Importance

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Abstract

An electronically operated primary valve actuation assembly is disclosed for use on a fluid valve in an irrigation system that can be run solely by ambient light energy. In operation, water passes from the high pressure side of a fluid valve through a filter assembly which removes particles as small as 0.002 inches. The microfilter assembly also has a magnet which further removes magnetic particles. As water exits the filter assembly it enter a microvalve actuation assembly which has two microvalves with valve inlet holes approximately 0.013 inches in diameter. It is necessary to filter the water to keep the microvalve holes from clogging. The microvalves are arranged such that when one valve is open the other valve is closed and vice versa. The microvalves require only a small amount of force to open or close the microvalve against high water pressure normally encountered in an irrigation system. Opening and closing the two microvalves causes the main fluid valve to open and close. The small force requirements to open and close the microvalves allows for use of a power efficient electromagnetic scheme for operating the microvalve. This in turn allows the fluid valves to be used in an irrigation system that is energized solely by ambient light.

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First Claim