Traditional siphon-based irrigation systems are affordable and easy to set up, but they’re labour-intensive. Each siphon tube must be manually filled with water (“charged”) and positioned by hand. Once water flow starts, you can’t pause or restart without repeating the whole process. This makes managing large irrigation areas time-consuming and inefficient.
The Invention
This invention introduces a smart, automated siphon irrigation system. It features a curved water pipe (conduit) that draws water from a higher source (like a canal) to a lower field using gravity. A one-way inlet valve lets water in and prevents it from flowing backward. Most importantly, a motorized outlet valve—powered by battery or solar energy—can be opened or closed remotely via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or a wired connection.
What’s New
Unlike traditional siphons, this system only needs to be charged once. After that, water flow can be started or stopped at the push of a button. The outlet valve keeps the pipe full of water when closed, so the system is always ready to operate again—no manual resetting required. Multiple units can be linked into a network, all controlled by a central system.
Benefits
- Eliminates daily manual setup for irrigation
- Saves time and labour, especially for large fields
- Allows remote or automated control based on time, weather, or soil sensors
- Delivers precise amounts of water using built-in flow meters
- Lowers water waste and ensures even irrigation
Broader Impact
This smart irrigation solution could revolutionize water management in agriculture—especially in areas with limited resources. By reducing manual labour and improving water efficiency, it supports more sustainable farming and helps farmers adapt to climate and labour challenges.