Tiered control networks

Abstract

Smart sensors and distributed control use networks to expand the area of knowledge and influence. A spatially variable center pivot irrigation control system has been developed that uses four different network media to communicate between control nodes and to smart sensors. A single efficient network protocol orchestrates the instrumentation and control information flow. Low cost nodes implement the required control, collect data from sensors and serve as network bridges to pass data from one network media to another. Performance benchmarks demonstrate the capacity for instrumentation and control.