CN1638621A - Remote control water flow and drainage system - Google Patents

Abstract

A remote water flow and drain system (130) for supplying water to or draining water from a user device (70) through a single water tube (22) during different times includes a water passage (22) with two ends, one for use with the user device (70) such as a plant pot (70) and the other connected to a reversible pump (150). The system (130) is controlled by a master controller (152), preferably in combination with a remote control (34). The system (130) is connectable to a water source (136) and a location (146) for draining water, selectively in fluid communication with the water source (136), the water source (136) supplying water to the user device (70) through the water passage (22) during one period, and draining water from the user device (70) and delivering the drained water to the drain location (146) during another period in fluid communication with the drain location (146).

Description

Remote control water flow and drainage system

technical field

The invention relates to a water supply method, in particular to a method for controllably supplying water to and draining water from the device, and a remote control water flow and drainage system for implementing the method.

Background technique

Various water supply systems have been developed for different purposes. For example, as described in US Patent No. 4,909,435 issued May 20, 1990 to Kidouchi et al., water temperature and flow rate controllers are used in hot water supply systems, especially bathtubs. Kidouchi et al. describe a hot water supply system with a remote water flow controller. A hot water supply system consists of a water pipe connected at one end to a device capable of controllably mixing hot and cold water in order to supply water at various temperatures and at various speeds through the pipe, and connected at the other end to the consumer. The hot water supply system also includes a drainage function, which is achieved through the bathtub drain under the gravity of the water. The drain cock confirmation switch is used to receive a signal from the remote flow controller to open and close the bathtub drain cock.

Another type of water supply and drainage system is well known and is used with floor cleaning equipment to circulate cleaning fluid. In such systems, known as continuous water circulation, a liquid cleaning solution is sprayed onto the surface to be cleaned while a vacuum source creates a high velocity air stream which, in the case of carpet, moves the atomized liquid towards the surface, along the surface or into the material , then up and away from the surface. This procedure draws dirt, debris and other foreign matter from the floor surface along the cleaning solution. An example of these systems is described in US Patent No. 4,083,077, issued April 11, 1978 to Knight et al. Knight et al. describe a hand tool configured for detachable connection to a fluid cleaning machine, such as a steam cleaning device. The hollow head of the hand tool has a front region and a rear region forming a suction chamber and a spray chamber, respectively. The fluid solution tube is surrounded and protected by a soft straw releasably coupled to the neck of the hand tool. A flow controller interconnects the fluid solution tube and the nozzle. The fluid cleaning machine of Knight et al. also includes a dispensing tank that holds a special fluid solution for cleaning textiles, carpets, etc., consisting of water and various cleaning agents, deodorants, etc. The recovery tank finally collects the spent fluid solution and residual dirt, debris, etc. One side of the steam cleaner is equipped with a switch and control panel that can be activated when the power cord is coupled to an electrical outlet. A soft fluid solution hose and a surrounded soft vacuum hose connect the hand tool to the steam cleaner.

These water supply systems of the prior art are usually designed for special purposes and, in general, cannot be applied in different installations. For example, the water supply system of Kidouchi et al. does not drain used water from tanks, which do not have their own drains and drains. The water supply and drainage systems of Knight et al. are not adapted to supply the required volumes of water to fill the container and then drain the required volume from said container, respectively. Therefore, there is a need for a water supply and drainage system that overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art water supply and drainage systems.

Contents of the invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide a method and system for supplying and draining water in required quantities.

In general terms, the present invention provides a method of supplying and draining water comprising the steps of supplying and draining a desired amount of water to and from a device through a single water pipe. Control the water supply and discharge through a single water pipe in the desired program.

Preferably, at the remote end of the water pipe relative to the device, the water flow mode of the water pipe is switched between a first water flow mode and a second water flow mode. In the first water flow mode, the water pipe is in fluid communication with the water source. In the two-water circulation mode, the water pipe and the drainage position are in fluid communication. Preferably, the water flow mode of the water conduit is switched between the first and second water flow modes in response to a signal sent from a controller located proximate to the device or from a sensor associated with the device.

Also preferably, the water is supplied or drained by means at the distal end of the water pipe for creating a fluid pressure differential within the water pipe between the water pipe end of the device and the water pipe distal end. Preferably, between the first fluid pressure mode and the second fluid pressure mode, the pressure in the water pipe is alternately generated in response to a signal sent from a controller located in the vicinity of the device or in response to a signal sent from a sensor associated with the device. Fluid pressure differential, where a first fluid pressure mode is used to supply water to the unit and a second fluid pressure mode is used to drain water from the unit.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a water flow and drainage system is used for water supply and drainage. A water channel is provided in the system, the water channel having a first end adapted for use with the device, supplying water to and draining water from the device. A device, such as a pump coupled to a reversible motor, is connected to the second end of the water channel for creating a fluid pressure differential within the water channel between the first end and the second end of the water channel. Means are also provided for establishing water communication between the water channel and a water source or drain location for supplying water to or draining the device through the water channel during different time intervals. The means for establishing water flow is preferably a valve and tube bypass system, connected together eg with a pump with reversible motor.

In one embodiment of the invention, the system includes a master controller associated with, for example, pumps with reversible motors and valves and piping systems to control water supply and drainage operations. A remote controller and a sensor associated with the device are provided so that the main controller controls water supply and drainage operations in response to signals sent from the remote controller and the sensor. The system includes at least a portion of the water passage, which is a hose. The water tube first end defines a water channel first end adapted for use with the device.

The system according to another embodiment of the present invention further includes a plurality of water pipe sections connected together to form a water distribution network. The water distribution network comprises an opening defining a second end of the water channel, said second end being connected, for example, to a pump with a reversible motor, said other openings being selectively connected to a flexible hose so that when the rest of the water distribution network When the opening is closed, the branch of the water distribution network between the one opening and the selected opening defines a water passage together with the soft water pipe, the one opening is connected to the pump, and the selected opening is connected with the soft water pipe. Therefore, water can be supplied to and drained from one of the plurality of devices each time one of the plurality of devices is selectively connected to the respective openings of the water distribution network. These devices can be located in various locations and each can be connected to the nearest opening of the water distribution network.

A similar water supply and drainage system is described in applicant's co-pending US Patent Application No. 09/945620, incorporated herein by reference. However, the water supply and drainage system described in US Patent Application No. 09/945620 is limited to use with plant pots for watering the plant pots, however, it is only possible with the water flow and drainage system according to the present invention one of the applications.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a water supply and drainage device for supplying water to or draining water from an apparatus. The device comprises a container comprising a first chamber for containing a source of water, typically fresh water, and a second chamber for collecting used water. A pump is disposed in the selected fluid channel with one of the first and second chambers, the pump coupled to the reversible motor. The device is provided with a tube comprising a first end connected to the pump and a second end adapted for use with the device. Means are provided for controlling the pump in selective fluid communication with one of the first and second chambers, and for controlling the motor in operation, whereby the motor drives the pump in either direction as desired to move the pump from the first chamber to the Source water is supplied to the device, or used water is drained from the device and fed into the second chamber. The device according to one embodiment of the invention is made portable and the container contains a contact safety valve to allow air to flow through the valve while preventing water from overflowing if the container is tipped over on its side.

The present invention provides a novel water supply and drainage method, and water flow and drainage system implementing the method, which can be used in various applications. The advantages and features of the present invention will be better understood with reference to the preferred embodiments of the present invention described hereinafter.

Description of drawings

Having substantially described the characteristics of the invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will now be illustrated by way of diagrams with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a water supply and pumping method according to the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an application of the present invention, wherein the method of the present invention is used for changing fish tank water;

Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating another application of the present invention, wherein the method according to the present invention is used for watering potted plants according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 3a is a top view of a schematic diagram illustrating the method of the present invention for watering potted plants according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 3b is a cross-sectional view of a schematic diagram illustrating the method of the present invention for extracting excess water from the basin illustrated in Figure 3a;

Figure 4 is a perspective view of a remote control used in one embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram of a central water flow and drainage system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating the hydroelectric connector with its indicator cover attached thereto;

Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating the water and electricity connector shown in Fig. 6 with its indicator cover removed and in a connected state;

Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a connectable water flow and drainage system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a portable water flow and drainage system according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 10 is a perspective view of the portable water flow and drainage system shown in Figure 9;

Figure 10a is a cross-sectional view of the contact safety valve installed in the portable water flow and drainage system shown in Figure 9;

Figure 10b is a cross-sectional view of the contact safety valve shown in Figure 10a, illustrating its vertical position.

Detailed ways

Referring to these drawings, and in particular to FIG. 1 , the water flow and drainage system for water supply and pumping, schematically illustrated and generally indicated by the numeral 20 , comprises a single water pipe 22 . One end 24 of the water tube 22 is adapted for use with a user device 26 for supplying or drawing water therefrom. The distal end 28 of the water pipe 22 relative to the user unit 26 is connected to a hydroelectric system 30 which also includes a water source and a place for drainage. The hydroelectric system 30 is also electrically connected to the main controller 32 so that the desired amount of water can be supplied to and withdrawn from the user device 26 during different periods of time through a single water pipe. During operation, master controller 32 sends a signal to hydroelectric system 30 to switch the water flow mode of water pipe 22 at remote end 28 between a first water flow mode and a second water flow mode. In the first water circulation mode, the water pipe 22 is in fluid communication with a water source, and in the second water circulation mode, the water pipe 22 is in fluid communication with a place for draining water. Master controller 32 also sends signals to hydroelectric system 30 to create a fluid pressure differential in water pipe 22 between ends 24 and 28 to allow water to flow into water pipe 22 from either direction, for example by means of a pump in combination with a reversible motor. By reversing the motor controlled by the main controller 32, the water pressure mode can be selected between water supply and water pumping. The pump combined with the reversible motor can be replaced by having two pumps in the hydroelectric system 30, one of which pumps water into the consumer unit 26 through the water pipe 22, and the other pumps the water out of the consumer unit 26 through the water pipe 22 and delivers the water into a place for drainage. These two pumps are also controlled by the master controller 32 .

The master controller 32 can be manually operated to signal the hydro system 30 to supply the required amount of water from the water source to the user device 26 at the same time, and to signal the hydro system 30 to draw all the water from the user device 26 at another time. The required amount of water and the required amount of water is delivered to the place for drainage. However, this operation may also be performed automatically by the main controller 32 in response to a signal sent from a remote control 34 located in the vicinity of the user device 26 . The remote control 34 is electrically connected to the main controller 32 either wirelessly as shown by the dashed line 36 or by a cable as shown by the dashed line 38 . The main controller 32 may also receive signals from sensors (not shown) associated with the user device 26 via wires connected to the user device 26 as indicated by dashed line 40 . The cable 38 and wire 40 can be directly connected to each other without going through the remote control 34 . In this arrangement, the water supply and drain process is initiated manually on the remote control 34, and is carried out automatically step by step in response to signals sent from sensors in the user unit 26 according to a predetermined program stored in the main controller 32 or the remote control 34. These processes until the end of the process.

In order to understand the complexity of the conditions required for the water supply and drainage method according to the present invention, and to illustrate the various devices of the present invention, different types of user devices are described below. It is to be noted that like reference numerals are used in the different views of the drawings to refer to like parts and features of the invention according to various applications and embodiments of the invention described herein. Accordingly, descriptions of similar components and features will not be repeated.

The user device 26A illustrated in FIG. 2 is a fish tank 42 which is cleaned using a suction tube 44 connected to the pipe 22 of the water flow and drainage system 20 . When the aquarium 42 is serviced with the water flow and drainage system 20 for the first time, the system 20 must be programmed.

Referring to Figures 1 and 4, programming may be performed using the remote control 34 illustrated in detail in Figure 4 . In order to write the cleaning program of the fish tank 42, press the "program (programming)" key 46 on the keyboard 45 of the remote controller 34, then repeatedly press the "user (user)" key 48 until "aquarium (fish tank)" is displayed on the remote controller 34 on the display screen 50. If the system 20 is servicing more than one aquarium, the remote control 34 will display the user device name and identifier, eg "Aquarium 2". The main controller 32 creates a file with the name "aquarium". Suction pipe 44 is inserted in fish tank 42 water then, presses key 52 on the keyboard 45 of remote controller 34, starts to draw water from fish tank 42. When the main controller 32 activates the hydroelectric system 30 in response to the pumping signal sent from the remote control 34 by pressing the "drain (drainage)" key 52, the hydroelectric system 30 creates a vacuum in the tube 22, which draws water from the fish tank through the end of the suction tube 44. 42 in pumping. The pumping speed can be adjusted by pressing the "up" key 54 and "down" 56 on the keypad 45 of the remote control 34. A properly chosen pumping speed will lift sediment in the gravel 58 on the bottom of the fish tank 42 with the pumped water, but will not substantially disturb the gravel 58 .

When the desired amount of water has been drawn from the fish tank 42, press key 60 on the keypad 45 of the remote control 34 to terminate the draining time. Alternatively, the suction tube 44 may simply be removed from the water in the fish tank 42 so that the pumping period ends. The water flow meter in the hydropower system no longer detects water, and sends a signal to the main controller 32, and after a few seconds, the main controller 32 will cut off the vacuum in the water pipe 22.

The amount of water that has been extracted from the fish tank 42 and the pumping speed are saved in the file created for this specific fish tank 42 in the main controller 32 .

In order to start to refill the fish tank 42 after cleaning the fish tank 42, press the "water (water filling)" key 62 to start the hydroelectric system 30, supply the required amount of fresh water to the fish tank 42 with the selected temperature, and press the keyboard of the remote control 34 The "temperature (temperature)" key 64 on 45 can adjust the temperature and set the water flow to the maximum according to the data currently saved in the file. When wanting to change the water flow rate, you can press "up (up)" key 54 and "down (down)" 56 to adjust the water flow rate. When the same amount of water as that drawn from the fish tank 42 has been supplied to the fish tank 42, the water supply time is completed and terminated. Save the adjusted flow rate data in this fish tank file.

Before concluding this first operation, the remote control 34 will request via its display 50 the alarm input data, and then, in order to set said alarm, the scheduled date for the next cleaning operation can be entered. All user device files stored in the main controller 32 are monitored daily. The main controller 32 of the system 20 will generate an alarm in the form of a buzzer or indicator light when any user device has an expired service period.

Once the file for a specific user device, in this application the fish tank 42, has been saved in the master controller 32 of the system 20, the water flow and drainage system 20 can be automatically used in future cleaning operations of the fish tank 42. To initiate automatic operation, select the fish tank 42 as the user device by pressing the "user" key 48 on the keypad 45 of the remote control 34, and then press the "drain" key 52. The suction tube 44 is inserted into the fish tank 42 and the water is drawn out of the fish tank 42 along with the sediment on the gravel 58 . Water and sediment are drawn from the tank 42 at a pre-programmed drain rate, and when the amount of water drawn from the tank 42 reaches an amount according to data stored in the tank file, the drain period is automatically cut off. After a predetermined short interval, fresh water is automatically supplied at the temperature and speed saved in the file. When programming is performed, for example by pressing a function key 66 on the keypad 45 of the remote control 34, the predetermined short time interval between the drain time and the water supply time can be adjusted. When the required amount of water is replenished according to the data stored in the main controller 32 file, the main controller 32 will automatically shut down the water flow and drainage system 20 .

It should be noted that the remote control 34 is provided with a pair of fixing members 68 on its back side, which are convenient for allowing the remote control 34 to be detachably connected thereto at any position along the length of the hose 22 .

Referring to Figures 1 and 3, another application of the water flow and drainage system 20 is described below. In this application, the user device 26B used with the water flow and drainage system 20 is a plant pot 70 ready to be watered automatically using a reservoir 88 for storing water for extended time between waterings. This application arose from the method of watering rooted plants in soil in non-drainage pots, which is described in Applicant's US Patent Application No. 09/945620. The method described in this US patent application comprises the steps of introducing water under pressure into the bottom of the pot through a water channel formed of impermeable material, extending from the bottom of the pot up and out of the pot until the water covers the top of the soil in the pot; The portion of the water not absorbed by the soil is then drained from the pot through the same channel. A space is preferably provided between the pot floor and the soil bottom, the space being adapted to collect water drained from the soil and to be in fluid communication with the channel.

The plant pot 70 includes an open top 72 , a closed bottom 74 and side walls 76 extending between the top 72 and the bottom 74 in a frusto-conical shape. A perforated baffle 78 divides the plant pot 70 into upper and lower sections. The upper part is used to hold the soil 80 in which the plant roots are buried. The lower portion is formed as a water reservoir 82 for containing water in the plant pot 70 . The perforated barrier 78 allows water to pass freely through it downwardly or upwardly while inhibiting soil particles from falling into the reservoir 82 . A tube 84 extends from the reservoir 82 proximate the bottom 74 of the plant pot 70 , through the perforated baffle 78 and up the side wall 76 . The upper end of the tube 84 protrudes from the open top 72 of the plant pot 70 and is connected to the water pipe 22 of the water flow and drainage system 20 using the water connector 86 of the water flow and drainage system 20 and the water socket 100 of the plant pot 70 .

Switches 88 and 90 are located at the top and bottom of reservoir 82 respectively, each of which is actuated by float 92 . A water level detector 94 is located on top of the soil 80 in the plant pot 70 and is activated by contact with water. The switches 88, 90 and detector 94, which acts as a water level sensor, are connected to the remote control 34 via the cable 102, the water connector 86 and the cable 96.

A water connector 86 connects to the water hose 22 and to a signal lead 38 which may be an optical fiber depending on the type of sensor used with the device 26 . However, in this embodiment of the invention, the conductors 38 are wires. The electrical wires 38 are preferably incorporated in the wall of the hose 22 so that the electrical wires 38 are protected and can be conveniently moved along with the hose 22 . A water receptacle 100 is connected to the outer ends of the tube 84 and an electrical wire 102 electrically connected to each of the sensors 88 , 90 and 94 . The cable 96 between the remote control 34 and the water connector 86 is optional because the remote control 34 is wirelessly connected to the main controller 32 which in turn is connected to the water connector 86 by the wire 38 . When the water connector 86 and the water receptacle 100 are connected together, the cable 102 is connected to the respective cable 96 and wire 38 using metal contacts (not indicated), and the connection tube 84 is in fluid communication with the tube 22 .

The utility socket 100 includes a memory chip 104 . The remote control 34 can read the data of the memory chip 104 directly or through the main controller 32, but the remote control 34 cannot change the data. The memory chip 104 is programmed for a particular plant pot 70 and contains an identification number, preferably arbitrarily chosen as a high number, along with a code that includes all other data required for automatic watering.

When the water and electricity connector 86 and the water and electricity socket 100 were connected together for the first time, the remote controller 34 read the identification number stored in the memory chip 104 and sent it to the main controller 32, or the main controller 32 directly read the identification Number. The master controller 32 compares this number with other identification numbers stored in the system 20, and because the read identification number cannot match any identification number already stored in the system 20, the user who continues to read The identification number of device 26B creates a new file. The master controller 32 determines a default number for the plant pot 70, such as "pot 8", for display on the display screen 50 of the remote control 34 (see FIG. 4). The default number of plant pots 70 shown can be modified if desired. It is then suggested that a label or label (not shown) be affixed to the plant pot 70 representing the number, letter and/or name assigned to that particular plant pot 70 . The other data in the memory chip 104 is now saved in a file created with the specific identification number of the plant pot 70 .

After the water flow and drainage system 20 is connected to the plant pot 70 , the water supply and drainage process can be started manually or automatically because the main controller 32 provides a pre-programmed program using the parameters read from the memory chip 104 . After starting the water supply and drain process, the master controller 32 turns on the water flow through the hose 22 at a preset rate to water the potted plants using the flood and drain watering method. Water is fed into the reservoir 82 of the plant pot 70 via a pipe 84 . When the water in the reservoir 82 rises up the float 92 activating a switch 90 on the top of the reservoir 82, the water flow rate is reduced. Water is then continuously supplied to the plant pot 70 at a reduced rate through the pipe 84 so that the soil 80 is flooded with water. Water supply to plant pot 70 is shut off when water level detector 94 detects water and sends a signal to water flow and drainage system 20 .

A few seconds after the water supply to the plant pot 70 is cut off, the water flow and drainage system 20 begins to draw water from the plant pot 70 through the hose 22 and the tube 84 . When the water level in the plant pot 70 drops below the top of the reservoir 82 , causing the float 92 to close the switch 90 , the water flow and drainage system 20 stops pumping water from the plant pot 70 . Accordingly, the reservoir 82 of the plant pot 70 contains water to continue to provide moisture to the soil 80 of the plant pot 70 for a period of time utilizing a plurality of wick members 106 extending upwardly from the reservoir 82, Beyond the perforated barrier 78 , access is made to the lower portion of the soil 80 contained in the upper portion of the plant pot 70 .

During the start-up process, the water supply and drain process is observed and, if necessary, adjusted immediately or at any time. The adjusted values are then substituted for the predetermined parameters in the file 26B for this particular device, which in this application is the plant pot 70 . Also measure the water quantity from the top floor of the reservoir 82 to the water level at the open end 72 of the plant pot 70, this data is recorded in the file of the master controller 32, the switch 90 is located at the top layer of the reservoir 82, and the water level detector 94 is positioned at the plant pot 70 open end. In the event of a failure of the water level detector 94, this parameter of water quantity is then used as a preventive backup data, so that when the preset water quantity has been supplied after actuating the switch 90, although the water level detector 94 does not send a corresponding signal, the water flow and drainage system 20 will also automatically shut off the water supply. The possibility of water overflowing the plant pot 70 is thereby eliminated. The next planned service date can be entered into the water flow and drainage system 20 using the remote control 34 . The master controller 32 will then detect the alarm when the scheduled service date is reached.

In the next water supply and drainage service, when the water connector 86 and the socket 100 are connected together and the water remaining in the reservoir 82 maintains the float 90 floating above the switch 88 on the bottom of the reservoir 82, the main control The device 32 will recognize the inactive state of the switch 88. This indicates that there is still water remaining in the reservoir 82, and the file of the plant pot 70 stored in the main controller 32 will be overwritten to have a longer time interval between water supply and drain service processes.

Reference is now made to Figures 1 and 3a, 3b. The water flow and drainage system 20 can also be used to manually water potted plants. In manual operation, the water flow and drainage system 20 can be used to water plants, which are grown in plant pots similar to plant pots 70, which are specially designed to use bottom-up watering methods, but as shown 3a and 3b can also be used to water plants growing in plant pots currently available on the market. Apparatus 26C for use with water flow and drainage system 20 includes plant pot 106 having open top 108 , closed bottom 110 and side walls 112 extending between top 108 and bottom 110 in a frusto-conical shape. A pan 116 is located below the bottom 110 of the plant pot 106 for collecting black water that drains from the soil 80 through one or more drainage holes 114 located in the closed bottom 110 of the plant pot 106 .

Instead of the water connector 86 of FIG. 3 , an adapter 118 with a flat outlet connects to the hose 22 of the water flow and drainage system 20 . In manual operation, the water supply time is manually started using the remote control 34 of the water flow and drainage system 20 . The adapter 118 is positioned above the open top 108 of the plant pot 106 so that the water flow provided by the water flow and drainage system 20 is delivered through the adapter 118 to the top of the soil 80 . Water entering the plant pot 106 from the open top 108 of the plant pot 106 spreads, is absorbed by the soil 80 , and flows downstream through the drainage holes 114 into the tray 116 . As soon as black water is observed in the pan 116, the water flow and the water supply period of the drainage system 20 are immediately manually terminated. The pan 116 takes a short time to collect all the black water that drains from the soil 80 of the plant pot 106, then to start the drainage period, place the flat outlet of the adapter 118 into the black water in the pan 116, a water flow and drainage system can also be used The remote control 34 of 20 manually starts the drainage time period. The drain period can be manually terminated using the remote control 34 when no black water is left in the pan 116 . Alternatively, the water flow and drainage system 20 may be automatically shut off when a dry condition in the hose 22 is detected.

If the water flow rate during the water supply period is relatively high, and the black water collected in the pan 116 grows rapidly to a level near the top edge of the pan 116, in order to prevent the water from overflowing the pan 116, the drain period may have to be drained immediately after the water supply period ends. start.

The applications described with reference to Figures 2, 3, 3a, 3b are only examples of the use of the method and system of the invention, the invention being described with reference to Figure 1 . Further applications that can be used with the present invention may be further recognized. For example, the water flow and drainage system 20 of FIG. 1 may be used with specially designed floor cleaning equipment that sprays water under pressure onto the floor surface for cleaning, and during various periods of time, vacuums the floor surface to remove black dirt. water. A specially designed floor cleaning device is not part of the present invention, so it will not be described further.

FIG. 5 illustrates the central water flow and drainage system, indicated generally at 130 . The illustrated central water flow and drainage system 130 is intended for use with plant pots of the same type as the plant pots 70 described with reference to FIG. 3 . It should be understood that various devices may be used with the central water flow and drainage system 130 in the various applications described above.

The central water flow and drainage system 130 includes a mains system 132 , eg preferably arranged in the basement of a house equipped with the water flow and drainage system 130 . The mains system 132 is connected to a water source via a solenoid valve 134 for fluid communication. The water source is a low pressure water tank 136, which is connected to the cold and hot water supply lines through solenoid valves 138 and 140, respectively. The header system 132 is also connected directly to the drain inlet 146 through solenoid valves 142 and 144 and indirectly with an auxiliary collector 148, respectively. Auxiliary collector 148 is optional. The manifold system 132 is also connected to a pump 150 which is coupled to and suitably driven by a reversible motor 151 . Preferably, the low pressure water tank 136 is placed in the basement, while the auxiliary collector 148 can be placed outside.

Preferably, a main controller unit 152 and a power supply unit 154 are also provided in the basement, which are connected to the electrical system in the basement. The main controller unit 152 is electrically connected to the solenoid valves 134 , 138 , 140 , 142 and 144 . The main controller unit 152 is also electrically connected to the motor 151, and a pressure sensor 156 and a temperature sensor 158 mounted on the low-pressure water tank 136 for measuring the internal pressure and water temperature of the tank 136, respectively.

The water flow and drainage system 130 is equipped with a water distribution network 160 comprising water pipe sections connected together. The water distribution grid 160 is connected at one of its openings to the pump 150 and at the other opening is optionally connected to the hose 22 by means of a water and electricity connector 162 which will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7 . The openings of these water distribution networks 160 for connection of hoses 22 can be connected to indoor watering outlets 164 fixed in walls and on different floors at various places in the house. The water distribution network 160 may further include one or more openings outside the house controlled by a manual valve 166 for selectively connecting the water hose 22 outside the house. A water flow meter 168 is included in the water distribution network 160 close to the pump 150 so that as water flows through the water distribution network 160 the amount of water will be measured regardless of the selection of the outlet 164 connected to the hose 22 .

The main controller unit 152 is electrically connected to the water flow meter 168 to receive an electrical signal indicative of the measured water flow. Wires are also provided to connect the main controller unit 152 with indoor watering outlets 164 at various locations in the house and on different floors for bi-directional transmission of electrical signals, as will be described in further detail below.

The indoor watering outlet 164 is protected by a cover 170 in FIG. 6 . The indoor watering outlet 164 is adapted to be fixed in the interior wall 172 and has a number of electrical contacts 174 and an opening 176 which is wired to the main controller unit 152 shown in FIG. One part of the pipeline for fluid communication. To prevent cover 170 from being accidentally removed by outlet 164 , cover 170 includes a mechanical interlock 178 for interlocking with a corresponding portion of outlet 164 . When the cover 170 is interlocked with the outlet 164, in order to prevent water leakage, a plug 180 is equipped with the cover 170 to hermetically close the opening 176 in which the plug 180 is accommodated. The cover 170 also includes a short circuit 173 and an indicator light 175 which, when the cover 170 is secured to the outlet 164, makes electrical contact with the corresponding contacts of the outlet 164 so that when this outlet is covered, the main controller of FIG. 5 Unit 152 identifies that outlet 164 is not used. Indicator light 175 may include an indicator for "system in use" and an indicator for "alarm" when the water flow and drainage system 130 of FIG. , the indicator for "system in use" lights up, and the indicator for "alarm" lights up when the scheduled date for the watering operation arrives. An optional buzzer (not shown) may also be installed in the cover 170 to generate an audible alarm when the "alarm" indicator is illuminated.

Cover 170 can be removed by squeezing and pulling it off. Once the cover 170 has been removed from the outlet 164 , the water hose 22 may be connected to the outlet 164 via the water connector 162 as shown in FIG. 7 . To interlock with corresponding components of the outlet 164 so that the connector 162 can be releasably secured thereto, the utility connector 162 has a mechanical interlock 182 similar to the mechanical interlock 178 of the cover 170 . The hydroelectric connector 162 is connected to one end of the soft water pipe 22 which is not connected to the hydroelectric connector 86 (see FIG. 5 ), and when the hydroelectric system connector 162 is fixed to the outlet 164, it provides a connection between the soft water pipe 22 and the water distribution network 160. Watertight connection of the piping section. When the water and electricity connector 162 is connected to the outlet 164, the electric wire 38 combined with the hose 22 is connected to a contact (not indicated) of the water and electricity connector 162 that provides an electrical connection with the contact 174 of the outlet 164, so that from FIG. The signal transmitted in the plant pot 70 shown in FIG. 5 is transmitted to the main controller unit 152 shown in FIG. 5 through this connection. As an alternative to the short circuit 172 in the cover 170, a resistor 184 is provided in the hydroelectric connector 162, which is adapted to make contact with the contacts 174 contained in the outlet 164 and designed to be a short circuit with the cover 170 172 contacts. Thus, when the hydro connector 162 is connected to this particular outlet 164, the main controller unit 152 (FIG. 5) can recognize that one of the outlets 164 is used in operation. The water flow and drainage system 130 of FIG. 5 is programmed to allow watering operations only when the main controller unit 152 of FIG. 5 detects that one of the covers 170 is removed and the hose 22 is connected to that particular outlet 164 . Thus, the possibility of mishandling is reduced, whereby the risk of water spillage is minimized.

Referring again to FIG. 5, the central water flow and drainage system 130 may be used with an outdoor outlet 165 that includes a threaded socket for connection. A hose with a conventional connector can be connected to the conventional threaded socket of the outdoor outlet 165 . In order to run the outdoor operation, the "user" key 48 on the keypad 45 of the remote control 34 shown in FIG. 4 must be pressed to select the outdoor operation. Once outdoor operation is selected, water supply and drain operations may only be activated when all indoor outlets 164 are covered. Valve 166 must be manually opened when outdoor operation begins, and valve 166 must be manually closed after outdoor operation has ended. Water supply and drain time periods for outdoor operation can also be run manually.

In this embodiment of the invention, the central water flow and drainage system 130 uses the low pressure tank 136 to automatically prime the pump 150 by momentarily turning on the solenoid valve 134, since most pumps will not function properly or be damaged if operated dry. destroy. The pressure sensor 156 measures the internal pressure of the low-pressure water tank 136 , and the temperature sensor 158 measures the water temperature in the low-pressure water tank 136 . The main controller unit 152 operates the solenoid valves 134, 138, 140 and 142 to ensure that the water temperature is correct and the tank pressure is within the required range according to the files in the main controller unit 152. For example, if the water temperature is too low, the main controller unit 152 sends a signal to the solenoid valve 140 to open it, allowing hot water to flow into the low pressure tank 136 . If the low-pressure water tank 136 is almost full and the temperature is still too low, the main controller unit 152 sends a signal to the solenoid valve 140 to close it, and then sends a signal to the solenoid valves 134 and 142 in order to discharge the required amount of water from the low-pressure water tank 136. The signal opens them, then the main controller unit 152 sends a signal to the solenoid valves 134 and 142 to close them, and in order to supply more hot water, sends a signal to the solenoid valve 140 to open it again.

When using the remote controller 34 to start the water supply time period, the remote controller 34 is pressed on the flexible water pipe 22 at the end close to the plant pot 70, and sends a signal to the solenoid valve 134 to start it, and the electrode 151 starts to drive the pump 150 to transfer water from the low-pressure water supply to the solenoid valve 134. Pot 136 pumps to plant pot 70 . The distribution network 160 branches between the pump 150 and selected indoor outlets 164 connected to the hose 22 together with the hose 22 to form a single water channel for supplying water to and draining the plant pot 70 . The water flow during the water supply period is measured by the water flow meter 168, and this information is sent to the main controller 152, and then in order to ensure the required flow rate, the main controller 152 sends a signal to the motor 151 to adjust its speed.

In response to a stop signal received in the main controller unit 152, the motor 151, the pump 150, the solenoid valves 134, 138 and 140 are turned off. When receiving the drainage signal in the main controller unit 152, according to the written program or signal, the signal is manually sent from the remote controller 34, the main controller unit 152 turns on the solenoid valve 142, and starts the motor 151 in a certain direction The pump 150 is driven to draw water from the plant pot 70 through a single water channel used to supply water to the same plant pot 70 . The water flow meter 168 measures the drainage flow rate and displays the value on the display panel of the remote controller 34 . The water flow meter 168 can detect a no-water condition and when no more water is being drawn from the plant pot 70, a "no-water" message is displayed on the display panel of the remote control 34. Then, the main controller unit 152 turns off the motor 151 and the pump 150, and thus closes the solenoid valve 142.

Referring now to Figures 4 and 5, by pressing the key 48 on the keyboard 45 of the remote control 34, the auxiliary collector 148 can be selected to collect the drain water, and the display 50 of the remote control 34 will display "from: user to: auxiliary tank (from: user to: auxiliary tank)". Once the auxiliary collector 148 is selected, the solenoid valve 142 will be signaled to close it and the solenoid valve 144 will be signaled to open it during the drain time so that drain water is directed and collected in the auxiliary collector 148 . When the auxiliary collector 148 is full, the drain water in the auxiliary collector 148 will automatically flow into the drain 146 . Drain water collected in auxiliary collector 148 may also be used in other applications. For example, water drained from a bathtub and collected in auxiliary collector 148 can be used to wash a vehicle, or water drained from a fishing tank and collected in auxiliary collector 148 via a hose connected to outdoor outlet 165 Can be used for watering potted plants 70. In this case, the auxiliary collector 148 must be selected as the water source by pressing the "user (user)" key 48 on the keyboard 45 of the remote controller 34 until the display 50 of the remote controller 34 shows "from: auxiliary tank to: user ( From: Aux Tank To: User)" to select. When the auxiliary collector 148 is selected as the water source, the main controller unit 152 will turn on the solenoid valve 144 and turn off the other valves when the water supply period is activated. Thus, the motor 151 drives the pump 150 in a direction to draw water from the auxiliary collector 148 into the plant pot 70 through the selected branch of the water distribution grid 160 and the hose 22 .

Preferably, the piping section forming the water distribution network 160 is built within an enclosure structure similar to a central vacuum system. The central water flow and drainage system 130 can therefore be conveniently used by connecting the hose 22 to the indoor plant pot 70 using any indoor outlet 164 in the house close to the plant pot 70 . After the water supply and drainage process of this plant pot 70 is completed, the flexible water pipe 22 is disconnected from this plant pot 70, and then it can be connected to the next plant pot (not shown) to be watered. If the next plant pot is close enough to the same indoor outlet 164, the water hose 22 can remain connected to the same indoor outlet 164 for watering the next plant pot, or if desired, the hose 22 can be disconnected from the indoor outlet 164 , and connected to another indoor outlet 164 that is closer to the next plant pot to be watered. For homes or offices where central water flow and drainage systems cannot be applied, because installation is not easy or not an option, such as in rental apartments, similar systems have been developed that can be connected to kitchen or bathroom taps and sinks.

Figure 8 illustrates a connectable water flow and drainage system 183 comprising a main controller unit 152 with a power supply unit 154 controlling a reversible motor 151 coupled to and adapted to drive the pump 150. Via a water flow meter 168 to which the pump 150 is connected at one end of the water hose 22 . The water hose 22 is connected at its other end to a water and electricity connector 86 through which a water and electricity socket 100 is connected to, for example, a plant pot 70 . The remote controller 34 as described with reference to FIG. 4 is mounted on the water hose 22 adjacent to the plant pot 70 . Pump 150 is connected at its other end to proportional solenoid valve 185 and solenoid valve 186 for selectively establishing fluid passage with water supply hose 188 or drain hose 190 . The water supply hose 188 is adapted to be connected to a conventional water faucet 192 and the drain hose 190 is adapted to be placed in a conventional sink 194 . To connect the power supply unit 154 to a conventional power outlet, a power cord 196 is connected thereto. The main controller unit 152 is electrically connected to the proportional solenoid valve 185 , the solenoid valve 186 , the motor 151 and the water flow meter 168 . The main controller unit 152 is also electrically connected to the remote control 34 in a wireless manner.

In order to operate the connectable water flow and drainage system 183, the faucet 192 must be manually turned on to achieve an acceptable water temperature level before operation can begin. During the water supply period, when the desired flow rate is selected using the remote control 34, the proportional solenoid valve 185 is signaled to partially open, and then the motor 151 drives the pump 150 in order to supply water from the faucet 192 to the plant pot 70 through the hose 22. At this stage, the solenoid valve 186 is signaled to remain closed. The water flow rate can be adjusted by controlling the opening degree of the proportional solenoid valve 185 . The water flow is measured by the water flow meter 168, and the measured value is displayed on the remote controller 34. A temperature sensor 198 is installed to measure the temperature of the water flowing from the faucet 192 to the plant pot 70 through the hose 22 . The measured water temperature is also displayed on the remote control 34 to provide information for manually adjusting the water temperature on the faucet 192 . When the water temperature exceeds a predetermined range, by sending a signal to the proportional solenoid valve 185 to turn it off, and to the motor 151 to stop it, the main controller unit 152 will automatically stop the water supply until manually adjusted on the faucet 192. Water temperature, restart water supply time manually on remote controller 34. The predetermined water temperature range information is included in the memory chip 104 of the water socket 100 in FIG. 3 , or stored in a file of the main controller 152 .

During the drain time, the proportional solenoid valve 185 is signaled to close and the solenoid valve 186 is signaled to open. Simultaneously, a signal is sent to the motor 151 to run it in a certain direction, driving the pump 150 to drain water from the plant pot 70 into the sink 194 through the water hose 22 and drain hose 190 . The flow meter 168 monitors the drain flow rate, and the main controller unit 152 controls the speed of the motor 151, thereby regulating the flow rate.

Alternatively, a general solenoid valve may be used instead of the proportional solenoid valve 185, in which case the adjustment of the flow rate in the water supply time is controlled by adjusting the speed of the motor 151 for driving the pump 150. In this case, however, the pump 150 must be designed so that the pump 150 can receive water from the tap 192 at full tap pressure and completely block the flow.

Figures 9 and 10 illustrate a portable water flow and drainage system, generally indicated by the numeral 200, which is particularly beneficial when used to water plant pots spread over a large area. However, as a portable water supply and drainage device, it is also convenient to use the portable water flow and drainage system 200 in a home, office or commercial building, or in outdoor areas for various applications, such as with fish tanks or floor cleaning equipment .

The portable water flow and drainage system 200 includes a container 202 with handles 204, 206 and wheels 208 whereby it can be steered and carried for ease of transport.

Container 202 includes a fresh water chamber 210 and a black water chamber 212 . A soft membrane 214 separates the two chambers 210 and 212 . Compared to the fresh water chamber 210 , the black water chamber 212 is located relatively low in the container 202 . During the water filling period, the soft membrane 214, preferably made of rubber, allows the entire container 202 to be completely filled with fresh water and the capacity of the black water chamber 212 is reduced to zero. The black water chamber 212 can only then be used after part of the fresh water has been pumped out of the container 202 . The largest dimension of the black water chamber 212 contains only about 25% of the size of the entire container 202 .

The top of the container 202 is closed except for the opening 216 with a waterproof cover 218 . A solenoid valve 220 is arranged on the opening 216 inside the container 202 for automatically closing the opening 216 . A water supply hose 222 is provided for connecting the opening 216 of the container 202 to, for example, a water tap (not shown). The water supply hose 222 is equipped with a threaded joint (not indicated) at one end for threaded connection to a threaded water tap, and at the other end with a joint (not shown) having a structure similar to that of the waterproof cap 218 so that during the filling time After removing the waterproof cover 218 from the opening 216, the water supply hose 222 can be connected to the opening 216.

On top of the container 202 is a contact safety valve 224 . The technical details of the contact safety valve 224 are illustrated in FIGS. 10 a and 10 b. As shown in FIG. surface 228 . To provide a perfect fit between the frusto-conical valve body 226 and the valve seat 230 , the angle of the annular outer surface 228 corresponds to that of the frusto-conical valve body 226 . The frusto-conical valve body 226 is made of heavy metal, such as lead covered with plastic, so that when the container 202 is upright as shown in FIG. 10, the frusto-conical valve body 226 rests stably on the valve seat 230 under its own weight.

A hole 232 provided in the frusto-conical valve body 226 extends through the valve body 226 and is in fluid communication with a central hole 234 of the valve seat 230. When water is drawn from the container 202, the hole 232 allows air to enter the container 202. Air is also allowed to escape when pumping into the container 202 . A small chain 236 connects a rubber covered metal ball 238 to the bottom of the valve body 226 . As shown in FIG. 10 a , in the vertical position, the chain 236 suspends a ball 238 away from the central hole 234 of the valve seat 230 , thereby allowing air to pass through the central hole 234 . As shown in Figure 10b, if the container 202 is tipped onto its side, the heavy frusto-conical valve body 226 slides out of position, which pulls the ball 238 against the annular inner surface 240 of the valve seat 230, thereby blocking the center. hole 234 to prevent water from overflowing.

Referring again to FIG. 9 , the chambers 210 , 212 are connected by a tube and valve system 242 to a pump 150 coupled to and driven by a reversible motor 151 . The pipe and valve system 242 includes a solenoid valve 244 that, when opened, establishes a fluid passage between the black water chamber 212 and the pump 150. The pipe and valve system 242 further includes a solenoid valve 246 that, when opened, A fluid passage is established between the fresh water chamber 210 and the pump 150 .

On the other side of the pump 150 , the pipe sections 248 and 250 connect the pump 150 , the water flow meter 168 and one end of the soft water pipe 22 in sequence. The water and electricity connector 86 connected to the other end of the flexible water pipe 22 is suitable for connecting with a water and electricity socket 100 of a user device such as a plant pot 70 . The remote controller 34 attached to the water hose 22 near the plant pot 70 communicates wirelessly with the main controller unit 152 . The main controller unit 152 is electrically connected to the solenoid valves 220 , 244 , 246 , the motor 151 and the water flow meter 168 . The main controller unit 152 is also electronically connected to a water level sensor 252 located on the top and inside of the container 202 . In addition to a power supply unit 154, the portable water flow and drainage system 200 further includes a rechargeable battery 254 having a power cord 196 adapted to connect to a power outlet (not shown).

Referring to Figures 9 and 10, in addition to and separate from the fresh water chamber 210 and the black water chamber 212, the vessel 202 has a bottom chamber 256 to cover the pipe and valve system 242, pump 150, motor 151, water flow meter 168 and piping Sections 248, 250. Preferably the bottom chamber 256 comprises an open bottom with the necessary support structure to secure those components therein. Main controller unit 152 , power supply unit 154 and rechargeable battery 254 are also supported within bottom compartment 256 .

The portable water flow and drainage system 200 must be filled with water before use. The fresh water chamber 210 of the container 202 can be filled with water in two different ways. When filling the fresh water chamber 210 with water supplied from a faucet (not shown), one end of the water supply hose is connected to the faucet, and its other end is connected to the opening 216 of the container 202 after removing the waterproof cover 118 from the opening 216 . Solenoid valve 246 is closed and solenoid valve 220 is open. Then turn on the tap manually and adjust the temperature for ease of use. If necessary, the water temperature in the fresh water chamber 210 can be measured by using a temperature sensor (not shown) in the fresh water chamber 210 , and this measured value can be displayed on the remote controller 34 . The water level sensor 252 sends a signal to the main controller unit 152 when the fresh water chamber 210 is full. In response to the full water signal, the main controller unit 152 automatically signals the solenoid valve 220 to close. After the fresh water chamber 210 is full, the water supply hose 222 is manually disconnected from the opening 216 of the container 202 and the waterproof cap 218 is then tightly engaged in the opening 216 . If the power cord 192 is connected to the power outlet during the water filling period, the power cord 192 is also manually disconnected from the power outlet. The portable water flow and drainage system 200 is then ready to be moved so as to be close to the location of the plant pot 70 in order to perform the water supply and drainage operations. The water supply and drainage operations for watering plants are similar to those described with reference to FIGS. 1, 3, 4, 5 and 8, and thus will not be described again here.

When freshwater chamber 210 is filled with water from a bucket, bathtub, or other type of container, water hose 22 may be used to draw water from such container and input water into freshwater chamber 210 . In this water filling operation, the main controller unit 152 sends a signal to the motor 151 to drive the pump 150 in a certain direction so as to draw water from such a container as a water source through the hose 22, and at the same time sends a signal to the solenoid valve 246 to Turning it on sends a signal to the solenoid valve 244 to close it so that the pumped water is fed into the fresh water chamber 210 instead of the black water chamber 212 . The latter is the common case in drain times of ordinary water supply and drain operations of the system 200 . It is also to be noted that during this type of water filling period it is not recommended that the end of the hose 22 connected to the hydro connector 86 be placed directly into the water as the metal contacts in the hydro connector 86 may be damaged by the water . It is suggested that an additional section of tubing should be used as an extension of the hose 22 which can be suitably connected to the end of the hose 22 which is connected to the water connector 86 and placed into the water in the water supply container without fear of damage.

Once the fresh water chamber 210 is filled with water, the portable water flow and drainage system 200 can be carried and turned. Generally the portable water and drainage system 200 operates similarly to the central water and drainage system 130 as illustrated in FIG. 5 . After the drainage period of the water supply and drainage operation, when the black water chamber 212 is full, unlike the system 230 shown in FIG. The main controller unit 152 of the system 200 shown sends a signal to the solenoid valve 244 to open it, and controls the motor 151 to drive the pump 150 in a certain direction, so as to draw water out of the black water chamber 212 through the soft water pipe 22, the end of the soft water pipe 22 The end is placed at the drain inlet.

Modifications and improvements to the above-described embodiments of the invention may become apparent to those skilled in the art. The foregoing description is intended to be exemplary rather than limiting. It is therefore intended that the scope of the invention be defined solely by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (25)

1. A water supply and drainage method, comprising the following steps: Supplying the device (26) with the required amount of water through a single water pipe (22); It is characterized by: Drain the required amount of water from the device (26) through the same single water pipe (22); The water supply and discharge through this single water pipe (22) is controlled in desired program. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: At the distal end (28) of the water pipe (22) relative to the device (26), the water flow mode of the water pipe (22) is switched between a first water flow mode and a second water flow mode, in the first water flow mode, The water pipe (22) is in fluid communication with a water source, and in a second water circulation mode, the water pipe (22) is in fluid communication with a location for draining water. 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising: Water is supplied or drained by using a device (30) located at the distal end (28) of the water pipe (22) for the water pipe between the end (24) of the water pipe (22) and the distal end (28) of the water pipe (22) A fluid pressure differential is created within (22), and the end (24) of the water pipe (22) is adapted for use with the device (26). 4. The method of claim 2, further comprising: The water flow mode of the water conduit (22) is switched between the first and second water flow modes in response to a signal sent from a controller (34) located proximate to the device. 5. The method of claim 2, further comprising: The water flow mode of the water conduit (22) is switched between first and second water flow modes in response to signals sent from sensors (88, 90, 94) associated with the device (26). 6. The method of claim 3, further comprising: In response to a signal sent from a controller (34) located adjacent to the device (26), a fluid pressure differential is alternately generated within the water conduit (22) between a first fluid pressure mode and a second fluid pressure mode, the first fluid pressure The pressure mode is used to supply water to the device (26) and the second fluid pressure mode is used to drain water from the device (26). 7. The method of claim 3, further comprising: generating a fluid pressure differential within the water conduit (22) alternately between a first fluid pressure mode and a second fluid pressure mode in response to a signal sent from a sensor (88, 90, 94) associated with the device (26), The first fluid pressure mode is used to supply water to the device (26) and the second fluid pressure mode is used to drain water from the device (26). 8. A water supply and drainage system (130), comprising: a water channel (22) having a first end adapted for use with the device (70); means (150) connected to the second end of the water passage (22) for creating a fluid pressure differential in the water passage (22) between the first and second ends of the water passage (22) in two modes , characterized by: Apparatus (134, 142) for selectively establishing water communication between the water channel (22), and the water source (136) or drain location (146), during different periods of time, in order to pass the water channel (22) to the device ( 70) Water is supplied or drained from the device (70), and the means (134, 142) for establishing water circulation are connected together with the means (150) for creating a fluid pressure differential. 9. The system (130) of claim 8, further comprising: a master controller (152) associated with means for generating a fluid pressure differential (150) and means for selectively establishing water flow (134, 142), the master controller (152 ) to control water supply and drainage operations. 10. The system (130) of claim 9, further comprising: A remote controller (34), the remote controller (34) is used to send control signals to the main controller (152). 11. The system (130) of claim 9, further comprising: signal conductors (38), each signal conductor (38) adapted to receive at its first end a signal from a sensor (88, 90, 94) associated with the device (26) and at its second end to be connected to the main controller (152) in order to transmit a signal thereto. 12. The system (130) of claim 11, wherein the signal conductor (38) comprises a conductor (38) incorporated in a tube wall defining at least a portion of the water channel (22). 13. The system (130) of claim 12, wherein at least a portion of the water channel (22) includes a water hose (22), a first end of the water tube (22) defining a first end of the water channel. 14. The system (130) of claim 13, further comprising: A connector, the connector first part (162) is connected to the hose (22), and the second part (164) is connected to the part of the water channel (160), the selector is used to releasably connect the hose (22) to the fluid Part of the water channel (160) in the channel. 15. The system (130) of claim 14, wherein the connector includes metal contacts (174) on respective portions (162, 164) thereof for connecting wires (38) incorporated in the pipe wall to The wires to the main controller (152) can be connected separately. 16. The system (130) of claim 13, further comprising: a plurality of water pipe sections connected together to form a water distribution network (160) comprising an opening defining a second end of the water channel (22) and a plurality of other openings selectively connected to the flexible water pipe (22), so that when the remaining opening of the water distribution network (160) is closed, the branch of the water distribution network (160) between said one opening and the selected opening defines the water channel (22) together with the flexible water pipe (22) ), said one opening defines the second end of the water channel (22), and the selected opening is connected with the soft water pipe (22). 17. The system (130) of claim 16, further comprising: A plurality of cover parts (170) for closing the respective remaining openings of the water distribution network. 18. The system (130) of claim 17, wherein each cover member (170) includes an indicator (175) of the operating status of the system. 19. The system (130) of claim 13, further comprising: Apparatus (86, 100) for releasably connecting a first end of a water tube (22) to a device (70) in a fluid pathway. 20. The system (130) of claim 19, wherein the connection device (86, 100) comprises: a first portion (86) connected to the first end of the water pipe (22); a second part (100) adapted to be connected to the device (70); a memory chip (104) secured to the second part (100) for holding operational data about the device (70); A plurality of metal contacts secured to the respective first and second parts (86, 100) for routing signals from the device (70) via wires (38) incorporated in the tube wall and memory chips (104) to the main controller (152). 21. A water supply and drainage device (200) comprising: a container (202) comprising a first chamber (210) for containing a source of water and a second chamber (212) for collecting drainage; a reversible pump (150) adapted to be in selective fluid communication with one of the first and second chambers (210, 212); a reversible motor (151) coupled to the pump (150); A tube (22) having a first end connected to the pump (150) and a second end adapted for use with the device (70) to supply water to or from the device (70) drain; a device (152) for controlling the pump (150), in selective fluid communication with one of the first and second chambers (210, 212), and for controlling the motor (151) in operation, The motor (151) thereby drives the pump (150) in either direction required to supply the source water from the first chamber (210) to the device (70), or to drain the water from the device (70) and input the discharged water Second room (212). 22. The apparatus (200) of claim 21, further comprising: valve and tubing system (242), wherein a first solenoid valve (246) is connected between the pump (150) and the first chamber (210), and a second solenoid valve (244) is connected between the pump (150) and the second chamber ( 212), the two solenoid valves (244, 246) are controlled by the control device (152) for selectively connecting the pump (150) to any of the first and second chambers (210, 212). one. 23. The device (200) of claim 21, wherein the first and second chambers (210, 212) are separated by a flexible membrane (214). 24. The device (200) as claimed in claim 21, wherein the device (200) is made portable, the container (202) comprises a contact safety valve (224) allowing air to flow therethrough, and when the container (202) Prevents water from spilling when tipped over on one side. 25. The device (200) of claim 21, wherein the tube (22) includes a valve (86) connected to its second end to prevent water overflow.

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