SOLAR-POWERED IRRIGATION SYSTEM FOR OFF-GRID FARMING

Abstract

This invention provides a solar-powered irrigation system designed for off-grid agricultural use, utilizing solar panels, pumps, and an irrigation network to provide a reliable and efficient water supply. The system supports drip and sprinkler irrigation methods, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and promotes sustainable farming by conserving water and reducing operational costs.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to agricultural technology and renewable energy systems, focusing on a solar-powered irrigation system designed for off-grid farming. This technology provides a sustainable, energy-efficient solution for irrigation needs, particularly in remote areas where access to conventional energy sources is limited or costly.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Traditional irrigation systems often rely on fossil fuel-powered pumps or grid-connected electricity, both of which contribute to environmental pollution and incur high operational costs. These systems are not viable for farmers in remote locations with limited access to reliable electricity or affordable fuel, leading to inconsistent water supply and crop yields. The current invention addresses these challenges by introducing a solar-powered irrigation system that provides a stable and environmentally friendly source of energy for water pumping. This approach not only reduces reliance on fossil fuels but also supports water conservation through efficient irrigation techniques, making it a sustainable option for modern agriculture. Solar irrigation systems have the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower operational costs for farmers, especially those working in off-grid regions. By leveraging solar energy, these systems provide an accessible solution for reliable water supply, enabling sustainable farming practices and enhanced crop production.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention.
This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.
To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
The invention provides a solar-powered irrigation system comprising solar panels, pumps, inverters, batteries, and an irrigation distribution network. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, which powers water pumps to draw water from sources such as wells or rivers and deliver it to crops through drip or sprinkler irrigation. This system operates independently of the electrical grid, making it ideal for off-grid farming. It incorporates energy storage options to ensure a continuous water supply during periods of low sunlight, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of irrigation. By integrating solar power with efficient irrigation methods, this system minimizes water waste, reduces energy costs, and promotes environmentally sustainable agricultural practices.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The illustrated embodiments of the subject matter will be understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. The following description is intended only by way of example, and simply illustrates certain selected embodiments of devices, systems, and methods that are consistent with the subject matter as claimed herein, wherein:
FIGURE 1: ILLUSTRATES THE OVERALL STRUCTURE OF THE SOLAR-POWERED IRRIGATION SYSTEM, INCLUDING SOLAR PANELS, PUMPS, INVERTERS, AND WATER DISTRIBUTION COMPONENTS.
The figures depict embodiments of the present subject matter for the purposes of illustration only. A person skilled in the art will easily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The detailed description of various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure is described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments are described herein in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of details provided herein is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
It is also to be understood that various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the present disclosure, as well as specific examples, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a"," "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes" and/or "including," when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.
It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions/acts noted may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two figures shown in succession may, in fact, be executed concurrently or may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.
In addition, the descriptions of "first", "second", "third", and the like in the present invention are used for the purpose of description only, and are not to be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, features defining "first" and "second" may include at least one of the features, either explicitly or implicitly.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, e.g., those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.
The solar-powered irrigation system for off-grid farming is designed to harness renewable solar energy to operate water pumps for crop irrigation. The system consists of four main components: solar panels, a solar pump, an inverter or controller, and an optional energy storage unit. Solar panels form the core of the system, converting sunlight into electrical energy through photovoltaic cells. These panels are positioned on a fixed structure or ground-mounted to capture maximum sunlight throughout the day, optimizing energy production.
The electrical energy generated by the solar panels is directed to a solar pump, which draws water from a source, such as a reservoir, river, or well. Depending on the depth of the water source, a surface-mounted pump is used for shallow sources, while a submersible pump is utilized for deeper wells. The pump's function is to transport water into the irrigation system, ensuring a steady and efficient supply to the crops. This solar-powered pump is designed to operate under varying sunlight conditions, providing reliable water flow based on the specific requirements of the farm.
The inverter or controller manages the power from the solar panels, regulating voltage and current to ensure consistent operation of the pump. This regulation prevents overloading and maximizes the system's efficiency, maintaining a stable water supply even under fluctuating sunlight conditions. For added reliability, the system can incorporate batteries or other energy storage devices to store excess solar energy generated during peak sunlight hours. This stored energy is available for irrigation during periods of low sunlight, such as nighttime or cloudy days, enhancing the system's flexibility and continuous operation.
The water distribution network within the system consists of irrigation hoses, drip lines, valves, and sprinklers, designed to deliver water directly to the crops. Drip irrigation is particularly effective for delivering water to the root zone of plants, minimizing evaporation and runoff, which conserves water and reduces wastage. Sprinkler irrigation, suited for larger fields, distributes water across greater areas efficiently. The choice of irrigation method depends on crop type, soil characteristics, and water availability, allowing farmers to customize the system for diverse agricultural needs.
The system's energy efficiency and sustainability are further enhanced by incorporating moisture sensors and automatic timers, which monitor soil moisture levels and optimize watering schedules. These smart components ensure that crops receive adequate hydration without overusing water resources, maximizing productivity and resource efficiency. The solar-powered irrigation system is designed to be scalable, allowing customization based on farm size and specific crop requirements, making it an accessible and adaptable solution for farmers worldwide.
, Claims:1. A solar-powered irrigation system for off-grid farming, comprising solar panels, pumps, inverters, batteries, and an irrigation network, designed to provide a sustainable and efficient water supply for agricultural purposes.
2. The system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein solar panels convert sunlight into electricity to power water pumps, enabling independent operation from the electrical grid.
3. The system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein water pumps draw water from a reservoir or well and deliver it to crops through drip or sprinkler irrigation methods.
4. The system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the inverter or controller regulates electrical power from the solar panels, ensuring stable operation of the pumps.
5. The system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein optional energy storage devices, such as batteries, store excess solar energy for continuous operation during periods of low sunlight.
6. The system as claimed in Claim 1, wherein moisture sensors and automatic timers monitor soil moisture levels and optimize irrigation schedules, enhancing water conservation.

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