| abstract |
A computer-controlled irrigation system (10) comprising a computer (22), a number of remote valves (18), and a plurality of reference sensors (28) installed in the area to be irrigated. The number of reference sensors (28) is less than the number of remote valves (18). The computer (22) has a keyboard for providing a set of initialization data (24) supplied by an operator and means for providing a set of operational data (26) for each of the reference sensors (28). Each reference sensor (28) generates a signal indicating actual moisture level for processing by the computer (22), the computer (22) controlling the plurality of remote valves (18) so that the irrigating fluid (12) is delivered to sprinkler heads (20) associated with the remote valves (18) in amounts sufficient to bring the actual moisture level up to a desired moisture level. Delivery of the irrigating fluid (12) is controlled by the computer (22) based on signals indicating actual moisture levels from the reference sensors (28) without operator intervention. A controlled flow of irrigating fluid (12) is managed by the computer (22) to each of the sprinkler heads (20), in amounts dependent on terrain factors set by the operator, and independent of weather conditions. |