CPC G01B 7/31 (2013.01) [A01G 25/092 (2013.01)] | 12 Claims |
1. An alignment detection system for use with a mechanized irrigation system having a first span and a second span connected at a first connection point, the alignment detection system comprising:
a measuring cable;
a string potentiometer, wherein the string potentiometer comprises:
an internal spool, wherein the internal spool is comprised of a cylinder having a first diameter;
a rotational sensor, wherein the rotational sensor is configured to measure and output electrical signals proportional to the length that the measuring cable is extended;
a retracting spring, wherein the retracting spring is comprised of a high torque power spring; wherein the retracting spring is configured to apply a retracting force to the measuring cable;
a string potentiometer housing, wherein the string potentiometer housing encloses the internal spool, the retracting spring, and the string potentiometer; wherein the string potentiometer housing comprises a cable inlet; wherein the string potentiometer housing is attached to the first span;
a corner arm spool, wherein the corner arm spool is attached to the second span;
wherein the measuring cable is attached at a first end to the internal spool of the spring potentiometer; wherein the measuring cable is attached at a second end to the corner arm spool; wherein the measuring cable is pulled and extended out from the string potentiometer by any increase in the angle between the second span and the first span; wherein the extended length of the measuring cable is wrapped around the corner arm spool.
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