TITLE: PRECISION IRRIGATION SYSTEM, METHOD, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM

PRODUCT

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION The present application claims the benefit of the earlier filing date of US provisional application No. 63/216,924 filed in the USPTO on June 30, 2021, the entire contents of which being incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to irrigation systems and methodologies for plant/crop irrigation. More specifically, disclosed embodiments relate to remote control of irrigation systems via transmission of control signaling communicated through flowing, or static, irrigation fluid and/or wirelessly via radio-frequency (RF) transmissions to remote irrigation boxes and/or emitters with unique addresses that, upon reception, enable selective actuation and adjustable control of valves coupled to remote emitters, which emit the irrigation fluid on the subject plant(s).

DISCUSSION OF BACKGROUND

[0002] Potable water scarcity is an ever-growing global problem. As a result, the cost of water of various types, including both potable and non-potable, often used in irrigation, keeps increasing. Global warming and an influx in urban population worldwide further aggravates this crisis, forcing cities to legislate conservation measures. These conservation measures often impose restrictions on the amount of water used and the nature of usage. Landscape irrigation is among the first uses to be minimized or eliminated when implementing water conservation measures.

[0003] For example, along the sides of freeways in the US state of California, some municipalities no longer actively irrigate, enable irrigation, or permit irrigation of landscape plants. However, the dry plant material poses fire hazards. Moreover, over time lack of landscaping vegetation can cause soil erosion, which is problematic in areas of large overpasses, complex interchanges and on and off ramps as well.

[0004] In addition to the present municipal, county and state conservation measures rules and practices, new design standards are emerging in the form of more restrictive building design codes and recommended practice guidelines. For example, in recent decades, the commercial landscape design community has relied on below grade piped irrigation system with conduits emerging above grade in the vicinity of targeted plants. Such pipe conduits typically terminate with fluid emitters wherein some fluid emitters are adapted to control the rate of fluid flow and dispersion pattern of emitted fluid. The fluid flowing through the network of conduits below grade originates at ground embedded boxes, an example of which being illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3. As shown in Figs. 2 and 3, a noncorrosive irrigation box 200 comprising a box 201 and a lid 203 is configured to be embedded in the ground with the lid 203 (not shown) exposed to the exterior. Inside the boxes 200, electronically-actuated valves 205 turn on/off the fluid flow into a plurality of conduits 210. The electronic valves 205 are controlled by a local or remote wired controller(s) 215. Moreover, these electronic valves 205 are hardwired to the wired controller(s) 215.

[0005] Thus, a network of valves 205 in any one irrigation box 200 may typically be configured to correspond to an irrigation zone or irrigation sub-zone. Low voltage control couplings, e.g., wires, 221 usually extend below grade from a remote wired controller 215 (remote location not shown in the figure) or directly from the wired controller(s) 215 to the valves 205 (shown as dashed lines) where they are coupled to actuators included in or coupled to the valves 205. In this way, the valves 205 are controlled and powered via electrical current provided from a remote source.

[0006] Such systems use a computer processor that typically only retains data and instructions for a number of irrigation circuits, time-of-day to turn on remote electronic valves, and the duration the electronic valves are to remain open. Low voltage wire originating at the processor/controller enclosure extends from the enclosure below grade to all of the electronic valves disposed inside the irrigation boxes. When the controller sends a signal to any of the electronic valves, the valves open and allow fluid to flow through the emitter to the plant. The water inside the irrigation system is pressurized and when the electronic valve opens, under pressure the fluid emerges from the conduit’s emitter and irrigates the plant.

[0007] Such conventional systems may also control the components in the irrigation box 200 wirelessly, wherein a main controller (at a remote location) includes a processor and transceiver configured to communicate with, and control, components in the irrigation box 200 via control signals received by receivers at the irrigation boxes (Not shown). However, as recognized by the present inventor, in such conventional applications, the irritation boxes and the associated transceivers require dedicated electrical power sources to at least provide operational power to a receiver included in the controllers 215 and the valves 205 themselves. Moreover, as further recognized by the present inventor, conventional, commercially available irrigation technology has several additional limitations and deficiencies including an inability to control the amount of fluid each plant receives within an irrigation zone controlled by conventional electronic valves. As a result of this lack of precision, one plant may receive too much irrigation fluid, while another may receive too little. Further, as plants grow, experience seasonal changes, or die, the amount of needed irrigation fluid changes. Thus, plants may have different irrigation needs throughout the seasonal growing cycle. Likewise, the optimal amount of water over time, seasonally, and diumally varies from species to species. Moreover, , the more diverse a particular irrigation zone’s plant material is, e.g., including a plurality of plants with a variety of different irrigation requirements, the more difficult it becomes to provide the plants the volume of water that each need. Thus, the present state of the art simply attempts to average the amount of water dispensed by the irrigation system, leaving some plants to be over-watered, while others receive an insufficient amount of water.

SUMMARY

[0008] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a new system, method, and computer program product is described that remedies many of the present irrigation systems’ deficiencies, and thus improves today’s plant irrigation utility.

[0009] Disclosed embodiments provide an irrigation system wherein electrical power for triggering irrigation valve actuation is at least in part generated via flowing fluid within the irrigation system. Control commands that control irrigation valve actuation and irrigation amounts are provided via transmission of control signaling communicated through the irrigation fluid and/or wirelessly to emitters with unique addresses enabling selective actuation of valves coupled to a conduit inside an irrigation box and/or emitters coupled to the conduits ends.

[0010] This simplified summary is not an extensive overview of the inventive concept. It is neither intended to identify key or critical elements of the inventive concept, nor to delineate the scope of the invention. Rather, this non-limiting summary merely presents some concepts of the inventive concept in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that follows. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0011] A more complete appreciation of the disclosure and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0012] Fig. 1 is a system diagram of an irrigation system provided in accordance with a disclosed embodiment.

[0013] Fig. 2 an example of a conventional conduit, control valve configuration and associated irrigation box requiring wired power for operation.

[0014] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a conventional irrigation box.

[0015] Fig. 4A is an overhead view of an exemplary conduit valve configuration provided in accordance with disclosed embodiments.

[0016] Fig. 4B is a diagram showing an arrangement of electronics and an arrangement of valve module elements that control water flow in multiple conduits, according to an embodiment.

[0017] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of an example of a housing of an irrigation zone controller provided in accordance with the disclosed embodiments and including a wireless transceiver antenna that supports wireless transmission/reception of RF signals.

[0018] Fig. 6 is an overhead view of an exemplary conduit valve configuration provided with an irrigation flow controller in accordance with an embodiment.

[0019] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a housing of an irrigation zone controller provided in accordance with a disclosed embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary self-powered control valve module provided in accordance with a disclosed embodiment.

[0021] Fig. 9A is a diagram of exemplary central transceiver circuitry that includes an RF transmitter according to an embodiment.

[0022] Fig. 9B is a diagram of an exemplary central transceiver circuitry that includes an acoustic transmitter.

[0023] Fig. 10 is a diagram of an exemplary irrigation zone controller, or branch control valve, including circuitry to support wireless communication and/or acoustic communication via the irrigation fluid and conduit. [0024] Fig. 11 is an example embodiment of circuitry included in an acoustic communication detector/receiver.

[0025] Fig. 12a is a data structure (packet) of a communication packet used to provide valve control instructions to an irrigation zone controller and/or branch control valve that serves an emitter(s).

[0026] Fig. 12b is an example of an acoustic waveform used to convey the data packet of Fig. 12a.

[0027] Fig. 13 is a flowchart of a control process performed using acoustic signaling according to an embodiment.

[0028] Fig. 14 is a flowchart of a control process performed using RF signaling according to an embodiment.

[0029] Fig. 15 is a flowchart of a valve control operation performed in a branch, or zone, according to an embodiment.

[0030] Fig. 16 is a block diagram of a computer-based system that includes two neural networks used to host artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning processes described herein.

[0031] Fig. 17 is a more detailed block diagram of a computer-based data-extraction network shown in Fig. 16.

[0032] Fig. 18 is a more detailed block diagram of the computer-based data analysis network shown in Fig. 16.

[0033] Fig. 19 is a flowchart of a process for training an AI engine according to an embodiment.

[0034] Fig. 20 is flowchart of another process for training the AI engine according to an embodiment.

[0035] Fig. 21 is a diagram of an embodiment of control circuitry used to implement computer-based control operations for the processor/controllers described in the several irrigation system embodiments described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word "a" or "an" should be understood as not excluding plural elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly recited. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" of the present disclosure are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features.

[0037] The description of specific embodiments is not intended to be limiting of the present invention. To the contrary, those skilled in the art should appreciate that there are numerous variations and equivalents that may be employed without departing from the scope of the present invention. Those equivalents and variations are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

[0038] In the following description of various invention embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, various embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. While some example transmitters, receivers, acoustic transmitters/detectors, valve controllers, power generators, and the like are provided as example embodiments, it should be understood that these components are not mutually exclusive to the irrigation system embodiments in which they are presented. Moreover, it should be understood that these sub components are substitutable among the different embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0039] It should further be understood that the presently disclosed embodiments are explained with reference to the term “plant,” which is meant to encompass any plant that grows for subsequent harvesting or for landscaping purposes; therefore, the term “plant” includes those plants referred to as crops.

[0040] Further, it should be understood that the irrigation fluid may be potable or non- potable water, or any other conventionally known fluid media for irrigation of plants. It is further understood that for best system longevity the water can be stripped of all minerals and contaminants in particularly to the fluid end emitters.

[0041] Disclosed embodiments associate an addressable and self-powered irrigation fluid emitter with a specified plant location, enabling a processor implemented controller to individually control irrigation (e.g., amount of water, rate of delivery of water, time of delivery) of each and all a plurality of plants associated with a plurality of addressable and self-powered irrigation fluid emitters as needed. Moreover, the individual control allows for adjustment of emitter controller over time (e.g., such as to account for changes in demand as the plant ages over time). [0042] In accordance with disclosed embodiments, a controlled irrigation system and method are provided for irrigating plants via an irrigation fluid. As shown in Fig. 1, such a precision controlled irrigation system 100 may include a plurality of interconnected irrigation fluid conduits 105 (sometimes referred to as “branch conduits” to distinguish between main conduits 105’ that provide water and a communication channel between the master controller 102 and irrigation zone controllers 45) each being part of one of a plurality of irrigation zones 110, which also include a plurality of general control valve modules 115 (one or more of which are contained in irrigation zone controller 145, as shown in Fig. 4A). Generally, the general control valve(s) 115 in an irrigation zone controller 145 may have a common with a branch control valve 118. However, the irrigation zone controller 145 may include a plurality of general control valves 115, while a branch control valve is often deployed by itself to server an emitter. In the following description, the features, structure, and operation of a general control valve 115 is the same as that for a branch control valve 118, and so to avoid repeating descriptions, often only one of a general control valve 115, or a branch control valve 118 is described.

[0043] As explained herein in additional detail, in accordance with various disclosed embodiments, each general control valve module 115 (e.g., Fig. 4A) or branch control valve 118 may be addressable and controllable at least through the irrigation fluid conducted through the plurality of conduits 105 in zones 110 and/or through conduits 105’ that feed irrigation zone controllers 145. As will be discussed, the acoustic communication channel within the respective conduits exists when irrigation water (or more generally “fluid” as sometimes another substance may be included in the fluid, such as an herbicide, and/or insecticide, as will be discussed) is at least partially contained in the conduits, although preferably when the conduit is filled with fluid to better support acoustic communication. Additionally, or alternatively, each general control valve module 115, 115a, 115b, and branch control valve 118 may be similarly addressable and controllable via wireless control signaling.

[0044] As shown in Fig. 1, a central or master controller 125 (sometimes referred to as a processor or controller), as will be discussed in more detail with respect to Fig. 21 includes circuitry that may include one or more computer processors configured to control one or more central transceivers 130 to differentially emit at least one of a plurality of control signals (discussed in more detail with respect of Figs. 12a and 12b) as part of the control signaling used to control the control valve modules 115, 118 to enable transportation of irrigation fluid through the conduits 105 in the various irrigation zones 110. It should be understood that the transceiver 130 may be implemented using one or more types of device that can transmit and receive communications. In some embodiments, the transceiver may only be used in an application where reception is necessary, or transmission is necessary, and so only a receiver, or a transmitter are needed to perform the described function. However, for simplicity, the term “transceiver” is often used although not all of the transmit or receive functions are necessary for the particular application. For example, in various embodiments, a transceiver may be implemented as a combined radio transmitter and receiver, acoustic transmitter and receiver, or separate devices. Other devices coupled may include a back-up power unit 140 (e.g., battery backup, storage cell, generator, capacitor, or renewable energy source) and a main power source 135 (e.g., grid-based power). The assembly of the master controller 102 is optionally disposed inside an enclosure protected from the elements.

[0045] Fig. 1 also serves as a visual representation of a “digital map” that specifies a position and address association for each plant or group of plants that is/are the target of irrigation fluid emitted from a particular emitter served by a uniquely addressable branch control valve 118. Moreover, the digital map, which is stored in a database in a computer readable memory is accessible to the central controller 125, and provides in association with each plant a series of irrigation and address parameters including some or all of the following irrigation and addressing parameters: a plant ID, irrigation parameters associated with that plant (e.g., timing, duration, and application rate of irrigation fluid), a plant location, any address of an intermediary control valve(s) (e.g., zone control valve) and/or repeater(s) disposed in an irrigation conduit (or network of conduits) between the master controller 102 and the branch control valve that is adjacent to and services the plant (group of plants), and an address for the controllable branch valve that controls emission of irrigation fluid to that plant (group of plants) The digital map may be saved in a database (e.g., a computer readable look-up-table) in non-transitory computer readable memory that includes all or a portion of the above parameters for each plant or group of plants serviced by an emitter(s) serviced by a branch control valve, and/or a zone control valve, and/or a sub-zone control valve. Thus, the database includes separated irrigation and addressing parameters stored in association with a particular plant (or group of plants) and/or an emitter that services that plant or group of plants. The central controller 125 references the digital map when preparing control commands that it dispatches via wireless, or acoustic communications to individually actuate and operate each control valve, and consequently each emitter. [0046] Moreover, the central transceiver 130 may be implemented using a radio transmitter configured to simply transmit wireless control signaling but not necessarily receive signals wirelessly; however, the receiver aspect of the central transceiver 130 may be implemented using additional or alternative equipment to enable receipt of, for example, acknowledgement messages, requests for retransmission, sensor generated data indicating environmental conditions in one or more irrigation zones, plant condition images indicating size, condition or stage of growth development, etc.

[0047] Still further, it should be understood that, in at least some embodiments, the functionality of the transceiver 130 may be reduced in a mode of operation wherein there is no functionality for receiving data. Still further, in accordance with at least some embodiments, the transmission functionality may be implemented as a simple transmitter, with no receiver aspect provided. Such implementations may be of particular utility by providing economical irrigation solutions that provide precision irrigation wherein there is no need for dynamic adjustment of an amount of irrigation throughout a growing season, e.g., based on size or growth stage development of plants, or in response to environmental conditions changing over such a growing season, e.g., altering the amount of irrigation during a monsoon season.

[0048] Still further, it should be understood that sensing device/s 195 can be coupled to any main circuit, branch circuit and/or detached stand alone in the vicinity of a plant. Such sensor can be wireless communicating data about at least one condition of temperature, humidity, moisture PH levels, fluid and/or air pressure, salts accumulation content, vibration, sound and visual sensors.

[0049] The central controller 125 and central transceiver 130 may be powered by a power source 135, which may be, for example, an Alternating Current (AC) line or Direct Current (DC) power that may be received from a power grid or from some type of alternative energy generating equipment, e.g., solar cells, or hydro plant. Additionally, optionally, the central controller 125 may also be coupled to a backup power source 140, which may be, for example, a battery (e.g., dedicated or from another source such as an electric vehicle) or other energy storage or production device.

[0050] In accordance with at least some embodiments, the plurality of conduits 105’, 105 include one or more networks of below grade irrigation pipes, as well as ground embedded irrigation zone controllers 145 associated with each one of the plurality of irrigation zones.

In such particular implementations, each irrigation zone controller 145 may have at least one “main” conduit 105’ for irrigation fluid inlet and one or more irrigation zone conduits (branch conduits 105) for fluid outlet. Thus, although Fig. 1 illustrates a one-to-one relationship between irrigation zone controllers 145 and zones 110, there may be a one-to-plurality relationship wherein there is one irrigation zone controller 145 that serves multiple zones 110 via multiple general control valves 115, and thus sometimes referred to as “sub-zones”.

[0051] An irrigation zone 110 served by an irrigation zone controller 145 may include multiple branch control valves 118 that control corresponding emitters. The irrigation zone controller 145 may be communicatively coupled to the central controller 125, to at least one branch control valve 118, which controls water flow to an emitter, or to the central controller 125 and the at least one emitter. The communication can be single or bi-directional. For example, zone 1 shows multiple branch control valves 118, each with a distinct address, and each controlling water flow with an associated emitter. In Fig. 1, the address shown is numeric however it can also be alphanumeric, or another convention as along as it is uniquely addressable. The branch control valve 118 may include a look up table that converts a data from an address field in a communication message to another address (e.g., factor set address) that is used by that branch control valve 118 to determine if the communication message is intended for it, or another branch control valve 118. The exemplary address numbers shown in Fig. 1 are ordered such that the numeric sequence first identifies the zone (1), then the emitter number (01, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, and 10) and then the number identifies the plant material type (51, 54, 51, 03, 08, 50, 08, 16, 51 and 20).

[0052] Thus, for example, as shown in Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B, each irrigation zone controller 145 may have a “main” conduit 105’ for irrigation fluid inlet 120 and one or more irrigation zone conduits 105 for fluid outlet, wherein the conduits are separated by a manifold with a single general control valve module 115 coupled to the “main” conduit 105’, further discussed herein with reference to Fig. 6 and similarly for a branch control valve 118 as shown in Fig. 8.

[0053] As shown in Fig. 4B, the irrigation zone controller 145 may include two general control valves 115a and 115b. Additional general control valves may be included as well. General control valve 115a controls a flow of irrigation fluid in a first conduit (conduit 1) and general control valve 115b controls a flow of irrigation fluid in a second conduit (conduit 2). The structures of general control valves 115a, and 115b are the same (and also consistent with the structure of a branch control valve 118 discussed later), and may have their own generators 240, transceivers 155, power management circuitry 250 and processor/controller 160 (also described in more detail in Figure 21 as element 805), power storage device 140, or they may share these components. In the present embodiment, a separate generator 180 is provided for each general control valve 115a, and 115b, but common transceiver 155, power management circuitry 250 and processor/controller 160 are shared between them. Based on control signals received via antenna 150 and transceiver 155, the processor/controller 160 independently controls valve settings for valve 180 in each of control valve 115a, and 115b so as to control irrigation fluid flowing from main conduit 105’ to branch conduit 105. As will be discussed in more detail with respect to Fig. 8, a flow of irrigation fluid interacts with impeller 185, causing the impeller 185 to rotate and provide a mechanical force that can be harnessed to turn a rotor of generator 240 so as to produce electricity. The generated electricity is stored in power storage device 140 (e.g., a rechargeable battery) to provide operational power to the above described and other electronics.

[0054] In implementation, when the precision irrigation system 100 is utilizing wireless control and data signaling to control the general control valve module 115 of an irrigation zone controller 145, the exterior of the irrigation zone controller may appear as shown in Fig. 5. As shown a whip antenna 150 is coupled to the exterior of the housing (e.g., zone controller lid 103) for the irrigation zone controller 145 to improve transmission and/or reception functionality (i.e., avoid attenuation of RF energy) for the one or more general control valve modules 115 included in the housing of the irrigation zone controller 145. Alternatively, the zone controller lid 103 may be made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene or other suitable material that is impervious to water, but exhibits low attenuation to RF signals, and thus accommodates an antenna within housing. Alternatively, or in addition to, a patch antenna, or a patch antenna array 150a may also be used and disposed on the lid 103 (exterior surface, interior surface, or integrally disposed). The whip antenna 150 is flexible and so even if machinery rolls over the irrigation zone controller 145, the whip antenna 150 will resiliently return to its upright position. However, the planar profile of the patch antenna/array 150a will avoid deflection and thus may be more suitable in certain installations. The patch antenna/array 150a includes matching circuitry with controllable phase delay elements that allows for controllable directivity of the antenna pattern, which in turn allows for favorable link budget parameters when communicating in particular directi on(s). The irrigation zone controller 145 may include one or both the whip antenna 150, patch antenna 150a, or another antenna e.g., stub, or blade antenna. [0055] Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 7, the irrigation zone controller 145 may optionally include an antenna 150, 150a, for example, when control signaling is provided using the irrigation fluid as the communication media for transporting the control signal (explained herein) as acoustic energy.

[0056] In addition, a photovoltaic panel 108 (Fig. 5) may be coupled to the exterior face of the lid 103 of the irrigation zone controller 145 to convert light from the sun into electricity. The photovoltaic panel 108 may also be remotely located with weatherproof electrical conductors coupled to the irrigation zone controller 145. The use of power derived from solar energy can be supplemental to power generated by the irrigation system’s fluid dynamics (as discussed in more detail with respect to Fig. 8) or in conjunction with power management circuitry 250 (discussed in more detail with respect to Fig. 10) disposed inside the irrigation zone controllerl45.

[0057] Returning to the various options for addressability and control provided in accordance with the disclosed embodiments, Fig. 6 shows an additional implementation of an irrigation zone controller 145 that may include a main conduit 105’ for irrigation fluid ingress that fans out into a plurality of branch conduits 105, each controlled by respective general control valve modules 115 to provide a plurality of separately controllable irrigation fluid conduits via the separately addressable and controllable general control valve modules 115. [0058] Thus, collectively, Figs. 4 and 6 illustrate different, but not inconsistent, conduit architectures that fulfill different levels of precision for delivering fluid irrigation to one or more irrigation zones. Therefore, it should be understood that the two illustrated alternatives could be used separately or in conjunction with another to provide precision fluid irrigation through addressability and control. In this way, a single irrigation zone controller 145 may utilize multiple general control valves 115 to provide a one to plurality relationship wherein there is one irrigation zone controller 145 corresponding to multiple zones 110 or to what may be considered multiple sub-zones.

[0059] In such an implementation, and in association with the various embodiments, a plurality of in ground or above grade conduits may be used to implement the plurality of main conduits 105’, as well as each branch conduit 105 that terminates in a branch control valve module 118 (Fig. 8), which may be positioned in proximity to or the vicinity of plants for the purpose of irrigation.

[0060] In an alternate implementation, more typical to an irrigation zone where plants require the same irrigation regime, a general control valve 115 inside the irrigation zone controller! 45 may control irrigation fluid inside at least one branch conduit 105 forgoing the branch control valve 118 coupled to the conduit 105 end at the vicinity of the plant.

[0061] Although not shown in Fig. 8, discussed below, it should be understood that an outlet of a control valve module 118 could be coupled to conventionally available, sprinkler heads, drip hoses or other known fluid irrigation components for transporting irrigation fluid in a dispersed or targeted manner.

[0062] To enable the irrigation system’s central controller 125 (Fig. 1) to discern which plant needs to be irrigated, when and for what duration, the circuitry in the central controller 125 may be configured to communicate with each individual general control valve 115 and/or each individual branch control valve 118. As a result, as shown in Fig. 8, each individual branch control valve 118 (which may have a same structure as each general control valve 115) may include a communication interface 165 that may include a communications transceiver 155 and a processor 160 that are configured to cooperate to receive control signaling from the central controller 125 via the central transceiver 130 and/or a transceiver 120 located inside an irrigation box 145 in the vicinity of the irrigated plant. Circuitry shown and described in Fig. 21 may be used to implement the electronic control aspects of the interface 165, transceiver 155, and processor 160.

[0063] Fig. 8 illustrates an example of a branch control valve 118 although a similar structure is used for the general control valve 115 disposed in the irrigation zone controller 145. Therefore, a redundant explanation is omihed. As explained herein, the present precision irrigation system uses addressability as a mechanism to provide separate control to each control valve 115, 118 so as to enable differentiated operation and control to emit irrigation fluid to specified, and potentially varying or dynamically configurable, degrees. Accordingly, as shown in Fig. 8, a branch control valve 118 may be installed in fluidic communication with a conduit either or both of 105, 105’. As a result, the branch control valve module 118 may receive irrigation fluid 10 for controlled transportation from an inlet 170 of the branch control valve 118 to an outlet 175 of the branch control valve 118.

[0064] This controlled transportation of irrigation fluid may be provided under control of the processor 160 based on computer software or firmware implemented instructions stored in an associated memory (discussed in more detail with respect to other figures) regarding the controlled opening, closing or adjustment of degree of opening of a controllable valve 180 to control and adjust fluid dispersion pahem and/or fluid flow rate. The controllable valve 180 may include a servo motor or stepper motor to adjust the valve opening. [0065] The processor 160 of each control valve module 118 is addressable and its address can be programmed in the field or it can be delivered with the address already preconfigured. The address can also be identified through a visual QR code and/or through an RFID signal control valve module. Once the address is programmed and recorded, it can be associated with at least one of: a plant material species, a planting or irrigation zone or sub-zone, and/or a specific plant location within an irrigation zone. In the example shown in Fig. 1, the addresses are formatted to denote: Zone- Number- Plant type. The control process that generates commands that operate the emitters optional include as additional parameters irrigation duration, time of year, time of day, age of plant, sensor readings (e.g., wilting amount of plant), for example.

[0066] Further, the control valve module 118 physical location can be specified and/or recorded on a digital plan associating the control valve module 118 with a plant type at a specific location.

[0067] This controlled transportation of irrigation fluid requires power to actuate and operate the various components of the general control valve 115, (as well as branch control valve 118), e.g., the processor 160, transceiver 155 of the communication interface 165 as well as the valve 180 itself, which optionally includes a servo motor or a stepper motor to drive the valve. There, in accordance with various embodiments of the invention such power is optionally generated via transmission of the irrigation fluid 10 through at least a portion of the plurality of interconnected irrigation fluid conduits. Thus, as shown in Fig. 8, the branch control valve 118 may include an impeller 185 that is positioned and cooperatively configured with the other components of the branch control valve 118 to operate akin to a water wheel or water turbine, which is a rotary machine that converts kinetic energy and potential energy of the irrigation fluid into mechanical energy in the form of a spinning shaft of the impeller 185 (perhaps with an optional gear box that changes rotation speed and torque). This mechanical energy may itself be used to directly drive, via belts, gears, and/or chains for example, other mechanical components of the branch control valve 118 such as for the mechanical work of opening, closing and adjusting positioning of the controllable valve 180. However, as shown in Fig. 10, the shaft of the impeller 185 may drive a rotor of a generator 156 so as to induce an electrical current in a stator of the generator 156. The electrical current may then be used directly, and/or stored in a power storage device 140 (e.g., battery) under control of power management circuitry 250 (both shown in Fig. 10). [0068] In addition, the branch control valve 118 may include a supplemental energy storage device 190 (which is either combined with the power storage device 140 of Fig. 10, or separate) that has a capacity to store the energy generated by the impeller 185 for subsequent use to actuate and operate the electrically driven components of the branch control valve 118. [0069] Following installation of the branch control valve, irrigation fluid confined inside the branch conduit 105 is maintained under pressure. Also, explained later, upon beginning of a communication session, the normally closed controllable valve 180 allows for the branch conduit 105 to fill, so as to create an acoustic communication medium in which sound waves travel. As will be discussed, a control signal, received through the acoustic channel is received by the transceiver 155 of the communication interface 165 and is relayed to the processor 160 to trigger, for example, opening of the controllable valve 180, thereby allowing fluid 10 to exit the conduit 105 through the control valve module’s outlet 175 by a controllable amount. As the fluid 10 makes its way through the branch control valve 118, it interacts with the blades of the impeller 185 and urges the impeller to rotate, and subsequently to generate electricity via turning of the rotor of the generator 156 (Fig. 10).

The electricity generated as a consequence of the fluid flow can be stored, used, or stored and used for driving electronic devices in the branch control valve 118 so as to provide a controllable amount of water to an emitter that is attached directly or indirectly to the outlet 175.

[0070] In at least one implementation, once the prescribed amount of irrigation fluid has been dispensed, the central controller 125 and/or the irrigation flow controller 215 sends a command to the control valve module’s processor 160 through the irrigation fluid medium (or wirelessly in some implementations) to close the corresponding electronic valve. Alternatively, closing of the valve after a prescribed period of time is an option.

[0071] In this way, the branch control valve 118 can be controlled to adjust the fluid flow rate and the fluid dispersion pattern, in a same way as if provided via a wire that carries electrical power from the mater controller 102. Accordingly, both the inlet 170 and outlet 175 of the branch control valve 118 is detachable and can be configured to adapt to a variable pipe caliber.

[0072] With this understanding of the functionality of the branch control valve 118 in mind, it should be understood that the processor 160 differs significantly from a conventional processor implemented for irrigation control in that conventional processors are limited in their capabilities and deficient in the precision that can be provided on a per control valve basis. As a result, the presently disclosed precision irrigation systems and the individually addressable and controllable control valve modules’ processors provide functionality beyond what is possible with conventional systems that only retain data and instruction for a number of irrigation circuits, time of day to turn on remote electronic valves, and the duration the electronic valves are to remain open.

[0073] Nevertheless, it should be understood that, in at least one implementation, the processor 160 may operate based on instructions that automatically control closing a valve after a predetermined period of time after opening the valve and based on receipt of control signaling directing that opening. In this way, the processor 160 may be configured to provide a specified amount of watering, e.g., 10 minutes, but the overall operation of the irrigation system may control increasing the amount of irrigation by signaling actuation of that 10 minute irrigation period multiple times based on instructions from the central controller 125 Such an implementation may have particular utility when soil conditions, climate or plant varieties are most effectively irrigated in small amounts throughout the day or night.

[0074] Thus, with this understanding of the controlled operation by the controllable valves in mind, it should be understood that each branch control valve 118 (as well as each general control valve 115) may be addressable and controllable at least through transmission of control signaling transmitted thereto. In at least some embodiments, this control signaling may be transmitted via the irrigation fluid conducted through the plurality of conduits 110. Additionally, or alternatively, each branch control valve 118 may be similarly addressable and controllable via wireless control signaling. Therefore, it should be understood that the communications transceiver 155 may differ significantly in these different implementations, as explained below.

[0075] For example, as referenced above, in accordance with various disclosed embodiments, each branch control valve 118 may be addressable and controllable at least through the irrigation fluid conducted through the plurality of conduits 110, wherein the irrigation fluid fully extends from at least one fluid inlet 120 to one of the branch control valves 118. This may be implemented by, for example, providing irrigation fluid under pressure along a conduit 110 between the central transceiver(s) 130 and a branch control valve 118 provided at a waypoint along the branch conduit 105 or at its terminus. The discussion above is equally applicable for the general control valves 115 disposed in the irrigation zone controllers 145 [0076] Control signaling may be transmitted, for example, via generation and transmission of acoustic (sound) waves that travel relatively far through irrigation fluid such as water. Thus, in embodiments using transmission of sound via irrigation fluid, the central transceiver 130 may emit sound waves (via an electrically driven piezoelectric element, or a percussion element) that propagate through the fluid disposed inside the network of the irrigation fluid conduits. For that matter, the central transceiver 130 may produce control signaling in the irrigation fluid in general. The signal emitted can be addressed to a single control valve module, a sub-zone of control valve modules, an irrigation zone of control valve modules, or the entire network of control valve modules within an irrigation system. For example, the emitted signal can be addressed to plant species emitters located in several irrigation zones. The addressable signal emitted can include at least one of: establishing communication linkage with the emitter’s unique address and directing the emitter’s electronic valve to open or open and close.

[0077] Although Fig. 1, and Fig. 4A show the branch conduits 105 as having a manifold that fans-out (portions where a main conduit 105’ splits into a plurality of branch conduits) that are arranged orthogonally to a shared feeder line (the horizontal section of conduit in Fig.

4A), it should be understood that the geometry to of the interconnection of conduit sections need not be a 90 degrees. Moreover, connection sections may be smoothly curved portions that transition gradually from the main conduit 105’ to each of the respective branch conduits 105 so as to encourage the ducting of acoustic energy through the branches, while minimizing reflection at the sharp bends, which may give rise to undesirably reflected waves. [0078] Communication through fluid media is well-known and widely used in nature. For example, whales swimming in the ocean can communicate up to three hundred miles by emitting high and low frequency sound waves. Similarly, the concept of electronic “knocks” described in Goldman’s U.S. 8,375,753 establishes a digital key that opens keyless doors by propagating sound waves through solid material.

[0079] As will be discussed din more detail in reference to other figures, the present irrigation system may use transmission of acoustic waves in a fluid medium that carry coded data instructions for triggering recognition and subsequent of operation instructions for a particular branch control valve 118 (or general control valve 115). Accordingly, for example, an initial component of a control signal might include identification of the particular branch control valve 118 (utilizing for example, the addressability scheme discussed above) for which subsequently transmitted actuation/operation instructions are directed. In this way, the central transceiver(s) 130 operated by the processors of the central controller 125 and/or irrigation flow controller 215 can transmit an addressable command through a conduit’s irrigation fluid to any addressable location (e.g., a control valve 115, 118) within the irrigation system 100. In addition to transmitting addressable commands through fluid to control valve modules, the central controller may utilize the central transceiver(s) 130 to transmit control messages to one or more sensors 40 (Fig. 1) provided in the irrigation system 100 or coupled to or in proximity to it. Furthermore, the irrigation system may use the acoustic transmitter of Fig. 9B in as part of the general control valve, or as a separate component in the irrigation controller 145. Furthermore, the acoustic transmitter of Fig. 9B may be used in combination with the acoustic detector 157 (Fig. 10 and Fig. 11) to serve as an acoustic repeater that is disposed in-line in of the branch conduits 105 to extend the communication range of acoustic signals in the conduits 105. The acoustic repeater uses the acoustic receiver of Fig. 11 to detect transmissions from upstream acoustic transmitters. If it determined the transmissions are intended for any downstream emitters, the acoustic repeater uses an acoustic transmitter like that shown in Fig. 9B to transmit the control signals downstream in the branch conduit 105.

[0080] Thus, the central transceiver(s) 130 for these particular embodiments can be coupled to an irrigation fluid conduit exterior surface and/or the conduit’s interior. The central transceiver(s) can be disposed inside the housing of the central controller or remote, having a low voltage wire extending from the controller to the transceiver coupled to the conduit or by means of a wireless connection.

[0081] Additionally, or alternatively, each control valve module 115 may be similarly addressable and controllable via wireless control signaling, e.g., non-standardized digital or analog transmissions that carry the data via phase-shift keying (PSK), on-off keying (OOK), frequency shift keying (FSK) of RF carrier waves, as well as transmissions using formats covered by communications standards such as WIFI or BLUETOOTH, for example. Similarly, control and data communication may be communicated with one or more sensors provided in the irrigation system 100 or coupled to or in proximity to it via such wireless signaling. For example, the irrigation system 100, and its constituent parts may be configured to enable transmission of a health heartbeat signal from the transceiver 155 included the general control valve module 115. In this way, diagnostics may be performed remotely under control of the central controller to determine location of irrigation system leaks or blockages without the need to unearth buried conduits, therefore, reducing cost and difficulty for maintenance.

[0082] Further, it should be understood that control valve modules may be controlled using signaling provided via irrigation fluid and Over The Air (OTA) via wireless signaling or a combination of both. Still further, it should be understood that the wireless signaling may be provided as a backup signaling option to be used as a mode of operation should control signaling using the irrigation fluid as the medium be ineffective.

[0083] In accordance with at least one embodiment, irrigation of a plurality of plants using the disclosed concepts may be performed to provide precision irrigation that differentiates between the irrigation requirements of at least a subset of the plurality of plants. Such irrigation requirements may be defined for the plants to be irrigated are determined for or by the central processor 125 at the time of plant or system installation and/or based on input from at least one of a plurality of sensors positioned in proximity to the plants to be irrigated, stored operational parameters data, stored plant specific data and/or received remote input. [0084] Thus, the central processor 125 may be configured to communicate with remote data sources and user interface access points (e.g., via a server-based solution via the Internet or a mobile application) within and/or outside the irrigation system 100. Further, the central processor 125 can employ code with various Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other machine learning algorithms, e.g., to develop “artificial” yet meaningful awareness of each plant’s condition. Examples of such AI engines are provided with respect to Figs. 16-20, for example. Such enhanced level of knowledge enables the more precise controller of care for each plant.

[0085] For example, the central controller 125, knowing at least one of the plant material species, the plant’s physical size, the air or air and soil moisture conditions, the temperature and the time the plant was last irrigation, can configure the time and duration the plant control valve module will remain open to provide the plant the fluid needed. The sensors may also provide imagines of the plants to detect amount of wilting, for example, or even if another plant is identified as dominating the intended plant.

[0086] Although irrigation has been described as the main application for the present description, it should be understood that other fluids may be used as well. For example, in the context of weed management, the trained AI engine can recognize a weed problem (or an invasive species that is overtaking the desired plant), and provide feedback to the central processor/controller 125. Because each of the emitters are individually addressable, selected branch conduits may be isolated to receive fluids, other than water, to help reduce or irradicate the weeds, or other invasive species. For example, in place of water provided to a particular branch control valve 118, each of the other valves can be turned off, and a bolus of diluted vinegar or another herbicide may be provided to the particular branch control valve 118 to be sprayed from the emitter controlled by that particular branch control valve 118 so as to suppress the growth of the weeds or invasive species. For example, if the desired plant is observed to be 2 feet from the emitter, the branch control valve 118 can be controlled to control the spray pattern by adjusting the how much the valve is opened. Insecticide may be applied in a similar manner. Likewise, detection of a stage of life of the plant may be identified and trigger a response. For example, if the plant is detected as being in bloom, the sensors associated with the branch control valve 118, may issue a reply message to the processor/controller 125, informing the processor/controller 125 of the event. In response the processor/controller 125 may issue a separate command, such as an alert to a pollination service operated by bee-keepers, or to a horticulturalist to cross-pollinate the plant. .

[0087] Figure 9A is a diagram of the components of the central transceiver 130. As previously discussed, the central transceiver 130 includes an RF transmitter and an RF receiver. However, in some embodiments the central transceiver 130 only uses a RF transmitter for transmitting control information to control valves, and in other embodiments uses an acoustic transmitters, as will be discussed with respect to Fig. 9B. In should be noted that either the central processor/controller 125 may dispatch control commands to the branch control valve, or the general control valve 115 may dispatch the commands. In some embodiments, as will be discussed, a repeater may be used to relay the commands. Fig. 9A is an example of components included in the central transceiver 130 which has an RF transmission capability and an RF receive capability. A bus 38 interconnects controller circuitry 37, an AI engine 100 as will be discussed with respect to Figs. 16-20, sensors 40, clock 41, memory 42 receiver circuitry 30 and external input/output interface 44. The receiver circuitry 39 receives RF signals from receive antenna 36B, and provides demodulated and detected data to the bus 38, which is then processed in the controller circuitry 37. The controller circuitry 37 may be a computer-based controller like that discussed in reference to Fig. 21. The receiver circuitry 39 receives signals transmitted from components of the irrigation system 100 (Fig. 1) such as control valves 115 and 118. However, it may also receive signals from sensors used observe plants, as well as the operational parameters of the irrigation system components. [0088] Power supply 43 provides power to any component that needs power in the central transceiver 130. Sensors 40 provide information to the controller circuitry 37, and the sensors optionally include image sensors, optical sensors, temperature sensors, moisture sensors, pressure sensors, and the like. A clock 41 provides a reliable time source for controlling intervals between symbols in the transmissions from the antenna 36A. Memory 42 is anon-volatile or volatile semiconductor memory, or bulk memory device (e.g., magnetic), and provides a storage mechanism for data used by the controller circuitry 37, as well as a repository of computer code that is executed by the controller circuitry 37 so as to “configure” the controller circuitry 37 to perform the functions described herein. The AI engine is discussed in more detail with reference to Figs. 16-20 and provides suggested control parameters to be used by the controller circuitry 37 when forming control instructions to be transmitted to downstream irrigation components, such as general control valves 115, zone controllers 145, and branch control valves 118. The external input/output interface 44 provides a path for connecting to other devices, such as peripheral devices (e.g., digital still camera, IoT devices, and the like), user interfaces, displays, etc.

[0089] In forming transmission packets (as discussed in figures 12a, and 12b for example), the controller circuitry 37 provides address data, and payload data (used for defining control instructions for general control valves 115 and branch control valves 118) to the packetizer 45, which forms data packets like that shown in Figure 12a. The packetizer 45 may be a discrete device, or may be implemented as a software-based packetizer that is executed in the controller circuitry 37 or another processor. The packetizer 45 appends a “wake up” field to the packet which may be pulse of at a least a predetermined duration to wake up processors in the control valves, which are often keep in a sleep state when not used to conserve power.

The packetizer also appends an address field to the packet that uniquely identifies the irrigation system component, or set of components, as an intended recipient of the packet. [0090] Once completed, the packetizer 45 provides the data packet to a baseband signal generator 46, which forms data pulses corresponding to the digital data contained in the packet. The baseband signal generator 46 may also include a modulator, that encodes the digital data in symbols via a modulation process, such as frequency shift keying (FSK), On- Off keying, phase shift keying, or the like. The symbols may then be upconverted to a channel frequency (e.g., 1 MHz through 6 GHz) and are then formed as channel symbols via a controllable upconverter 47. The upconverted signal is then applied to a power amplifier 34A, which then applies the amplified signal to the transmit antenna 36A for transmission to the rest of the irrigation system 100.

[0091] Fig. 9B is a diagram of an exemplary master controller 102 that includes an acoustic transmitter, as well as the central transceiver 130 that transmits/receives RF signals, discussed above with respect to Fig. 10. In Fig. 9B, a water source (e.g., from a well, municipal water pipes, pumps, etc., provides water to a pressure regulator 1320 of the master controller 102. With normalized pressure, the pressure regulator 1320 provides the water to master valve 1327, which is controlled by the controller 125. Water provided by the master valve 1327 is provided to a back end of the master valve 1327 such that an acoustic pulse generator 1321 can impart acoustic waves into the fluid between the master valve 1327 and the device to which the master controller 102 intends to communicate. As will be discussed, the valves in the general control valves 115, and the branch control valves 118 are normally closed. Therefore, when fluid is emitted from the master valve 1327 to the conduits 105’, the conduits 105’ will fill, and create a standing column of fluid in the conduits 105’. The standing, fully filled, columns of water are preferred over unfilled conduits because the full wave-front of acoustic waves propagate more efficiently in the full standing column of fluid. There other alternatives for filling and pressurizing the fluid in the channels, such as having a timed system, where open valves are closed at specified times and the conduits are filled so communications may be started at those scheduled times. Also, the valve may be commanded to be closed via RF signaling, etc. As for pressurizing the fluid in the conduit, the fluid is usually pressured from the inlet side of the conduit near the central controller, but it is also possible to pressurize the conduit at the emitter side by driving the impeller in reverse for a short period.

[0092] Once the conduit(s) 105’ is filled, the main valve 1327 closes under control of the controller 125 so acoustic transmissions may begin. In the present embodiment, the master controller 102 generates the acoustic pulses in one of two ways: (1) percussion, which generates a broadband acoustic wave containing many frequencies, and (2) vibration via excitation of a piezoelectric element over a narrower band(s) of frequencies. In percussion excitation, a servo 1323 excites a clapper 1325, which collides at speed with a closed portion of the master valve so as to excite the column of fluid with an acoustic wave. The acoustic energy produced by the percussion is broadband, but the water column in the conduit will serve as a bandpass filter to narrow the band of energy that efficiently propagates through the water in the conduit. The information carried by the acoustic wave is non-unlike on-off keying where the receiver “listens” for the presence/absence of acoustic energy at predetermined intervals. A detected pulse is construed as a digital “1” and an absence of a pulse is construed as a digital “0”. Alternatively, the data may be conveyed in predetermined time slots, where the presence or absence of pulses in predetermined time slots. If there are only two candidate time slots, then the coding is basis-2. If there are four candidate time slots, then each pulse carries two bits of information. Likewise, if there are 8 candidate slots, then the presence of a pulse in a slot carries 3 bits of information. The clapper 1325 and valve material generates a broadband of frequencies, and so the acoustic detector 157 (Fig.

10, and Fig. 11) performs a general energy detection to determine a presence or an absence of the pulse for a particular time slot. The baud rate is relatively slow of about 1 symbol per second, or slower, to avoid symbols from overlapping with one another.

[0093] The master controller 102 may also use vibration via a piezoelectric element to provide more frequency selective acoustic waveforms that typically range from 20 Hz to 10,000 Hz, although this range is non-exclusive and may extend up to 400 kHz. The piezoelectric element may also controllably operate in an ultrasonic mode, in which it is driven for a longer period of time in a 25 kHz to 40 kHz range with irrigation fluid in in the master valve 1327 so as to loosen and decalcify the internal metallic components, as well as remove other mineral deposits. The piezoelectric transducer 70 (Fig. 11) may be excited to different frequencies within the communication range, and so in addition to the “time slot” of on/off signaling in percussion-based communication, the piezoelectric transducer 70 may launch pulses at different times, amplitudes, and frequencies. Therefore, a much larger baud rate (symbol rate) and information rate (bits/second) may be achievable. On the other hand, in situations where acoustic waves attenuate too much, and/or become distorted with intersymbol interference, an in-conduit repeater may be used before the signals are degraded too much so the information is reliably transmitted to the acoustic receiver. The structure of the repeater is a combination of the acoustic receiver, and the acoustic transmitter. Use of one or more repeaters can greatly extend the communication range without fear of poor signal reception at the branch control valve 118. The piezoelectric element 70 may also operate in an ultrasonic cleaning mode in which it is driven to operate at between 25 kHz and 40 kHz for an extended time (such as 20 minutes to multiple hours) to remove calcium and mineral deposits that may accumulate over time in the valve controller and other parts exposed to irrigation fluid. [0094] Fig. 10 is a diagram of components of an irrigation zone controller 145 that is equipped to communicate wirelessly and acoustically. The irrigation zone controller 145 includes a transceiver 155 that has a digital receiver 60 as well as a RF transmitter 69. Thus, the irrigation zone controller 145 is equipped to not only act as an RF receiver, but also an RF transceiver or a repeater. For RF reception, the irrigation zone controller 145 receives RF signals via antenna 150 and provides the RF signal to a low noise amplifier 50 to boost the signal level. The amplified RF signal may then be passed through a band pass filter 56 to eliminate out of band noise and interference before being down converted, via down conversion circuitry 58, to an intermediate or baseband signal. The down conversion circuitry 58 uses a local oscillator to provide a stable reference frequency to assist in the downconvesion. An analog intermediate frequency (IF) is applied to an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 59A, which converts the analog signal to a sampled and digitized signal for subsequent processing in digital receiver 60. The digital receiver 60 isolates and detects symbols from the digital sample stream and extracts information bits form the samples. The digital receiver 60 then applies the information bits to the processor-based controller 805, which implements a wake-up detector 62 that observes an otherwise passive acoustic channel and constantly “listens” for a characteristic wake-up pulse. Most of the other electronics is in a sleep mode so as to save power. However, once the wake up detector 62 detects the presence of a wake-up pulse, it generates a wake-up control signal to wake up the processor(s) in the processor based controller 805. Once awake, the processor based controller 805 inspects the received packet of data and synchronizes timing with the transmitter by first observing a predetermined preamble of a known pattern. Then, the address information is extracted to determine if the message is for that particular irrigation zone controller 145, and if it is, the data from the payload section of the packet is extracted and identified for a particular control command. For example, the control command may be to open the control valve by a certain percentage. In response, the valve control module 67 sends a control message to the valve controller 158, which drives the valve to open/close by the specified amount.

[0095] If the control signal is sent via acoustic communication via fluid in the conduit, the acoustic detector 157 detects the data and provides it to the processor based controller 805 for similar processing to that described above for RF communication.

[0096] Because the irrigation zone controller does not have “wired” power from the master controller 102, it produces its own electrical power via the generator 156, previously discussed. Electricity produced by the generator 156 provides the electricity to power management circuitry 250, which governs the use of the electricity for storage in power storage device 140, or for use in the processing components of the irrigation zone controller 145. The power management circuitry 250 is connected to other devices such as processor- based controller 805 to control whether devices other than the wake-up detector are in active states or sleep states.

[0097] Fig. 11 is a diagram of an exemplary acoustic receiver. The backend (baseband processor) of the receiver is similar to RF receiver’s backend, discussed with respect to Fig. 10. In contrast with the RF receiver of Fig. 10, the acoustic receiver of Fig. 11 extracts information transmitted to it acoustically via an acoustic channel, which in this case is a conduit filled with a fluid, usually irrigation water. Power generation storage, power management, and power generation is like that described for the general control valve 115 A (Fig. 10) and is thus omitted in Fig. 11 for simplicity. Acoustic waves/pulses that propagate through the conduit 105’, 105 excite a membrane, or piezo electric coupler 76 that, as part of piezo-electric transducer 70, converts the acoustic waves into electricity. The electric currents are small, and so they are first amplified with a LNA 71 as part of the acoustic detector 157. Because the frequencies of the currents from the piezo-electric coupler are much lower (all less than 1MHz) than the RF signals for communications, the output of the LNA 71 may be directly converted to sampled and digitized digital data via ADC 72. The digital data is applied to a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) 74, which isolated energy levels in different frequency bands. In the case of percussion communication, the aggregate output from the FFT 74 is collected and compared with a threshold to decide whether the observed energy over a period of time is sufficient to conclude that an intentional pulse was detected, or not. The detection can be performed with a processor, or a threshold detector, for example. In the case a piezo-electric is used for transmission of data to the acoustic detector 157, the acoustic energy may be “colored”, meaning that different characteristic frequency components are conveyed to the acoustic detector 157 via the column of water in the conduit 105’, 105. More than one FFT may be used in combination with a bandpass filter for each FFT so energy in different frequency bands may be detected in parallel. For example, a wake up pulse, detected by wake-up detector 62 may observe energy in a first frequency band, while the preamble, address, and/or payload data may be transmitted in a different frequency. Once detected, the wake up detector 62, packet extraction circuitry 64, and valve control 67 ( any one of which, or all of which, may also be implemented in a programmed processor, or dedicated circuitry) operate similar to the same devices previously described with respect to the RF receiver of Fig. 10. The net result of the detection, is the dispatching of a control command to the valve controller 158 to control the amount of fluid allowed to pass downstream, to other devices or to a dedicated emitter.

[0098] Fig. 12a is a data structure of a command message transmitted acoustically. A similar data packet may be sent as an electromagnetic signal at RF frequencies. Of course, the data carried in the RF signal would be in the form of frequency (e.g., FSK), phase (PSK), or power modulation (on-off keying), or the like). The data structure includes a first field 1201 that is a wake up signal. The wake up signal in this example is a single pulse of a predetermined duration, and occupying one or more predetermined frequency band(s). The wake up signal need not be a single pulse, it simply needs to be a distinctive signal that the wake up detector 62 can recognize, so it can inform power management circuitry 250 to energize the other electronics so they can begin to receive and process incoming signals. [0099] The data structure of Fig. 12a includes a preamble 1202 that is a predetermined signal pattern (e.g., a pattern of pulses 2 to 15 in length) that the processor 805 knows a priori is being transmitted so the processor can adjust its timing to identify the beginning/ending times of each subsequent time slot in the address field 1203 and the payload data 1204. In this example, a particular branch control valve 118 (or general control valve 115) is uniquely identifiable by an digitally encoded address (e.g., 000001 for a first device, and 000010 for a second device).

[00100] However, a digitally encoded scheme is just one example. The “addressability” of each device may be accomplished by assigning different time slots to each device, and if a pulse is received in a time slot assigned to a particular control valve, that control valve will know the payload data that is coming next is intended for it. However, in this exemplary digitally encoded scheme, an address of 3 to 50 pulses is used, where the number of pulses is a function of the number different uniquely addressable devices in the irrigation system. If error correction coding is used (e.g., redundancy coding), then the number of pulses in the address field will increase to accommodate the additional signaling required for the coded signal.

[00101] The payload data follows the address field. At this point in the receive sequence, the receiver’s processor 805 to know the payload data is intended for it, or not, and if it is, the receiver’s processor 805 will extract the data from the payload and examine it content. In one embodiment, the payload data is an encoded word that corresponds to a command known to the receiver’s processor 805. For example, the processor 805 may have a look-up-table stored in memory with corresponding entries for the encoded word, and that actual instruction that the control valve has been requested to execute. For example, an encoded word of 001 may correspond to “open valve to setting 1”. As previously discussed, the receiver is part of a transceiver, and so the transmitter associated with the control valve may reply with a transmission (usually via radio wave transmission), such as an ACK (acknowledge), or perhaps a request to resend.

[00102] Fig. 12b is an exemplary waveform of an acoustic signal formatted according to the data structure of Fig. 12a. The output of the LNA 71 (Fig. 11) produces a voltage signal having at a frequency or band of frequencies for a period of time t _w , time-of-wake-up-pulse. The width of the pulse is usually different than the width of a preamble pulse, t _p , an address pulse tan, or a data pulse, tdn. This is because the wake up pulse should be uniquely distinctive, and of sufficient energy that the wake-up detector 62 will not generate too many false-positive detections due to noise, and thus not unnecessarily wake-up other electronic devices and waste stored, or generated electrical power. As previously mentioned, the wake- up pulse need not be a single pulse, and in other embodiments could be a series of pulses, a distinctive pattern of pulses or frequencies, or even a distinctive analog waveform (e.g., sawtooth waveform for a period of time, t _w ).

[00103] The preamble 1202 is a known pulse pattern with pulses of length t _p that allow the receiver’s processor to synchronize itself with the expected timing of received pulse edges for other pulses in the data structure. The series of pulses may be a Barker code for example, to assist in synchronizing.

[00104] Subsequently, the receiver’s processor 805 employs packet extraction 64 to identify address pulses, and compare a series of received pulses with an address of the control valve module’s 118, 115, own address. In the example ofFig. 12b, time slots t _a 3 and t _a 4 are high, while tai, t _a 2, and t _a s are absent, signifying an address of 00110. If that address is a match, the receiver’s processor 805 extracts the payload data represented as pulses tdn, and interprets those pulses as a command by comparing the received payload data with identifiers for specific commands saved in memory. In the example ofFig. 12b, a data word “001” is received by receiver’s processor 805 and “001” is used to look up a stored, predetermined, valve control command, which may before for instance, “open to valve setting 1”. In response, the valve control 67 dispatches a command to valve controller 158 to set the branch control valve 118 to setting- 1. [00105] Fig. 13 is a flow diagram of a process for using acoustic communication to control individually addressable valves to provide irrigation fluid, or not, to selected emitters. The process begins in step S560 where a transmission packet is generated at the master controller 102. As part of the communication process, the master controller 102 releases irrigation fluid to the conduits 105’, 105 so the fluid in the conduits 105’, 105 may serve as a communication medium for the propagation of acoustic energy to the control valves 115, 118. The control valves 115, and 118 are normally closed, and so fluid that flows to the control valves 115,

118 will fill the conduits 105’, 105. Alternatively, the control valves 115, 118 may optionally include a flow sensor, that once initially triggered by a flow of water above a predetermined amount, the control valves respond by closing, so the conduits 105’, 105 may fill.

[00106] After step S562, the process proceeds to step S654, which in this exemplary embodiment, uses percussion to generate wideband acoustic energy in pulses. The pulses are formed according to the packet sequence, as discussed with respect to Fig. 12a, and Fig. 12b. Next, a query is made in Step S568 regarding whether the period of communication has ended. If the response is negative, the process continues in a loop until the communication period has ended. At that point, the process proceeds to step S570 where the controlled valves allow the irrigation fluid to flow in the controlled zones. Subsequently, the process proceeds to step S572 where another query is made regarding whether the irrigation time has elapsed. If not, the process continues in a loop until the time period has ended. At that point, the process proceeds to step S574 where the controlled valves are closed and the flow of irrigation fluid is stopped. The process then proceeds to step S576 where a query is made regarding whether it is next time for an irrigation procedure. If the response it negative, the process periodically repeats the inquiry until an affirmative result is obtain, and then the process returns to step S560, where it is repeated.

[00107] Fig. 14 is similar to Fig. 13, although it uses RF communications rather than acoustic communication. The process begins in step S660 where a packet is generated. The process then proceeds to step S664 were an RF signal is transmitted with the content of the packetized data. An inquiry is performed in step S668 regarding whether the communication period has ended. If not, the communications continue until the response to query is affirmative. At that point, the process proceeds to step S670 where irrigation fluid is distributed to controlled zones, and then a query is made in step S672 regarding whether the irrigation period has elapsed. If not, the irrigation continues until an affirmative response is received. Once received, the process proceeds to step S674 where the control valves 115, 118 are closed and the irrigation fluid stops flowing. A timing operation is then performed via the query at step S676, which inquires whether the time for next irrigation operation is now. If not, the waiting continues until an affirmative result is obtained and the process repeats by returning to step S660.

[00108] Fig. 15 is a flowchart performed at one of the control valve 115, 118. The processor 160 at control valve 115, 118 performs a query at S101 regarding whether a wake-up signal is received. If not, the process repeats a loop until an affirmative result is obtained and then the process proceeds to another query in step SI 03. At step SI 03, a query is made regarding whether the preamble was properly received, and if not, it is concluded that a false positive was experienced in step SI 04 and the process returns to step SI 01. However, if an affirmative step is obtained, the process proceeds to another query in step S105, where it is determined whether the address of the control module is received. If not, then it is concluded that the communications are not intended for that particular control valve, and the process returns to step S101. However, if the response to the query in step SI 05 is affirmative, the process proceeds to step SI 07 where the payload contents are received and extracted, and then in step SI 09 the payload contents are converted to a valve setting. Subsequently in step SI 11 a valve command is dispatched to control an opening/closing amount for the controlled valve, and then irrigation is performed in step SI 13 with irrigation fluid permitted to pass through the controlled valve. Irrigation is ended when water pressure drops from the master controller 102, or after a time set at the control valve, at which point the control valve closes the valve in step SI 17. The process then repeats in step S101.

[00109] Turning to Fig. 16, an explanation is provided regarding how a computer-based system 1000 (which can be implemented with the computer hardware and software described with respect to Fig. 21)) implements an AI engine to determine an amount of valve opening is desired to avoid having a subject plant wilt beyond a predetermined amount due to lack of water in varying conditions, as well as determining whether invasive, undesired plants are identified as being more pervasive near the emitter than desired.

[00110] First, by referring to Fig. 16, a configuration of the computer-based system 1000 may include a data extraction network 1011 and a data analysis network 1012. The computer-based system 1000 uses images from one or more cameras for training an AI engine, as will be discussed with respect Fig.17 and Fig. 18. That AI engine is then used to send commands to control valves near emitters so as to adaptively control an amount of irrigation fluid is emitted based on an appearance of the subject plant(s) and a degree of spatial infringement by another species of plant that is detected as encroaching on the subject plant(s).

[00111] In reference to Fig. 17, the data extraction network 1011 may include at least one first feature extracting layer 2100, at least one Region-Of-Interest (ROI) pooling layer 2200, at least one first outputting layer 2300 and at least one data vectorizing layer 2400. And, also to be illustrated in Fig. 18, the data analysis network 1012 may include at least one second feature extracting layer 3100 and at least one second outputting layer 3200.

[00112] Below, specific processes of determining degree of wilting, and plant identification of an encroaching plant will be explained. It should be understood that these two parameters (wilting and plant ID) are merely exemplary, and the AI engine may be trained to observe and adapt to many other conditions as well, such as size of plant, amount of moisture provided from other sources, such as rain, cloud cover, temperature fluctuations, prioritization of subject plants, etc.

[00113] In this non-limiting example, first, the computer-based system 1000 may acquire at least one subject image, perhaps from a camera connected to a processor of a control valve that controls an amount of irrigation fluid provided to an emitter that waters the subject plant. Of course, other input may be used as well such as temperature, and light level, but in this example, an image (video or still image) is used of an area near the subject plant.

[00114] After the subject image is acquired, in order to generate a source vector to be inputted to the data analysis network 1012, the computing device 1000 may instruct the data extraction network 1011 to generate the source vector including (i) plant wilt, and (ii) plant ID (and associated obstruction amount on the subject plant). Plant wilt relates to a plant’s stature under a variety of conditions, including fully healthy, to nearly deceased due to lack of water. The plant ID is used to determine whether weeds or other invasive species have dominated the area around the subject plant, which may trigger an automatic, or manual, application of herbicide, as previously discussed. Similarly, detection of insects, or evidence of plant damage due to insects, is another parameter that could trigger an application of insecticide(s), in a similar manner to the way herbicide is substituted for water, as discussed above.

[00115] In order to generate the source vector, the computer-based system 1000 may instruct at least part of the data extraction network 1011 to detect the plant and features about the plant from an image that includes the plant. [00116] Specifically, the computer-based system 1000 may instruct the first feature extracting layer 1011 to apply at least one first convolutional operation to the subject image, to thereby generate at least one subject feature map. Thereafter, the computer-based system 1000 may instruct the ROI pooling layer 2200 to generate one or more ROI-Pooled feature maps by pooling regions on the subject feature map, corresponding to ROIs on the subject image which have been acquired from a Region Proposal Network (RPN) interworking with the data extraction network 1011. And, the computer-based system 1000 may instruct the first outputting layer 2300 to generate at least one estimated wilting level and one estimated plant ID. That is, the first outputting layer 2300 may perform a classification and a regression on the subject image, by applying at least one first Fully-Connected (FC) operation to the ROI- Pooled feature maps, to generate each of the estimated wilting, and plant identification, including information on coordinates of each of bounding boxes. Herein, the bounding boxes may include the subject plant, and existing undesired plant species.

[00117] After such detecting processes are completed, by using the estimated wilting and ID amount, the computer-based system 1000 may instruct the data vectorizing layer 240 to subtract an amount of plant wilt (with reference to a standard for the subject plant species) and a volume occupied by the invasive plant to determine an apparent wilting and an apparent obstruction by the invasive species.

[00118] After the apparent wilting and the apparent obstruction amount are acquired, the computer-based system 1000 may instruct the data vectorizing layer 240 to generate at least one source vector including the apparent wilting and the apparent obstruction amount as at least part of its components.

[00119] Then, the computing device 1000 may instruct the data analysis network 1012 to calculate an estimated total wilt by using the source vector. Herein, the second feature extracting layer 3100 of the data analysis network 1012 may apply second convolutional operation to the source vector to generate at least one source feature map, and the second outputting layer 320 of the data analysis network 1012 may perform a regression, by applying at least one FC operation to the source feature map, to thereby calculate the estimated total wilt/obstruction. Once trained, the resulting AI engine may use the estimated total wilt/obstruction as one layer of the ATs engine (as well as other layers trained to analyze the other parameters discussed herein) as input to the computer-based system 1000 in assessing whether the planned amount of irrigation fluid is superior to a different amount. Based on that that assessment, the central processor/controller 125 (if performed at the master controller 102), or 160 (if performed at the control valve) and control the amount of water to be dispensed via the control valve.

[00120] As discussed above, the computer-based system 1000 includes two neural networks, i.e., the data extraction network 1011 and the data analysis network 1012. The two neural networks are trained to perform the processes properly. Below, a more detailed description of how to train the two neural networks will be explained in reference to Figs. 19 and 20.

[00121] First, by referring to Fig. 17, the data extraction network 1011 may have been trained by using (i) a plurality of training images corresponding to scenes of plants in various stages of health, due to under or overwatering, and (ii) a plurality of their corresponding ground truth (GT) images of plants across the spectrum of over/underwatering. More specifically, the data extraction network 1011 may have applied aforementioned operations to the training images, and have generated their corresponding estimated wilt and obstruction levels. Then, (i) each of ground pairs of each of the estimated wilting amounts and each of their corresponding GT wilting amounts and (ii) each of plant ID/obstruction amounts of various undesired plants and each of their obstruction GTs are referred to, in order to generate at least one wilting loss and at least one ID/obstruction loss, by using any of loss generating algorithms, e.g., a smooth-Ll loss algorithm and a cross-entropy loss algorithm. Thereafter, by referring to the wilting loss and the obstruction loss, backpropagation may have been performed to learn at least part of parameters of the data extraction network 1011. Parameters of the RPN can be trained also, but a usage of the RPN is a well-known prior art, thus further explanation is omitted.

[00122] Herein, the data vectorizing layer 240 may have been implemented by using a rule- based algorithm, not a neural network algorithm. In this case, the data vectorizing layer 240 may not need to be trained, and may just be able to perform properly by using its settings inputted by a manager.

[00123] As an example, the first feature extracting layer 2100, the ROI pooling layer 2200 and the first outputting layer 2300 may be acquired by applying a transfer learning, which is a known technology, to an existing object detection network such as VGG or ResNet, etc. [00124] Second, by referring to Fig. 18, the data analysis network 1012 may have been trained by using (i) a plurality of source vectors for training, including apparent wilting for training and apparent plant ID/obstruction for training as their components, and (ii) a plurality of their corresponding GT total wilting/obstruction. More specifically, the data analysis network 1012 may have applied aforementioned operations to the source vectors for training, to thereby calculate their corresponding estimated wilting and/or obstruction for training. Then each of congestion pairs of each of the estimated wilting/obstruction amounts and each of their corresponding GT wilting/obstruction amounts may have been referred to, in order to generate at least one wilting/obstruction loss, by using any of the previously discussed loss algorithms. Thereafter, by referring to the wilting/obstruction loss, backpropagation can be performed to learn at least part of parameters of the data analysis network 1012. After the total wilting/obstruction is calculated, further training for additional parameters such as temperature, light level, insect damage, etc. may be used as well to further refine the process for adaptively identifying a best way of operating the control valve to release an appropriate amount of irrigation fluid according to the circumstances.

[00125] After performing such training processes, the computer-based system 1000 has trained the AI engine to properly calculate the wilting/obstruction amount by using the subject image including the scene previously photographed. Moreover, as a consequence of training the computer-based system 1000 to implement the AI engine to consider the above described parameters, the AI engine may be used to select certain control valve settings to adaptively adjust an amount of irrigation fluid to be emitted on the subject plant(s)

[00126] Fig. 19 is a flowchart of a computer-based algorithm performed according to the present disclosure to adaptively control a valve (and/or amount of water to be released) in the irrigation system 100. The process begins in step S7760 where training images (e.g., images such as various plants in varying degrees of dryness) are applied as a feature extraction layer where features are detected in the images, such as the bounding boxes showing selected features from images. The process then proceeds to step S7762 where ground truth (GT) images are input to the data extraction network in step S7762. Then in step S7764 estimates are generated for the detected features, and in step S7766 losses are generated for the extracted features, with respect to the GTs, and backpropagated so as to leam the data extraction parameters of the data extraction network.

[00127] Fig. 20 is a flowchart that corresponds with the training of the data analysis network of the AI engine as previously discussed. The process begins in step S8768 where a training vector is input with respect to apparent features as well as corresponding vectors that are GTs. In step S8770 the losses for the parameters are determined by comparison, and then in step S8772 the losses are back-propagated so as to leam the data analysis parameters of the data analysis network. [00128] At least the control aspects of the present disclosure may be embodied as a system, a method, and/or a computer program product. The computer program product governs control of the irrigation system and communications and may include a computer readable storage medium on which computer readable program instructions are recorded that may cause one or more processors to carry out aspects of the embodiment.

[00129] The computer readable storage medium may be a tangible device that can store instructions for use by an instruction execution device (processor). The computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but is not limited to, an electronic storage device, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, an electromagnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage device, or any appropriate combination of these devices. A non- exhaustive list of more specific examples of the computer readable storage medium includes each of the following (and appropriate combinations): flexible disk, hard disk, solid-state drive (SSD), random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash), static random access memory (SRAM), compact disc (CD or CD-ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD) and memory card or stick. A computer readable storage medium, as used in this disclosure, is not to be construed as being transitory signals per se, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through a waveguide or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses passing through a fiber-optic cable), or electrical signals transmitted through a wire.

[00130] Computer readable program instructions described in this disclosure can be downloaded to an appropriate computing or processing device from a computer readable storage medium or to an external computer or external storage device via a global network (i.e., the Internet), a local area network, a wide area network and/or a wireless network. The network may include copper transmission wires, optical communication fibers, wireless transmission, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers and/or edge servers. A network adapter card or network interface in each computing or processing device may receive computer readable program instructions from the network and forward the computer readable program instructions for storage in a computer readable storage medium within the computing or processing device.

[00131] Computer readable program instructions for carrying out operations of the present disclosure may include machine language instructions and/or microcode, which may be compiled or interpreted from source code written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including assembly language, Basic, Fortran, Java, Python, R, C, C++, C# or similar programming languages. The computer readable program instructions may execute entirely on a user’s personal computer, notebook computer, tablet, or smartphone, entirely on a remote computer or computer server, or any combination of these computing devices. The remote computer or computer server may be connected to the user’s device or devices through a computer network, including a local area network or a wide area network, or a global network (i.e., the Internet). In some embodiments, electronic circuitry including, for example, programmable logic circuitry, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), or programmable logic arrays (PLA) may execute the computer readable program instructions by using information from the computer readable program instructions to configure or customize the electronic circuitry, in order to perform aspects of the present disclosure.

[00132] Aspects of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to flow diagrams and block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of the disclosure. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that each block of the flow diagrams and block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flow diagrams and block diagrams, can be implemented by computer readable program instructions.

[00133] The computer readable program instructions that may implement the systems and methods described in this disclosure may be provided to one or more processors (and/or one or more cores within a processor) of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable apparatus, create a system for implementing the functions specified in the flow diagrams and block diagrams in the present disclosure. These computer readable program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable storage medium that can direct a computer, a programmable apparatus, and/or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the computer readable storage medium having stored instructions is an article of manufacture including instructions which implement aspects of the functions specified in the flow diagrams and block diagrams in the present disclosure.

[00134] The computer readable program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other device to produce a computer implemented process, such that the instructions which execute on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other device implement the functions specified in the flow diagrams and block diagrams in the present disclosure.

[00135] FIG. 21 is a functional block diagram illustrating control circuitry 800 may include one or more networked computers and servers. In an embodiment, the hardware and software environment illustrated in FIG. 21 may provide an exemplary platform for implementation of the software and/or methods according to the present disclosure. Moreover, all or part of the control circuitry 800 may be used as the processing components for central processor/controller 125, processor 160, and processor-based controller 805.

[00136] Referring to FIG. Ill, control circuitry 800 may include, but is not limited to, computer 805, network 810, remote computer 815, web server 820, cloud storage server 825 and computer server 830. In some embodiments, multiple instances of one or more of the functional blocks illustrated in FIG. 21 may be employed.

[00137] Additional detail of computer 805 is shown in FIG. 21. The functional blocks illustrated within computer 805 are provided only to establish exemplary functionality and are not intended to be exhaustive. And while details are not provided for remote computer 815, web server 820, cloud storage server 825 and computer server 830, these other computers and devices may include similar functionality to that shown for computer 805. [00138] Computer 805 may be a personal computer (PC), a desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet computer, netbook computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a smart phone, or any other programmable electronic device capable of communicating with other devices on network 810.

[00139] Computer 805 may include processor 835, bus 837, memory 840, non-volatile storage 845, network interface 850, peripheral interface 855 and display interface 865. Each of these functions may be implemented, in some embodiments, as individual electronic subsystems (integrated circuit chip or combination of chips and associated devices), or, in other embodiments, some combination of functions may be implemented on a single chip (sometimes called a system on chip or SoC).

[00140] Processor 835 may be one or more single or multi-chip microprocessors, such as those designed and/or manufactured by Intel Corporation, Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD), Arm Holdings (Arm), Apple Computer, etc. Examples of microprocessors include Celeron, Pentium, Core i3, Core i5 and Core i7 from Intel Corporation; Opteron, Phenom, Athlon, Turion and Ryzen from AMD; and Cortex- A, Cortex-R and Cortex-M from Arm. [00141] Bus 837 may be a proprietary or industry standard high-speed parallel or serial peripheral interconnect bus, such as ISA, PCI, PCI Express (PCI-e), AGP, and the like. [00142] Memory 840 and non-volatile storage 845 may be computer-readable storage media. Memory 840 may include any suitable volatile storage devices such as Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) and Static Random Access Memory (SRAM). Non-volatile storage 845 may include one or more of the following: flexible disk, hard disk, solid-state drive (SSD), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash), compact disc (CD or CD-ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD) and memory card or stick.

[00143] Program 848 may be a collection of machine readable instructions and/or data that is stored in non-volatile storage 845 and is used to create, manage and control certain software functions that are discussed in detail elsewhere in the present disclosure and illustrated in the drawings. In some embodiments, memory 840 may be considerably faster than non-volatile storage 845. In such embodiments, program 848 may be transferred from non-volatile storage 845 to memory 840 prior to execution by processor 835.

[00144] Computer 805 may be capable of communicating and interacting with other computers via network 810 through network interface 850. Network 810 may be, for example, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, or a combination of the two, and may include wired, wireless, or fiber optic connections. In general, network 810 can be any combination of connections and protocols that support communications between two or more computers and related devices.

[00145] Peripheral interface 855 may allow for input and output of data with other devices that may be connected locally with computer 805. For example, peripheral interface 855 may provide a connection to external devices 860. External devices 860 may include devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, a keypad, a touch screen, and/or other suitable input devices.

External devices 860 may also include portable computer-readable storage media such as, for example, thumb drives, portable optical or magnetic disks, and memory cards. Software and data used to practice embodiments of the present disclosure, for example, program 848, may be stored on such portable computer-readable storage media. In such embodiments, software may be loaded onto non-volatile storage 845 or, alternatively, directly into memory 840 via peripheral interface 855. Peripheral interface 855 may use an industry standard connection, such as RS-232 or Universal Serial Bus (USB), to connect with external devices 860. [00146] Display interface 865 may connect computer 805 to display 870. Display 870 may be used, in some embodiments, to present a command line or graphical user interface to a user of computer 805. Display interface 865 may connect to display 870 using one or more proprietary or industry standard connections, such as VGA, DVI, Display Port and HDMI. [00147] As described above, network interface 850, provides for communications with other computing and storage systems or devices external to computer 805. Software programs and data discussed herein may be downloaded from, for example, remote computer 815, web server 820, cloud storage server 825 and computer server 830 to non-volatile storage 845 through network interface 850 and network 810. Furthermore, the systems and methods described in this disclosure may be executed by one or more computers connected to computer 805 through network interface 850 and network 810. For example, in some embodiments the systems and methods described in this disclosure may be executed by remote computer 815, computer server 830, or a combination of the interconnected computers on network 810.

[00148] Data, datasets and/or databases employed in embodiments of the systems and methods described in this disclosure may be stored and or downloaded from remote computer 815, web server 820, cloud storage server 825 and computer server 830.

[00149] Circuitry as used in the present application can be defined as one or more of the following: an electronic component (such as a semiconductor device), multiple electronic components that are directly connected to one another or interconnected via electronic communications, a computer, a network of computer devices, a remote computer, a web server, a cloud storage server, a computer server. For example, each of the one or more of the computer, the remote computer, the web server, the cloud storage server, and the computer server can be encompassed by or may include the circuitry as a component(s) thereof. In some embodiments, multiple instances of one or more of these components may be employed, wherein each of the multiple instances of the one or more of these components are also encompassed by or include circuitry. In some embodiments, the circuitry represented by the networked system may include a serverless computing system corresponding to a virtualized set of hardware resources. The circuitry represented by the computer may be a personal computer (PC), a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a netbook computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a smart phone, or any other programmable electronic device capable of communicating with other devices on the network. The circuitry may be a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable apparatus as described herein that includes one or more processors. Each processor may be one or more single or multi-chip microprocessors. Processors are considered processing circuitry or circuitry as they include transistors and other circuitry therein. The circuitry may implement the systems and methods described in this disclosure based on computer-readable program instructions provided to the one or more processors (and/or one or more cores within a processor) of one or more of the general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable apparatus described herein to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the one or more processors of the programmable apparatus that is encompassed by or includes the circuitry, create a system for implementing the functions specified in the flow diagrams and block diagrams in the present disclosure. Alternatively, the circuitry may be a preprogrammed structure, such as a programmable logic device, application specific integrated circuit, or the like, and is/are considered circuitry regardless if used in isolation or in combination with other circuitry that is programmable, or preprogrammed.

[00150] As a result, of the above description it should be understood that there are various examples of particular technical utility resulting from the enhanced awareness provided by the disclosed precision irrigation system. For example, in one example, it should be understood that the processor(s) of the central controller may be configured to analyze, in real time or near-real time, plant image data relayed by a remote camera. The processor(s) of the central controller may then compare the plant image data with historical plant image data to determine whether the plants should receive more or less irrigation, determine whether there is a risk or actual mineral deficiencies, disease, or insect infestation, thereafter alerting a caretaker. Likewise, the processor(s) of the central controller may analyze the image data to determine that ripened fruit is ready for harvesting or cultivated flowers are ready to bloom, thereafter alerting a caretaker accordingly. Still further, such remote image data analysis may be used by the processor(s) of the central controller when a landscape lighting luminaire fails to turn on.

[00151] Additionally, it should be understood that processor(s) of the central controller may be in communication with data sensors that extract actionable data such as a thermal probe and/or a humidity probe. The processor(s) of the central controller may analyze such data received to automatically, semi-automatically or prompt analysis whether to alter irrigation schedules, duration and volume of plant irrigation for a specific plant species, plants in a particular irrigation zone or sub-zone or over the entire irrigation system. [00152] While this invention has been described in conjunction with the specific embodiments outlined above, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the various embodiments of the invention, as set forth above, are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[00153] It should be understood that the above-disclosed embodiments and various constituent equipment may be coupled to a computer processor used to program operation and functionality of such equipment during manufacturing of such components or during actual operation of an irrigation system including such components. For example, it should be understood that the control signaling may be generated for transmission via the irrigation fluid by operation of one or more computer processors running software that enables generation of such control signaling. Further, the software code, instructions and algorithms utilized may be utilized by such a processor and may be stored in a memory that may include any type of known memory device including any mechanism for storing computer executable instructions and data used by a processor. Further, the memory may be implemented with any combination of read only memory modules or random access memory modules, optionally including both volatile and nonvolatile memory. Alternatively, some or all of the device computer executable instructions may be embodied in hardware or firmware (not illustrated). Further, it should be appreciated that, although not illustrated, the apparatus may similarly be coupled for communication and control to one or more user interfaces that may include, for example, a display screen, one or more keyboards/keypads, a mobile application implemented interface for use with a mobile phone, smart phone, or tablet device, and other types of user interface equipment.

[00154] For example, it should be understood that the presently disclosed embodiments enable the elimination of wired, low-voltage actuated electronic valves. Moreover, in accordance with at least some of the disclosed embodiments, the principles of operation may be implemented to retrofit existing irrigation systems that still include such wired, low- voltage actuated electronic valves. In such an implementation, it is possible that such conventional valves may remain open permanently or open only when controlled by the system controller. However, with wired, low-voltage actuated electronic valves removed entirely, the need to have either extended low voltage conductors installed to provide power and control signaling is eliminated. [00155] Further, the disclosed embodiments may be fitted or retrofitted the above grade conduits with control valve modules that may include an electronic valves. By fitting each conduit fluid emitter with an electronic valves and eliminating or bypassing the irrigation boxes’ electronic valves, fluid under pressure is obstruction free between the “main” fluid inlet conduit and the electronic valves disposed at various points along a conduit 105 or at its terminus.

[00156] Thus, it should be understood that the present innovation optimizes the efficiency of the irrigation system, reducing fluid usage while safeguarding the plant material’s health. The heightened care level that the system provides can only be attained by employing a processor/controller operated by code coupled to at least one of: sensing, communicating, and output device/s and supported by historical analyzed data.

[00157] Combining the concept of sound emitting communication through a fluid medium with the concept of harnessing the fluid dynamics to generate electricity in an irrigation system in the manner described is novel. The system can be configured to be used with both new and existing irrigation systems. In addition, having sensing, communication, output, and processing capabilities, existing irrigation systems and new system functionalities can be expanded to incorporate at least one of: lighting systems, and building exterior security systems.

[00158] It should be understood that the functionality described in connection with various described components of various invention embodiments may be combined or separated from one another in such a way that the architecture of the invention is somewhat different than what is expressly disclosed herein. Moreover, it should be understood that, unless otherwise specified, there is no essential requirement that methodology operations be performed in the illustrated order; therefore, one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that some operations may be performed in one or more alternative order and/or simultaneously.

[00159] Further, it should be understood that, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the invention, system components may be implemented together or separately and there may be one or more of any or all of the disclosed system components. Further, system components may be either dedicated systems or such functionality may be implemented as virtual systems implemented on general purpose equipment via software implementations.

[00160] As a result, it will be apparent for those skilled in the art that the illustrative embodiments described are only examples and that various modifications can be made within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. [00161] Element List

[00162] 10 Fluid

[00163] 36A Transmit Antenna

[00164] 36B Receive Antenna

[00165] 37 Controller Circuitry

[00166] 38 Controller Bus

[00167] 39 Receiver Circuitry

[00168] 40 Sensors

[00169] 41 Clock

[00170] 42 Memory

[00171] 43 Power Supply

[00172] 44 External I/O Interface

[00173] 45 Packetizer

[00174] 46 Baseband Generator

[00175] 47 Controllable Upconverter

[00176] 50 Low Noise Amplifier

[00177] 52 Local Oscillator

[00178] 56 Bandpass Filter

[00179] 58 Down Converter

[00180] 59A Analog to Digital Converter

[00181] 60 Digital Receiver

[00182] 62 Wake Up Detector

[00183] 64 Packet Extraction

[00184] 67 Valve Control

[00185] 69 Transmitter

[00186] 70 Piezo-Electric Transducer

[00187] 71 Low Noise Amplifier

[00188] 72 Analog to Digital Converter

[00189] 74 Fast Fourier Transfer Processor

[00190] 76 Piezo Coupler

[00191] 100 Irrigation System

[00192] 101 Zone Controller Housing

[00193] 102 Master Controller [00194] 103 Zone Controller Lid

[00195] 105 Branch Conduit

[00196] 105’ Main Conduit

[00197] 108 Photovoltaic Panel

[00198] 110 Irrigation Zone

[00199] 115, 115a, 115b General Control Valve

[00200] 118 Branch Control Valve

[00201] 120 Fluid Inlet

[00202] 125 Central Processor/controller

[00203] 130 Central Transceiver, transmitter/receiver

[00204] 135 Power Source

[00205] 140 Power Storage

[00206] 145 Irrigation Zone Controller

[00207] 150 Whip Antenna

[00208] 150a Patch Antenna Array

[00209] 155 Transceiver

[00210] 156 Generator

[00211] 157 Acoustic Detector

[00212] 160 Processor

[00213] 165 Communications Interface

[00214] 175 Outlet

[00215] 180 Controllable Valve

[00216] 185 Impeller

[00217] 190 Generator and Energy Storage

[00218] 200 Irrigation Box

[00219] 201 Box

[00220] 203 Lid

[00221] 205 Conventional valve

[00222] 215 Wired Controller

[00223] 220 Fluid Inlet

[00224] 221 Low voltage coupling wires

[00225] 230 Fluid Outlet

[00226] 240 Generator [00227] 250 Power Management Circuitry

[00228] 800 Control Circuitry

[00229] 805 Processor-based Controller

[00230] 810 Network

[00231] 815 Remote C omputer

[00232] 820 Web Server

[00233] 825 Cloud Storage Server

[00234] 830 Computer Server

[00235] 837 Bus

[00236] 835 Processor

[00237] 840 Memory ( on-transitory Computer Readable Medium)

[00238] 845 Non-volatile storage

[00239] 848 Program (computer executable code)

[00240] 850 Network Interface

[00241] 855 Peripheral Interface

[00242] 865 Display Interface

[00243] 860 External Devices

[00244] Display 870

[00245] 1000 AI Engine

[00246] 1011 Data Extraction Network

[00247] 1012 Data Analysis Network

[00248] 1200 Packet

[00249] 1201 Wake Up Pulse

[00250] 1202 Preamble Field

[00251] 1202 Address Field

[00252] 1204 Payload Field

[00253] 1330 Water Source

[00254] 1320 Pressure Regulator

[00255] 1321 Acoustic pulse generator

[00256] Servo motor 1323

[00257] 1325 Acoustic wave generator 1325

[00258] 1327 Master valve

[00259] 2100 First Feature Extraction Layer [00260] 2200 Region of Interest Pooling Layer [00261] 2300 First Outputting Layer [00262] 2400 Data Vectorizing Layer [00263] 3100 Second Feature Extracting Layer [00264] 3200 Second Outputting Layer

[00265] Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the present disclosure are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the disclosure may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.