkler module. The system may include a user interface and/or a power supply. The system may include a housing for the master control and the sprinkler module.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide methods, systems and computer readable mediums storing programs, instructions and/or coding for use in setting up and/or controlling irrigation. A method for use in controlling an irrigation system is provided according to some embodiments that receives a first current moisture loss value, determines a first net moisture loss value since a last irrigation start day utilizing the first current moisture loss value, retrieves a threshold moisture loss value associated with one or more watering programs controlled according to one of a plurality of selectable irrigation control levels that correspond to different ways of associating threshold moisture loss values to watering programs, and defining a current day as an irrigation start day for the one or more watering programs associated with the first irrigation control level when the first net moisture loss value has a predetermined relationship with respect to the threshold moisture loss value.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling an irrigation system having multiple irrigation zones. The apparatus comprises a processor with associated memory, a plurality of valve controllers, an input device and a display screen. Each of the valve controllers is selectively activatable by the processor to provide a control signal to a respective zone valve, if connected thereto. The input device is adapted for inputting to the memory first data designating which of the controllers are available for activation, second data designating how many of the available controllers are to be activated simultaneously and third data designating how many times during a predetermined time period each of the available controllers will be activated. The display device is connected to the processor for displaying the first, second and third data.

Abstract: A system for automating the growing of crops, such as grapevines. Combinations of data from sensors local to a vineyard, and from optional remote stations and sensors, is combined with a control system to accurately control the dispensing of water and chemicals such as insecticides, disease prevention fungicides and fertilizers. The materials are dispensed through a multiple channel conduit which allows conflicting, or incompatible, types of materials to be transported through a common assembly. Sensors are attached to the conduit so that the placement of sensors can occur simultaneously with the laying of the conduit. This approach also ensures correct placement and spacing of the sensors with respect to each plant, or plant area, to be monitored and treated.

Abstract: Modular irrigation controllers and related methods are described herein. In one implementation, an irrigation controller comprises a control unit within a housing, the control unit including a first microcontroller for executing stored irrigation programs. The controller also comprises a plurality of module coupling locations, each electrically coupled with the first microcontroller and adapted to receive one of a plurality of expansion modules. The first microcontroller is configured to detect the electrical coupling and decoupling of an expansion module to a respective module coupling location without removing power to the control unit, the expansion module including a second microcontroller capable of communicating with said first microcontroller and including driver circuitry for actuating irrigation valves, the second microcontroller capable of operating the driver circuitry for actuating said irrigation valves in accordance with control signals received from the first microcontroller.

Abstract: The present embodiments provide methods, apparatuses, and systems for use in remotely accessing irrigation control systems. Some embodiments provide irrigation control systems that comprise a local irrigation system comprising a plurality of satellite irrigation controllers coupled with water delivery devices, and a computer coupled with a distributed network and the local irrigation system.

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 free-standing field irrigation controller is selectively programmed by a personal computer over a radio link. The computer is equipped with software that displays a screen with seven horizontal time bands representing one day each, arranged vertically to display one week's time. Box icons representing watering settings for a plurality of zones can be dragged and dropped onto the time bands, copied and modified thereon as desired, to form a freely selectable watering schedule. Other selectable screens allow odd-days or even-days watering, sophisticated interval watering, global watering time adjustment, and a variety of manual functions. Selectable portions of the main screen can be enlarged as desired. Based on the selected schedule, the computer calculates and displays the monthly cost of water. Selected zones can be temporarily disabled to deal with weather or maintenance issues. A handheld global shut-off and manual watering remote and/or a separate radio-linked computer may be used in field maintenance.

Abstract: A networked delivery system and method for controlling operation of a spraying system includes nozzles for emitting an agrochemical according to a predetermined spray pattern and flow rate; vibration sensors located adjacent an agricultural spray system component to sense vibrations of the agricultural spray system component, such as spray nozzles. The networked delivery system also includes a control area network with a computer processor in communication with the vibration sensors. The processor conveys information to an operator regarding the agricultural spray system component based on the sensed vibrations. The processor also actuates each of the agricultural spray system components such as the spray nozzles to selectively control each of the nozzles or a designated group of the nozzles.

Abstract: Method for optimizing plant production in a cost effective manner. System (100) includes a processor (102) in communication with resource controllers (110, 112) for controlling resources (106, 108) such as, for example, lighting and carbon dioxide. Each resource has a cost that varies temporally or with other factors. The processor implements an algorithm that receives a desired plant production rate and other input, such as operating conditions of the system and environment, and determines amounts of each resource to expend consistent with plant production goals and resource costs.

Abstract: An irrigation management system reduces high peak water use values by utilizing a microprocessor disposed in an irrigation controller to (a) receive peak water use information from a source other than a water supplier (b) receive water use information at a consumer site, and (c) automatically derive a new irrigation schedule that is at least partly based on the information received. The new irrigation schedule preferably includes at least one of a modification in a default irrigation frequency or start time, a reduction in a default irrigation application duration, the use of a rolling-average in the determination of the new irrigation application duration and other changes or modifications to the default irrigation schedule that will provide for the reduction in high peak water use values. Additionally, the microprocessor will display to the water user and/or third parties details on the new irrigation schedule and information received from the water supplier.

Abstract: An appliance control system is described for controlling a plurality of appliances. The system includes a control station located remotely from the appliances and having a control unit for controlling the plurality of appliances, at least one client station being associated with at least one of the plurality of appliances and being adapted for allowing a user to make requests to the control station for using the at least one of the plurality of appliances, actuators connected to the control station and the at least one of the plurality of appliances for receiving control signals from the control station and controlling the at least one of the plurality of appliances, and sensors connected to the water appliance and the control station for recording information about the at least one of the plurality of appliances and providing the information to the control station.

Abstract: Described herein are several embodiments relating to modular irrigation controllers. In many implementations, the irrigation controllers are modular in that various functional components of the irrigation controller are implemented in removable modules that when inserted into position within the controller, expand the capabilities of the controller. Also described are various different types of expansion modules that may be coupled to the modular controller, having as variety of functions and features, as well as related methods of use and configuration of these modules in the controller. In one implementation, an expansion module is provided that includes a microcontroller capable of sending and receiving data communications to and from a main microcontroller of the controller that executed irrigation programs, the data communications relating to an irrigation program.

Abstract: A collector ring for use with a center pivot irrigation system which permits the mounting of a communication device above the span structure. The collector ring also includes a monitoring device which senses the angle or rotation of the span structure with respect to the fixed center pivot structure.

Abstract: An irrigation unit (20) for irrigating an area (12) with a fluid (19) from a fluid source (18) includes a housing (200), a nozzle (220), one or more electronic components (221), and a unit control system (240). The nozzle (220) is directly or indirectly secured to the housing (200) and the nozzle (220) is in fluid communication with the fluid source (18) so that fluid (19) from the fluid source (18) is transferred to the nozzle (220). The unit control system (240) can include an electronic processor (240B) and/or an electronic storage device (240C). The unit control system (240) is in electrical communication with the electronic components (221). The unit control system (240) can process and/or store electronic data generated by one or more electronic components (221). Further, the unit control system (240) can precisely control one or more electronic components (221).

Abstract: An irrigation controller includes inputs for entry or selection of a watering program and a memory capable of storing the watering program. A plurality of station modules are removably received in a plurality of corresponding receptacles. Each station module includes a station module circuit for switching a source of electrical power to open and close at least one of a plurality of valves. When the station modules are inserted into the receptacles a communication path is established between each station module circuit and the processor. The processor is capable of executing the watering program and sending commands to the station module circuits to open and close the valves in accordance with the watering program. A manually actuable mechanism allows a power signal to be applied to each station module circuit after the station modules have been inserted into their corresponding receptacles and the communication path has been established.

Abstract: Described herein are several embodiments relating to modular irrigation controllers. In many implementations, the irrigation controllers are modular in that various functional components of the irrigation controller are implemented in removable modules that when inserted into position within the controller, expand the capabilities of the controller. Also described are various different types of expansion modules that may be coupled to the modular controller, having as variety of functions and features, as well as related methods of use and configuration of these modules in the controller. In some embodiments, authentication procedures are provided for one or both of a modular irrigation controller and an expansion module to determine if they are authorized to operate together.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided to automatically determine plant water requirements and adjust irrigation in order to make efficient use of water. In one implementation, an irrigation control unit comprises a memory storing historical values of a plurality of variables used at least in part in calculating plant water requirements, and at least one input adapted to receive signals corresponding to current values of one or more of the plurality of variables. The unit also comprises a processor coupled to the at least one input and the memory, the processor adapted to determine the plant water requirements at least in part using, for each of the plurality of variables, a current value in the event the current value is available and at least in part using, for each of the plurality of variables, a stored historical value in the event the current value is not available.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide wireless irrigation control systems and related methods. In one embodiment, the invention may be characterized as a wireless irrigation control system comprising: at least one water flow control device; a watertight housing; and a wireless receiver within the watertight housing and adapted to receive irrigation schedule related signals. The system also includes a memory within the watertight housing and adapted to store an irrigation schedule established or modified by the received irrigation schedule related signals; and a controller within the watertight housing and coupled to the memory, the controller adapted to execute the irrigation schedule to cause the water flow control device to operate according to the irrigation schedule. Additionally, a power supply is within the watertight housing and adapted to supply power to at least the controller.

Abstract: Described herein are several embodiments relating to modular irrigation controllers. In many implementations, the irrigation controllers are modular in that various functional components of the irrigation controller are implemented in removable modules that when inserted into position within the controller, expand the capabilities of the controller. Also described are various different types of expansion modules that may be coupled to the modular controller, having as variety of functions and features, as well as related methods of use and configuration of these modules in the controller. In one implementation, an expansion module is provided that includes a microcontroller capable of sending and receiving data communications to and from the a main microcontroller of the controller that executed irrigation programs, the data communications relating to an irrigation program.

Abstract: A smart water timer which includes a water timer, a receiving unit connected to the water timer, and a moisture sensing unit which is in wireless communication with the receiving unit. The smart water timer can sense when the moisture level in the soil is too moist (based on a user setting) and turn off a water supply to a sprinkler as a result A soil moisture sensing unit is placed in the soil in the area to be watered. The soil moisture sensing unit uses a moisture sensing probe and wirelessly transmits a data signal to the receiver, which is connected to the water timer, indicating whether or not the water timer should be permitted to open a water valve.

Abstract: The invention provides a regulator system for regulating the operation of an irrigation system which is responsive to user programmed information. It has a control element for issuing watering control signals to an irrigation system, having at least one of (i) a duration programming device for programming a minimum amount of time and a maximum amount of time for the suspension of watering by the irrigation system, and (ii) a user adjustable temperature programming device for programming a minimum allowed temperature for initiating a watering period by the irrigation system. It further has an irrigation system interface for connecting said control element with the irrigation system. It also has a switch for conveying the control signals from the control element to the irrigation system via the irrigation system interface, for either permitting or prohibiting watering by the irrigation system, responsive to the control signals generated by and received from the control element.

Abstract: A method of method of calculating an ET value for an irrigation area is disclosed. The method includes a weather parameter measurement system collecting at least one weather parameter of a weather parameter area, the at least one weather parameter of the weather parameter area providing a representation of weather outside of the irrigation area. An irrigation area weather parameter is calculated providing a representation of the weather within the irrigation area from the at least one weather parameter of the weather parameter area. The ET value for the irrigation area is calculated from an N-dimensional continuous function using the at least one irrigation area weather parameter, wherein the N-dimensions includes at least a 3-dimensional spatial cube.

Abstract: An irrigation system includes a radio transmitter station that transmits weather prediction information to a geographic region that includes multiple geographic sub-regions. The weather prediction information includes a respective geographic sub-region code for each of the geographic sub-regions for which a weather forecast predicts rain within a predetermined time period. An irrigation apparatus in a particular sub-region activates to water a watering zone at a schedule time. However, if the irrigation apparatus receives the sub-region code for the particular sub-region where the irrigation apparatus is located, the irrigation apparatus does not immediately activate to water the watering zone in one embodiment. The transmitter station may transmit both program content and data content on a common radio frequency signal wherein the data content includes the weather prediction information.

Abstract: A controlling and monitoring system for irrigation of localized areas of soil includes a water pipeline, a plurality of controllable irrigation valves, a plurality of field sensors measuring specific irrigation parameters, and a plurality of localized irrigation control units. Each of the control units has a sensor decoder connected to a specific one of the field sensors and a line decoder connected to a specific one of the irrigation valves. The system further includes a controller and power supply unit that applies a first alternating DC voltage signal to a two-wire cable interconnecting the controller and power supply unit and the control units. The cable provides power from the controller and power supply unit to each of the control units. The controller and power supply unit transmits schedules of instructions to the control units, and receives the irrigation parameters from the control units, through the cable.

Abstract: A system and method for conditioning turf at of one or more golf course areas includes an aeration subsystem having subsurface aeration conduits for aerating the area, and an air blower unit in fluid communication with the aeration conduits configured to provide one of a vacuum in a vacuum mode and air under pressure in a pressure mode in the conduits. A control module is provided which responds to a directive for controlling operation of the aeration subsystem in response to sensing environmental parameters. The control module operates the blower in repetitive cycles of intermittent operation in one of the vacuum mode and pressure mode wherein each cycles includes a blower-on and blower-off mode. The blower-on mode operates the blower units for a first time interval and the blower-off mode ceases operation of the blower units for a second time interval during each cycle.

Abstract: An evapotranspiration (ET) unit includes a first communication link, a processor and a second communication link. The first communication link receives actual ET data from a plurality of environmental sensors. The processor calculates changes to a set of watering schedules of a predetermined watering program of a separate irrigation controller based on the actual ET data. The changes can increase or decrease the frequency and/or length of ON times for selected stations. The second communication link transmits the changes to the irrigation controller.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an irrigation controller, method and software program product for generating valve control signals for energizing a valve. The irrigation controller includes a valve actuation control module selectively coupled each of plurality of control nodes and generating a valve actuation control signal thereon. The valve actuation control signal is a continuous control voltage over a plurality of control signal periods for selectively energizing the selected irrigation valve. Also integrated in the irrigation is a valve chatter module for selectively coupled each of plurality of control nodes and generating a valve chatter control signal thereon. The valve chatter module selectively and, intermittently, energizes the selected irrigation valve. The irrigation controller may further include a remote controller of remotely controlling the irrigation controller.

Abstract: An irrigation control system and method for controlling irrigation based on weather data. Weather data such as wind, temperature, solar radiation, humidity, and rainfall, may be collected at one or more weather stations for a region. The weather data may be compiled on a computer and transmitted to a paging broadcast service. The weather data may then be transmitted by the paging broadcast service to controller interfaces associated with irrigation systems throughout the region. The controller interfaces may adjust irrigation controllers associated with the irrigation systems based on the weather data such that the proper amount of water is applied. This allows the water to be used more efficiently and the health of the landscape to be improved.

Abstract: An irrigation control device has a controller sealed within a watertight housing. The control device also has an antenna, power supply and battery charging device, such as a solar array. The controller receives signals through the antenna and updates one or more watering schedules stored in a memory module, based on the received signals, and generates control signals to execute a watering schedule. The battery charging device recharges the power supply and the irrigation control device requires no external electrical connections for power or control. Control signals are generated in a central controller remote from the rotor, and are preferably transmitted to the rotor antenna through a commercial paging or other type of public broadcast network.

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 number of water related issues concern most communities. Among there are the availability of water, and the ability of the existing infrastructure to efficiently pump and deliver that water without wasting energy. The present invention addresses these issues with respect to landscape water use. A preferred embodiment of the present invention is an add-on module that may be programmed with local watering restrictions including time of use (TOU), and that is connected to the output of any existing landscape irrigation controller. The module is programmed to not allow watering during certain times of day or certain days of the week as established by a local water authority or municipality. Embodiments of the invention also provide methods and apparatus for updating the local watering restrictions, and integrating the present invention into existing controllers.

Abstract: A zone pressure management system and method are provided for use in an irrigation system having at least one irrigation controller for operating multiple irrigation zones each including multiple irrigation devices or heads, wherein a water supply pump is variably controlled to deliver water to each irrigation zone at an individually preset pressure selected to meet zone pressure requirements while minimizing pump energy requirements. The irrigation controller operates a plurality of solenoid control valves or the like associated respectively with the multiple irrigation zones, and is adapted to open these valves typically in a timed sequence for water flow from the pump to the associated irrigation zones. A zone pressure management unit or module monitors the irrigation controller to determine which irrigation zone is in an “on” state, and signals a pump controller for operating the pump to produce a unique and programmably set output pressure for that irrigation zone.

Abstract: An irrigation controller includes a housing for enclosing a microprocessor that stores and executes at least one watering program. The microprocessor has a parallel output bus with a plurality of pin sets for controlling a plurality of irrigation stations. The connection between the controller and the irrigation stations is through a plurality of station modules that are removably coupled, in any desired number, to the various pin sets on the output bus. The number of stations controlled is adjusted by the number of modules connected to the output bus. The controller housing has a pocket for holding a user's manual, which is positioned between the controller housing and a mounting bracket when the controller housing is installed on the mounting bracket.

Abstract: Various embodiments are described in which different irrigation controllers in an irrigation control system have machine code having a same code base. In one implementation, a first irrigation control unit comprises a processor and a medium storing a first set of machine code to be executed by the processor. The first set is based on a portion of source code on which a second set of machine code stored in a second irrigation control unit is based, and the first and second sets not identical to each other. The first and second irrigation control units are in a predefined hierarchical control relationship. In one variation, the first and second control units have at least related operating systems. In another variation, a central controller includes machine code developed from at least a portion of the same source code as machine code in a remote controller for simulation or execution purposes.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides a satellite irrigation controller that allows a user to insert a input/output card into any position in any sequence and be recognized as an input card or an output card. When the correct card type is determined, the card is service according to its specified functionality. In another embodiment, the satellite irrigation controller includes firmware which allows a user to program a range of stations at one time. In yet another embodiment, the satellite irrigation controller provides three user input programs that reduce the amount of input data needed to program the irrigation cycle of an irrigation station.

Abstract: Utilizing the latest microprocessor technology, the digital moisture monitor controller along with its wide applications alternating current conduction moisture sensors and optional X10 multi sensor multi pump controller, controls moisture levels in all soils and all of today's hydroponics mediums.

Abstract: The invention provides a regulator system for regulating the operation of an irrigation system which is responsive to user programmed information. It has a control element for issuing watering control signals to an irrigation system, having at least one of (i) a duration programming device for programming a minimum amount of time and a maximum amount of time for the suspension of watering by the irrigation system, and (ii) a user adjustable temperature programming device for programming a minimum allowed temperature for initiating a watering period by the irrigation system. It further has an irrigation system interface for connecting said control element with the irrigation system. It also has a switch for conveying the control signals from the control element to the irrigation system via the irrigation system interface, for either permitting or prohibiting watering by the irrigation system, responsive to the control signals generated by and received from the control element.

Abstract: An irrigation control device with a controller, antenna, power supply and battery charging device, such as a solar array, all contained within a housing, such as a rotor body. The controller receives signals through the antenna. The controller updates one or more watering schedules stored in a memory module, based on the received signals, and generates control signals to execute a watering schedule. The battery charging device recharges the power supply and the irrigation control device requires no external electrical connections for power or control. Control signals are generated in a central controller remote from the rotor, and are preferably transmitted to the rotor antenna through a commercial paging or other type of public broadcast network.

Abstract: A watering warning device (1) for determining watering intervals for at least one plant to be monitored, having at least one moisture content sensor (2), a timer (6) and an evaluation unit (3) is described. The evaluation unit (3) is designed for determining the time (tG) of the next necessary watering operation for the at least one monitored plant in dependence on a characteristic watering curve (S) over time (t), the watering curve (S) being determinable in a self-learning manner in at least one learning phase from a low moisture value (FGN), measured at a watering time, the high moisture value (FGH), measured after completion of the watering operation following the watering time, and the time (tN) until the low moisture value (FGN) is reached, determined with the timer (6) or extrapolated.

Abstract: A method for irrigating an irrigation region (30) with an irrigation unit (20) includes the steps of subdividing the irrigation region (30) into a plurality of subregions (34), establishing a sequence for irrigating the subregions (34) based on irrigation requirements for the irrigation region (30), and directing a fluid (19) to one or more of the subregions (30) using the irrigation unit (20) based on the sequence. The irrigation regions (30) can be rectangular, square, or hexagonal, and can each have non-overlapping rectangular, square or triangular, similarly-sized subregions (34). The irrigation requirements can include the color of the subregions (34), the elevation of one subregion (34) relative to another subregion (34) and/or other physical conditions. The sequence can be established entirely within a housing (200) of the irrigation unit (20).

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 system for providing irrigation control is provided. The system includes a number of non-local data sources for providing data, a processor and an irrigation system. The processor is configured to receive data from one or more of the non-local data sources and calculate an evapotranspiration (ET) value for an irrigation area that is non-local with respect to the non-local data sources. The irrigation system is located in the irrigation area and configured to receive the ET value from the processor and provide appropriate irrigation control for the irrigation area using the ET value.

Abstract: An agricultural automation system for use in an agricultural area includes an implement caddy carrying a plurality of implements, an elongate transport structure, and a field robot movable along the elongate transport structure. The field robot includes an arm movable in at least one direction different from the movement along the elongate transport structure. The field robot interfaces with the implement caddy for coupling the arm with at least one selected implement, such as a tool or sensor.

Abstract: A sprinkler play system has a central distribution station and a plurality of sprinkler stations. The sprinkler stations may be spaced apart on a lawn. The sprinkler stations are connected to the distribution station with flexible water conduits. Each of the sprinkler stations includes a low voltage solenoid valve. Electrical conductors may be included with the flexible water conduits in order to operate the solenoid valves. A control unit permits selective activation of the individual sprinkler stations.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides a satellite irrigation controller that allows a user to insert a input/output card into any position in any sequence and be recognized as an input card or an output card. When the correct card type is determined, the card is service according to its specified functionality. In another embodiment, the satellite irrigation controller includes firmware which allows a user to program a range of stations at one time. In yet another embodiment, the satellite irrigation controller provides three user input programs that reduce the amount of input data needed to program the irrigation cycle of an irrigation station.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods in which an irrigation management system reduces high peak water use values by utilizing a microprocessor (220) disposed in an irrigation controller (100) to receive peak water use information from a water supplier receive water use information at a consumer site and automatically derive a new irrigation schedule that is at least partly based on the information received. The new irrigation schedule, derived by the microprocessor (220), may include a modification in a default irrigation frequency, a modification in a default irrigation start time(s), a reduction in a default irrigation application duration, the use of a rolling-average in the determination of the new irrigation application duration and other changes or modifications to the default irrigation schedule that will provide for the reduction in high peak water use values.

Abstract: Various embodiments are described in which different irrigation controllers in an irrigation control system have machine code having a same code base. In one implementation, a first irrigation control unit comprises a processor and a medium storing a first set of machine code to be executed by the processor. The first set is based on a portion of source code on which a second set of machine code stored in a second irrigation control unit is based, and the first and second sets not identical to each other. The first and second irrigation control units are in a predefined hierarchical control relationship. In one variation, the first and second control units have at least related operating systems. In another variation, a central controller includes machine code developed from at least a portion of the same source code as machine code in a remote controller for simulation or execution purposes.