Two-conductor moisture activated switch
First Claim
1. A moisture-activated switch, comprising:
- an absolute moisture sensor;
a controller circuit for controlling actuation of a moisture-compensating device,a waterproof enclosure; and
a two-conductor connection,wherein the absolute moisture sensor and the controller circuit are integrated into a single device within the waterproof enclosure for placement within a medium for which moisture is to be controlled,the absolute moisture sensor is coupled to the controller circuit and provides to the controller circuit a signal corresponding to an absolute moisture level of said medium, andthe moisture-activated switch actuates the moisture-compensating device through the two-conductor connection,wherein a first conductor of the two-conductor connection is a supply line, anda second conductor of the two-conductor connection is a return line.
1 Assignment
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
An absolute moisture sensor is coupled to a controller circuit with the combination being integrated into a single device as a moisture-activated switch. The resultant switch is coupled in series with a power control line of a moisture-controlling device and can be placed within the medium for which moisture is to be controlled. In one typical use, the switch is buried in soil for control of valves that supply irrigation water. Since the moisture sensor is selected to provide an absolute reading of moisture, the switch programs itself when power from an external source is first applied. A communication protocol provides for readout of sensor values and allows for a remote reset of the controller.
57 Citations
7 Claims
-
1. A moisture-activated switch, comprising:
-
an absolute moisture sensor; a controller circuit for controlling actuation of a moisture-compensating device, a waterproof enclosure; and a two-conductor connection, wherein the absolute moisture sensor and the controller circuit are integrated into a single device within the waterproof enclosure for placement within a medium for which moisture is to be controlled, the absolute moisture sensor is coupled to the controller circuit and provides to the controller circuit a signal corresponding to an absolute moisture level of said medium, and the moisture-activated switch actuates the moisture-compensating device through the two-conductor connection, wherein a first conductor of the two-conductor connection is a supply line, and a second conductor of the two-conductor connection is a return line. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
-
Specification