Claims:1. A drip irrigation device (100) comprising:
a housing (102) adapted to be mounted onto a fluid supply conduit (P);
a temperature inducing unit (104), wherein at least a portion of said temperature inducing unit (104) is located inside said housing (102);
a temperature responsive medium (106) accommodated inside said housing (102);
a drip irrigator (108) in fluid communication with said fluid supply conduit (P);
a movable member (110) adapted to be movably connected to said housing (102) and said drip irrigator (108); and
a sensor module (112) adapted to monitor and communicate sensory information to a controller unit (200), wherein the sensory information is at least one parameter relevant to fluid required at respective location in an agricultural field corresponding to said drip irrigation device (100),
wherein
said controller unit (200) is configured to vary power supply to said temperature inducing unit (104) to facilitate a phase change of said temperature responsive medium (106) which in turn facilitates a movement of said movable member (110) with respect to said drip irrigator (108) thereby regulating fluid flow from said fluid supply conduit (P) to said drip irrigator (108) based on the sensory information received from said sensor module (112).
2. The drip irrigation device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensor module (112) is adapted to monitor and communicate, depth and humidity level of soil at said drip irrigation device (100) to said controller unit (200),
wherein
said sensor module (112) comprises a depth sensor, a humidity sensor and a slave controller unit provided as integrated single unit or separate units;
said controller unit (200) is a master controller unit which is in communication with said slave controller unit of said sensor module (112);
said controller unit (200) is configured to vary power supply to said temperature inducing unit (104) through said sensor module (112) in accordance to measured humidity level of soil;
said temperature inducing unit (104) is in electrical communication with said controller unit (200) through said sensor module (112);
said temperature responsive medium (106) is at least wax; and
said temperature inducing unit (104) comprises a heater adapted to heat said temperature responsive medium (106).
3. The drip irrigation device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said drip irrigator (108) includes,
a nozzle head (108H); and
a body (108B) extending from said nozzle head (108H), said body (108B) defines a plurality of fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z), where at least one of said fluid inlet from said plurality of fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z) is adapted to facilitate entry of fluid from said fluid supply conduit (P) to said drip irrigator (108),
wherein
said plurality of fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z) includes a first fluid inlet (108X), a second fluid inlet (108Y) positioned below said first fluid inlet (108X), and a third fluid inlet (108Z), said third fluid inlet (108Z) is positioned below said second fluid inlet (108Y);
a size of said first fluid inlet (108X) is smaller than a size of said second fluid inlet (108Y);
the size of said second fluid inlet (108Y) is smaller than a size of said third fluid inlet (108Z);
said nozzle head (108H) defines at least one fluid outlet (108HP) adapted to facilitate exit of fluid from said nozzle head (108H);
said first, second and third fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z) are positioned in one of an inline manner or a non-inline manner;
said drip irrigator (108) is transversely inserted into said fluid supply conduit (P); and
at least a portion of said nozzle head (108H) is external to said fluid supply conduit (P).
4. The drip irrigation device (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein said movable member (110) includes,
a first portion (110A) adapted to be movably connected to an inner portion of said body (108B) of said drip irrigator (108);
a second portion (110B) adapted to be movably connected to an inner portion of said housing (102) and located above said temperature responsive medium (106), said second portion (110B) is opposite to said first portion (110A); and
an intermediate portion (110C) extending between said first portion (110A) and said second portion (110B),
wherein
said drip irrigation device (100) comprises a first sealing element (114) adapted to be mounted onto said first portion (110A) of said movable member (110), said first sealing element (114) is adapted to restrict fluid flow to said fluid outlet (108HP) of said nozzle head (108H) of said drip irrigator (108); and
said drip irrigation device (100) comprises a second sealing element (116) adapted to be mounted onto said second portion (110B) of said movable member (110), said second sealing element (116) is adapted to restrict fluid flow to said temperature responsive medium (106).
5. The drip irrigation device (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein said drip irrigation device (100) comprises,
at least one resilient means (111) positioned between said fluid supply conduit (P) and said second portion (110B) of said movable member (110),
wherein
where one end of said resilient means (111) is engaged with the fluid supply conduit (P) and another end of said resilient means (111) is engaged with said second portion (110B) of said movable member (110);
said resilient means (111) is at least a spring;
said movable member (110) is adapted to be moved in a downward direction with respect to said drip irrigator (108) due to at least a force exerted by said resilient means (111) onto said second portion (110B) of said movable member (110) thereby moving said first portion (110A) of said movable member (110) away from at least one of said fluid inlet from said plurality of fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z) of said body (108B) of said drip irrigator (108) to regulate fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit (P) to said drip irrigator (108) when said temperature responsive medium (106) undergoes phase change from a solid state to a molten state; and
said temperature responsive medium (106) is adapted to move said movable member (110) in an upward direction with respect to said drip irrigator (108) to facilitate engagement of said first portion (110A) of said movable member (110) with at least one of said fluid inlet from said plurality of fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z) of said body (108B) of said drip irrigator (108) thereby reducing or restricting fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit (P) to said drip irrigator (108) when said temperature responsive medium (106) undergoes phase change from the molten state to the solid state.
6. The drip irrigation device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said controller unit (200) is configured to receive inputs from at least one user interface unit (300), where the input(s) from said user interface unit (300) is at least one of weather condition, plant type, soil type, plant growth stage, root depth of plant, flow rate of said drip irrigation device (100), irrigation method and geographical location, which corresponds to fluid required at respective locations in agricultural field,
wherein
said controller unit (200) is configured to vary power supply to said temperature inducing unit (104) based on inputs received from said user interface unit (300); and
said drip irrigation device (100) comprises an indicating means adapted to indicate whether said drip irrigation device (100) is activated or not activated, where said indicating means is at least one of a visual indicating means and an audio indicating means.

7. A method (20) for controlling fluid flow in a drip irrigation system (10), said method (20) comprising:
monitoring and communicating, by a sensor module (112), depth and humidity level of soil at corresponding at least one drip irrigation device (100), to a controller unit (200);
varying, by the controller unit (200), power supply to a temperature inducing unit (104) of at least one drip irrigation device (100) based on inputs received from the sensor module (112);
phase changing, by a temperature responsive medium (106) when the temperature inducing unit (104) is energized or de-energized by the controller unit (200); and
moving a movable member (110) with respect to a drip irrigator (108) for regulating fluid flow from corresponding fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (108) in response to the phase change of the temperature responsive medium (106).
8. The method (20) as claimed in claim 7, wherein said method (20) comprises,
controlled heating or cooling, by the temperature inducing unit (104), the temperature responsive medium (106) in response to the power supplied to the temperature inducing unit (104) through the sensor module (112) prior to said phase changing, by the temperature responsive medium (106) when the temperature inducing unit (104) is energized or de-energized by the controller unit (200) through the sensor module (112); and
providing, by a user interface unit (300), input(s) related to fluid required at respective locations in agricultural field, to the controller unit (200), where the input(s) from said user interface unit (300) to the controller unit (200) is at least one of weather condition, plant type, soil type, plant growth stage, root depth of plant, flow rate of said drip irrigation device (100), irrigation method and geographical location, where the controller unit (200) is configured to vary power supply to the temperature inducing unit (104) based on inputs received from at least one of the sensor module (112) and the user interface unit (300),
wherein
said moving the movable member (110) with respect to the drip irrigator (108) for regulating fluid flow from corresponding fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (108) comprises,
moving the movable member (110) in a downward direction with respect to the drip irrigator (108) due to at least a force exerted by at least one resilient means (111) onto a portion (110B) of the movable member (110) thereby moving another portion (110A) of the movable member (110) away from at least one fluid inlet from a plurality of fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z) defined on a body (108B) of the drip irrigator (108) to regulate fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (108) when the temperature responsive medium (106) undergoes phase change from a solid state to a molten state; and
moving by, the temperature responsive medium (106), the movable member (110) in an upward direction with respect to the drip irrigator (108) to facilitate engagement of the first portion (110A) of the movable member (110) with at least one fluid inlet from the plurality of fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z) defined on the body (108B) of the drip irrigator (108) thereby reducing or restricting fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (108) when the temperature responsive medium (106) undergoes phase change from the molten state to the solid state.
9. A drip irrigation device (200) comprising:
a drip irrigator (208) in fluid communication with a fluid supply conduit;
a linear actuator (206) in communication with a controller unit (400);
a movable member (210) adapted to be coupled to said linear actuator (206), where said movable member (210) is movably connected to said drip irrigator (208); and
a sensor module (112) adapted to monitor and communicate, depth and humidity level of soil at said drip irrigation device (100), to said controller unit (400),
wherein
said linear actuator (206) is adapted to move said movable member (210) with respect to said drip irrigator (208) thereby regulating fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit to said drip irrigator (208) based on instructions received from said controller unit (400); and
said linear actuator (206) is one of an electric linear actuator or a hydraulic linear actuator or a pneumatic linear actuator.
10. A method (30) for controlling fluid flow in drip irrigation system (20), said method (30) comprising:
monitoring and communicating, by a sensor module (212), depth and humidity level of soil at corresponding at least one drip irrigation device (200) to a controller unit (400); and
moving, by a linear actuator (206), a movable member (210) with respect to a drip irrigator (208) for regulating fluid flow from corresponding fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (208) based on instructions received from the controller unit (400) in accordance to measured humidity level of soil at corresponding drip irrigation device (200),
wherein
said linear actuator (206) is one of an electric linear actuator or a hydraulic linear actuator or a pneumatic linear actuator.
, Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The embodiments herein relate to drip irrigation systems and methods for controlling fluid flow in drip irrigation system in accordance to humidity level of soil at respective locations in agricultural field in real time scenario.
BACKGROUND
[002] Flood and drip irrigation are two major watering methods employed for farmlands. The irrigation method is determined by a nature of crops requiring irrigation, location of the farmland, soil and climatic conditions etc., Flood irrigation is a process of directing water through a channel and the water floods the area around the crop and soaks into the soil. In other way, drip irrigation delivers water or water mixed with fertilizers to crops in a more precise and controlled manner.
[003] Drip irrigation systems typically comprise of a fluid supply pipe which is laid across a farmland, and drip irrigation devices are installed in line with the fluid supply pipe. Conventional drip irrigation systems are equipped with pressure compensated drip irrigation device, also referred to as drippers or emitters that can deliver a certain amount of water to nearby areas based on the fabrication characteristics of the drip irrigation device. Typically, the drip irrigation device will have a fixed watering rate. The watering rate is set in the fabrication process or they can be set manually in the field. This can present problems, however, because industry frequently demands that drip irrigation systems be able to dynamically adjust the amount of water that is delivered to a specific location based on real time information of the water absorbed/transpired by canopy and water evaporation from soil or soil water retention properties. Current approaches to the problem of using drip irrigation device with a predefined watering rate in a drip irrigation system in which dynamic adjustments are required rely on delivery of the same amount of water in every location where the amount of water is defined as the upper amount required by the most water demanding spot. The inherent differences in soil properties and crop characteristics can thus lead to overwatering in many locations based on such uniform water delivery. Potentially, different rate drip irrigation device can be installed in different locations but temporal changes in the irrigation schedule does not permit dynamic adjustments over time.
[004] Usually, in the drip irrigation, an external power source such as an electric pump is used to supply fluid at required pressure. The field personnel switch on the electric pump for a time period and switches off the electric pump based on the assumption of required water supply in agricultural fields. Some irrigation systems may operate, manually or automatically, based on pre-defined agricultural guidelines, for example, indicating that a certain type of crop is to be irrigated for a particular period of time at a particular water flow rate. However, the pre-defined agricultural guidelines may not be optimal or adequate, and insufficient irrigation or excessive irrigation may adversely affect the growth of agricultural crops. Furthermore, excessive irrigation may waste water, and may increase the irrigation cost paid by a crop owner.
[005] Controlling fluid flow from the fluid supply pipes to the drip irrigation devices in accordance to humidity level of soil at respective locations in agricultural field throughout the day and across various seasons is difficult and is one of the challenges posed to the original equipment manufacturers (OEM).
[006] Therefore, there exists a need for drip irrigation systems and methods for controlling fluid flow in drip irrigation system, which obviates the aforementioned drawbacks.

OBJECTS

[007] The principal object of embodiments herein is to provide drip irrigation systems for controlling fluid flow from drip irrigation device(s) in accordance to humidity level of soil at respective locations in agricultural field in real time scenario.
[008] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide drip irrigation systems which optimize water flow in various locations in agricultural field in accordance to water requirement in corresponding locations.
[009] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide methods for controlling fluid flow in drip irrigation system.
[0010] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide drip irrigation systems which are automatic.
[0011] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide drip irrigation systems which reduces overall fluid (water) consumption required in the agricultural field.
[0012] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide drip irrigation systems which has varies water flow rate in accordance to water required at respective locations in the agricultural locations and restricts water flow in locations where water is not required.
[0013] Another object of embodiments herein is to provide drip irrigation system which is easy to install and inexpensive.
[0014] These and other objects of embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with following description and accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0015] The embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, throughout which like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in various figures. The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following description with reference to the drawings, in which:
[0016] Fig. 1 depicts a schematic view of a drip irrigation system, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0017] Fig. 2 depicts a cross-sectional view of a drip irrigation device fitted to a fluid supply conduit, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0018] Fig. 3 depicts a perspective view of a drip irrigator, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0019] Fig. 4 depicts a perspective view of the drip irrigation system, where a plurality of drip irrigation devices are connected in series manner, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0020] Fig. 5 depicts a perspective view of the drip irrigation system, where the plurality of drip irrigation devices are connected in parallel manner, according to another embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0021] Fig. 6 depicts a flowchart indicating a method for controlling fluid flow in drip irrigation system, according to embodiments as disclosed herein;
[0022] Fig. 7 depicts a schematic view of a drip irrigation system, according to another embodiment as disclosed herein; and
[0023] Fig. 8 depicts a flowchart indicating a method for controlling fluid flow in drip irrigation system, according to another embodiment as disclosed herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
[0025] The embodiments herein achieve drip irrigation systems and methods for controlling fluid flow from drip irrigation device(s) in accordance to humidity level of soil at respective locations in agricultural field in real time scenario. Referring now to the drawings Figs 1 through 8, where similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the figures, there are shown embodiments.
[0026] Fig. 1 depicts a schematic view of a drip irrigation system (10), according to embodiments as disclosed herein. Fig. 2 depicts a cross-sectional view of a drip irrigation device (100) fitted to a fluid supply conduit (P), according to embodiments as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the drip irrigation system (10) includes a plurality of drip irrigations devices (100), a controller unit (200) and a user interface unit (300). In an embodiment, each drip irrigation device (100) includes a housing (102), a temperature inducing unit (104), a temperature responsive medium (106), a drip irrigator (108), a movable member (110), a resilient means (111), a sensor module (112), a first sealing element (114), a second sealing element (116) and an indicating means (not shown). For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the drip irrigation system (10) is explained herein below with reference to the plurality of drip irrigation devices (100) connected in one of a parallel manner (as shown in fig. 5) or a series manner (as shown in fig. 4) for use in water scarcity areas and for crops that are sensitive to water such as but not limited to onions, tomato, beetroot, potatoes, fruits (watermelons, banana, etc.,). However, it is also within the scope of the invention to practice or implement the system (10) in which the plurality of drip irrigation devices (100) are positioned in inline manner or any other configuration for use in any other geographical location for irrigating any other type of crops without otherwise deterring the intended function of the drip irrigation system (10) as can be deduced from the description and corresponding drawings.
[0027] The housing (102) of each drip irrigation device (100) is adapted to support the sensor module (112), the movable member (110) and also accommodates the temperature responsive medium (106). The housing (102) of each drip irrigation device (100) is adapted to be mounted onto the corresponding fluid supply conduit (P).
[0028] The temperature inducing unit (104) is adapted to heat or cool the temperature responsive medium (106) in a controlled manner in response to the power supplied by the controller unit (200) to the temperature inducing unit (104) through the sensor module (112). At least a portion of the temperature inducing unit (104) is located inside the housing (102). The temperature inducing unit (104) of each drip irrigation device (100) is in electrical communication with the controller unit (200) through the sensor module (112). The temperature inducing unit (104) comprises a heater adapted to heat the temperature responsive medium (106). In another embodiment, the fluid from the fluid supply conduit (P) or a separate fluid source is circulated around an enclosed temperature responsive medium (106) to facilitate phase change (molten state to solid state or vice versa) of the temperature responsive medium (106). Further, in another embodiment, the temperature inducing unit (104) includes a cooler adapted to cool the temperature responsive medium (106) to facilitate phase change (molten state to solid state or vice-versa) of the temperature responsive medium (106).
[0029] The temperature responsive medium (106) is accommodated inside the housing (102). The temperature responsive medium (106) is adapted to facilitate movement of the movable member (110) with respect to the drip irrigator (108) when the temperature responsive medium (106) undergoes phase change between molten state and solid state. For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the temperature responsive medium (106) is considered to be a wax. It is also within the scope of the invention to use synthetic rubber or foams or any other means which can undergo repeated phase change between solid state and molten state. In another embodiment, the temperature responsive medium (106) is mercury. It is also within the invention to provide any other temperature sensitive material instead of wax.
[0030] Fig. 3 depicts a perspective view of a drip irrigator (108), according to embodiments as disclosed herein. The drip irrigator (108) of each drip irrigation device (100) is in fluid communication with the corresponding fluid supply conduit (P). The drip irrigator (108) of each drip irrigation device (100) is transversely inserted into the corresponding fluid supply conduit (P). The drip irrigator (108) is stationary with respect to corresponding fluid supply conduit (P) and the movable member (110). The drip irrigator (108) includes a nozzle head (108H) and a body (108B). The nozzle head (108H) of the drip irrigator (108) defines at least one fluid outlet (108HP) adapted to facilitate exit of fluid from the nozzle head (108H) of the drip irrigator (108). At least a portion of the nozzle head (108H) of the drip irrigator (108) is disposed external to corresponding fluid supply conduit (P). The body (108B) of the drip irrigator (108) extends from nozzle head (108H). A bottom end of the body (108B) is closed and an opening defined on the bottom end of the body (108B) is adapted to accommodate an intermediate portion (110C), (as shown in fig. 2) of the movable member (110). The body (108B) of the drip irrigator (108) defines a plurality of fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z), where at least one fluid inlet from the plurality of fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z) is adapted to facilitate entry of fluid from corresponding fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (108) of corresponding drip irrigations device (100). The plurality of fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z) includes a first fluid inlet (108X), a second fluid inlet (108Y) positioned below the first fluid inlet (108X) and a third fluid inlet (108Z), where the third fluid inlet (108Z) is positioned below the second fluid inlet (108Y). The first, second and third fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z) is positioned in one of an inline manner or a non-inline manner. A size (diameter) of the first fluid inlet (108X) is smaller than a size (diameter) of the second fluid inlet (108Y). The size of the second fluid inlet (108Y) is smaller than a size (diameter) of the third fluid inlet (108Z). For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, each fluid inlet (108X, 108Y, 108Z) is considered to a hole or groove or slot provided in a circular shape or a non-circular shape.
[0031] The movable member (110) is adapted to be movably connected to an inner portion of the housing (102) and the drip irrigator (108). The movable member (110) is adapted to regulate fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (108) in response to the phase change of the temperature responsive medium (106). The movable member (110) includes a first portion (110A), a second portion (110B) and an intermediate portion (110C), (as shown in fig. 2). The first portion (110A) of the movable member (110) is adapted to be movably connected to an inner portion of the body (108B) of the drip irrigator (108). The second portion (110B) of the movable member (110) is adapted to be movably connected to an inner portion of the housing (102) and located above the temperature responsive medium (106). The second portion (110B) of the movable member (110) is opposite to said first portion (110A). The intermediate portion (110C) of the movable member (110) extends between the first portion (110A) and the second portion (110B) thereby connecting the first portion (110A) to the second portion (110B).
[0032] The resilient means (111) of each drip irrigation device (100) is positioned between corresponding fluid supply conduit (P) and the second portion (110B) of the movable member (110). The resilient means (111) is adapted to move the movable member (110) with respect to the drip irrigator (108) in a downward direction when the temperature responsive medium (106) undergoes phase change from solid state to molten state. One end of the resilient means (111) of each drip irrigation device (100) is engaged with corresponding fluid supply conduit (P) and another end of the resilient means (111) is engaged with the second portion (110B) of the movable member (110). For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the resilient means (111) is considered to be a spring. It is also within the scope of the invention to provide any other type of springs or rubber springs or elastomeric means or any other means in place of spring.
[0033] The sensor module (112) is adapted to monitor and communicate sensory information to the controller unit (200) through a slave controller unit (microchip identifier) of the sensor module (112). For example, the sensor module (112) of each drip irrigation device (100) is adapted to monitor and communicate depth and humidity level of soil at corresponding drip irrigation device (100) to the controller unit (200) through the slave controller unit of the sensor module (112). The sensor module (112) comprises a depth sensor, a humidity sensor and the slave controller unit provided as integrated single unit or separate units. Further, in another embodiment, the sensor module (112) includes a temperature sensor adapted to detect and communicate temperature of soil at corresponding drip irrigation device (100) to the controller unit (200) through the slave controller unit.
[0034] The controller unit (200) is a master controller unit which is in communication with the slave controller unit of the sensor module (112) of each drip irrigation device (100). The controller unit (200) is configured to vary power supply to the temperature inducing unit (104) of at least one drip irrigation device (100) through the slave controller unit of the sensor module (112) to facilitate a phase change of the temperature responsive medium (106) which in turn facilitates a movement of the movable member (110) with respect to the drip irrigator (108) thereby regulating fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (108). The controller unit (200) is configured to vary power supply to the temperature inducing unit (104) of at least one drip irrigation device (100) through the slave controller unit of the sensor module (112)based on the sensory information received from the sensor module (112) of at least one drip irrigation device (100), where the sensory information is a parameter relevant to fluid required at respective location in agricultural field corresponding to respective drip irrigation device (100). The controller unit (200) includes a processing unit, a memory unit, internet of things and communication modules. The controller unit (200) is configured to vary power supply to the temperature inducing unit (104) of at least one drip irrigation device (100) through the slave controller unit of the sensor module (112) in accordance to measured humidity level of soil at corresponding at least one drip irrigation device (100). Further, the controller unit (200) is configured to receive inputs from at least one user interface unit (300), where the input(s) from the user interface unit (300) is at least one of weather condition, plant type, soil type, plant growth stage, sun exposure, distribution uniformity, root depth of plant, drip line diameter of plant, number of drip irrigation device (100) per plant, flow rate of drip irrigation device (100), plant coefficient, seasonality of plants, irrigation method and geographical location, which corresponds to fluid required at respective locations in agricultural field. The controller unit (200) is configured to vary power supply to the temperature inducing unit (104) of at least one drip irrigation device (100) through the slave controller unit of the sensor module (112) based on at least one of inputs received from the user interface unit (300) and the sensor module (112). In one embodiment, the controller unit (200) is a sensor and user interface-controlled controller unit. In another embodiment, the controller unit (200) is a programmable controller unit. In another embodiment, the controller unit (200) is cloud computing-based controller unit. For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the user interface unit (300) is considered to be one of a mobile, tablet, smartphone, laptop, computing device and so on). In another embodiment, the controller unit (200) includes an optimization module which can provide optimized control signal to drip irrigation devices (100) based on inputs from user interface unit (300) and sensor module (112) thereby optimizing the fluid flow from corresponding fluid supply conduits (P) to the drip irrigation devices (100). The controller unit (200) can be configured to switch off the pump when required.
[0035] The movable member (110) is adapted to be moved in a downward direction with respect to the drip irrigator (108) due to at least one of a force exerted by the resilient means (111) onto the second portion (110B) of the movable member (110) and pressurized fluid received by the movable member (110) from corresponding fluid supply conduit (P) thereby moving the first portion (110A) of the movable member (110) away from at least one fluid inlet from the plurality of fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z) of the body (108B) of the drip irrigator (108) to regulate fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (108) when the temperature responsive medium (106) undergoes phase change from a solid state to a molten state.
[0036] The temperature responsive medium (106) is adapted to move the movable member (110) in an upward direction with respect to the drip irrigator (108) to facilitate engagement of the first portion (110A) of the movable member (110) with at least one fluid inlet from the plurality of fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z) of the body (108B) of the drip irrigator (108) thereby reducing or restricting fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (108) when the temperature responsive medium (106) undergoes phase change from the molten state to the solid state.
[0037] The first sealing element (114) of each drip irrigation device (100) is adapted to be mounted onto the first portion (110A) of the movable member (110). The first sealing element (114) is adapted to restrict fluid flow to the fluid outlet (108HP) of the nozzle head (108H) of the drip irrigator (108).
[0038] The second sealing element (116) of each drip irrigation device (100) is adapted to be mounted onto the second portion (110B) of the movable member (110). The second sealing element (116) is adapted to restrict fluid flow to the temperature responsive medium (106). The indicating means (not shown) of each drip irrigation device (100) is adapted to indicate whether the drip irrigation device (100) is activated or not activated by the controller unit (200). The indicating means is at least one of a visual indicating means and an audio indicating means. For example, the indicating means is one of a light, buzzer and display means.
[0039] The slave controller unit (microchip identifier) of each drip irrigation device (100) is in communication with the controller unit (200). In one embodiment, the slave controller unit is embedded (integrated) with the sensor module (112) of the drip irrigation device (100). In another embodiment, the slave controller unit is provided as a separate unit. The slave controller unit of each drip irrigation device (100) is adapted to communicate the sensory information of the sensor module (112) to the controller unit (200).
[0040] Fig. 6 depicts a flowchart indicating a method (20) for controlling fluid flow in drip irrigation system (10), according to embodiments as disclosed herein. For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the method (20) is explained herein below with reference to controlling fluid flow in drip irrigation system in which the plurality of drip irrigation devices (100) connected in one of parallel manner or series manner for use in water scarcity areas and for crops that are sensitive to water such as but not limited to onions, tomato, beetroot, potatoes and fruits (watermelons, banana, etc.,). However, it is also within the scope of this invention to practice/implement the entire steps of the method (20) in a same manner or in a different manner or with omission of at least one step to the method (200) or with any addition of at least one step to the method (20) for controlling fluid flow in drip irrigation system in which the plurality of drip irrigation devices (100) are positioned in inline manner or any other configuration for use in any other geographical location for irrigating any other type of crops without otherwise deterring the intended function of the method (20) as can be deduced from the description and corresponding drawings.
[0041] At step 22, the method (20) includes, monitoring and communicating, by a sensor module (112), depth and humidity level of soil at corresponding at least one drip irrigation device (100) to the controller unit (200).
[0042] At step 22, the method (20) includes, varying, by a controller unit (200), power supply to a temperature inducing unit (104) of at least one drip irrigation device (100) based on inputs received from the sensor module (112).
[0043] At step 24, the method (20) includes, controlled heating or cooling, by the temperature inducing unit (104), the temperature responsive medium (106) in response to the power supplied to the temperature inducing unit (104) through the sensor module (112).
[0044] At step 26, the method (20) includes, phase changing, by a temperature responsive medium (106) when the temperature inducing unit (104) is energized or de-energized by the controller unit (200) through the sensor module (112).
[0045] At step 28, the method (20) includes, moving a movable member (110) with respect to a drip irrigator (108) for regulating fluid flow from corresponding fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (108) in response to the phase change of the temperature responsive medium (106).
[0046] The method step (26) of moving the movable member (110) with respect to the drip irrigator (108) for regulating fluid flow from corresponding fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (108) comprises,
moving the movable member (110) in a downward direction with respect to the drip irrigator (108) due to at least one of a force exerted by at least one resilient means (111) onto the second portion (110B) of the movable member (110) and pressurized fluid received by the movable member (110) from corresponding fluid supply conduit (P) thereby moving the first portion (110A) of the movable member (110) away from at least one fluid inlet from a plurality of fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z) defined on a body (108B) of the drip irrigator (108) to regulate fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (108) when the temperature responsive medium (106) undergoes phase change from a solid state to a molten state; and
moving by, the temperature responsive medium (106), the movable member (110) in an upward direction with respect to the drip irrigator (108) to facilitate engagement of the first portion (110A) of the movable member (110) with at least one fluid inlet from the plurality of fluid inlets (108X, 108Y, 108Z) defined on the body (108B) of the drip irrigator (108) thereby reducing or restricting fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (108) when the temperature responsive medium (106) undergoes phase change from the molten state to the solid state.
[0047] Further, the method (20) comprises providing, by a user interface unit (300), input(s) related to fluid required at respective locations in agricultural field, to the controller unit (200), where the input(s) from user interface unit (300) to the controller unit (200) is at least one of weather condition, plant type, soil type, plant growth stage, sun exposure, distribution uniformity, root depth of plant, drip line diameter of plant, number of drip irrigation device (100) per plant, flow rate of drip irrigation device (100), plant coefficient, seasonality of plants, irrigation method and geographical location.
[0048] In another embodiment, the drip irrigation system (200), (as shown in fig. 7) includes a plurality of linear actuators (206, only one of which is shown in fig. 7), a plurality of sensor modules (212), (only one of which is shown in fig. 7) and a user interface unit (not shown). Each linear actuator (206) is fitted to corresponding fluid supply conduit. The controller unit (400) is adapted to actuate at least one linear actuator (206) from the plurality of linear actuators (206) to regulate water flow from corresponding fluid supply conduit to the drip irrigator (208) based on inputs received from at least one of the sensor module (212) and the user interface unit. In an embodiment, the linear actuator (206) is a hydraulic cylinder. In another embodiment, the linear actuator (206) is a pneumatic cylinder. In another embodiment, each linear actuator (206) is an electric linear actuator. In an embodiment, each electric linear actuator (206) includes an electric motor (206M), at least one rotatable member (206L), at least one movable member (210), a support block (206S) and a plurality of gears (206G). For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the electric motor (206M) is considered to be a stepper motor. However, it is also within the scope of the invention to provide any other type of electric motor in place of stepper motor without otherwise deterring the intended function of the electric motor as can be deduced from the description and corresponding drawings. The rotatable member (206L) is rotatably coupled to an output shaft of the electric motor (206M) through the plurality of gears (206G). The rotatable member (206L) is adapted to facilitate linear movement of the movable member (210) when the rotatable member (206L) is rotated by the electric motor. In another embodiment, the rotatable member is directly coupled to the electric motor (206M) through a coupler (not shown). For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the rotatable member (206L) is considered to be a leadscrew and correspondingly the movable member (210) is considered to be a threaded nut.
[0049] The movable member (210) is adapted to be moved with respect to the drip irrigator (208) to regulate fluid flow from corresponding fluid supply conduit to the drip irrigator (208) in response to the rotation of the rotatable member (206L) upon operation of the linear actuator (206) by the controller unit (400).
[0050] For example, the linear actuator (206) moves the movable member (210) in a downward direction with respect to the drip irrigator (208) to move the movable member (208) away from at least one fluid inlet from a plurality of fluid inlets (208X, 208Y, 208Z) defined on a body (208B) of the drip irrigator (208) to regulate fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit to the drip irrigator (208) based on the instruction from the controller unit (400).
[0051] In another example, the linear actuator (206) moves the movable member (210) in an upward direction with respect to the drip irrigator (208) to facilitate engagement of the movable member (210) with at least one fluid inlet from the plurality of fluid inlets (208X, 208Y, 208Z) thereby reducing or restricting fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit (P) to the drip irrigator (108) based on the instruction from the controller unit (400).
[0052] The drip irrigator (208) includes a fluid outlet (208HP) defined on a head (208H) of the drip irrigator (208). The fluid outlet (208HP) is adapted to facilitate exit of fluid from the drip irrigator (208).
[0053] In another embodiment, the movable member (210) is coupled to the rotatable member (206L) through a linear movable member (not shown), where the linear movable member is linear movably connected to the rotatable member (206L). The linear movable member is adapted to move the movable member (210) with respect to the drip irrigator (208) to regulate fluid flow from corresponding fluid supply conduit to the drip irrigator (208) in response to the rotation of the rotatable member (206L).
[0054] In another embodiment, each electric linear actuator (206) includes an electric motor, at least one rotatable member, at least one linear movable member, a connecting member and a guide member. The rotatable member adapted to be rotatably coupled to an output shaft of electric motor. The rotatable member is a rotating spindle (leadscrew). The linear movable member adapted to be linear movably connected to rotatable member. The linear movable member is at least a threaded nut. One end of connecting member is adapted to be coupled to linear movable member and another end of connecting member is adapted to be coupled to the movable member (210). The connecting member is a linearly movable inner tube. The guide member adapted to guide connecting member to facilitate linear movement of connecting member. The guide member is a stationary outer tube. The electric motor is adapted to move linear movable member which in turn moves the movable member (210) with respect to the drip irrigator (108) through the connecting member thereby regulating fluid flow from corresponding fluid supply conduit to the drip irrigator (208) based on the input sent from the controller unit (400) to a controller unit (slave controller) of at least one electric motor. The linear actuator is a spindle drive linear actuator.
[0055] In another embodiment, the movement of the movable member (110) with respect to the drip irrigator (108) is a vacuum based movement. In another embodiment, metallic expansions such as thermocouples can be used to facilitate movement of the movable member (110) with respect to the drip irrigator (108) to regulate fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit (P) and the drip irrigator (108). In another embodiment, steam or pressurized fluid is used to facilitate movement of the movable member (110) with respect to the drip irrigator (108) to regulate fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit (P) and the drip irrigator (108). In another embodiment, chemical expansions such as foam generation can be employed to facilitate movement of the movable member (110) with respect to the drip irrigator (108 to regulate fluid flow from the fluid supply conduit (P) and the drip irrigator (108).
[0056] Fig. 8 depicts a flowchart indicating a method (30) for controlling fluid flow in drip irrigation system (20), according to embodiments as disclosed herein. For the purpose of this description and ease of understanding, the method (30) is explained herein below with reference to controlling fluid flow in drip irrigation system in which the plurality of drip irrigation devices (200) connected in one of parallel manner or series manner for use in water scarcity areas and for crops that are sensitive to water such as but not limited to onions, tomato, beetroot, potatoes and fruits (watermelons, banana, etc.,). However, it is also within the scope of this invention to practice/implement the entire steps of the method (30) in a same manner or in a different manner or with omission of at least one step to the method (30) or with any addition of at least one step to the method (30) for controlling fluid flow in drip irrigation system in which the plurality of drip irrigation devices (200) are positioned in inline manner or any other configuration for use in any other geographical location for irrigating any other type of crops without otherwise deterring the intended function of the method (30) as can be deduced from the description and corresponding drawings.
[0057] At step 32, the method (30) includes monitoring and communicating, by a sensor module (212), depth and humidity level of soil at corresponding at least one drip irrigation device (200) to a controller unit (400).
[0058] At step 34, the method (30) includes moving, by a linear actuator (206), a movable member (210) with respect to a drip irrigator (108) for regulating fluid flow from corresponding fluid supply conduit to the drip irrigator (208) based on instructions received from the controller unit (400) in accordance to measured humidity level of soil at corresponding drip irrigation device (200), wherein linear actuator is one of an electric linear actuator or a hydraulic linear actuator or a pneumatic linear actuator.
[0059] The method (30) comprises providing, by a user interface unit, input(s) related to fluid required at respective locations in agricultural field, to the controller unit (400), where the input(s) from said user interface unit to the controller unit (400) is at least one of weather condition, plant type, soil type, plant growth stage, root depth of plant, flow rate of said drip irrigation device (200), irrigation method and geographical location, wherein the controller unit (400) is configured to instruct at least one linear actuator (206) based on inputs received from at least one of the sensor module (212) and the user interface unit.
[0060] The technical advantages of the drip irrigation system are as follows. The drip irrigation system is an automatic drip irrigation system which is used for controlling fluid flow from drip irrigation device(s) in accordance to humidity level of soil at respective locations in agricultural field in real time scenario. The drip irrigation system optimizes water flow in various locations in agricultural field in accordance to water requirement in corresponding locations. The drip irrigation system reduces overall fluid (water) consumption required in the agricultural field. The drip irrigation system varies water flow rate in accordance to water required at respective locations in the agricultural locations and restricts water flow in locations where water is not required. The drip irrigation system is easy to install and is inexpensive.
[0061] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modifications within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.