DEVELOPMENT OF AN ALGORITHM FOR A PROMISING AUTOMATED CONTROL SYSTEM FOR KUBAN-TYPE SPRINKLER MACHINES BASED ON FIBER-OPTIC TECHNOLOGIES

The article examines current problems and technical solutions related to the modernization of automation systems for front-type and circular-type "Kuban" sprinkler machines. The shortcomings of existing systems, built on the principle of "hard-wired logic", are analyzed; the main ones being limited functionality, low maintainability, high material consumption, and insufficient reliability. The transition to a non-contact component base using fiber-optic communication lines (FOCL) and microprocessor technology is proposed as the main direction for improvement. A two-level hierarchical structure of the automatic control system (ACS) is described, which includes a central microcomputer and distributed trolley control systems (TCS). The functional diagrams for motion and irrigation control, as well as the operational algorithms of the TCS—including continuous diagnostics and protection of actuators—are analyzed in detail. An innovative approach to irrigation quality management in the central pivot area using a time-pulse method and pulsators is presented. It is proven that the proposed solutions make it possible to elevate the operational characteristics of sprinkler machines to a qualitatively new level, corresponding to the requirements of advanced operatorless irrigation technologies, ensure significant savings in scarce materials (copper), and increase the reliability, maintainability, and functionality of the equipment.