MAC Systems winch automation system has been designed to provide a flexible automation solution for irrigation outlets. The control units can be configured to specific site requirements, depending on the size of outlets and the type of structures installed. The control unit and motor that we use are standard for all installations and we are able to provide a range of mounting options for varying outlet designs and manual winches. 

The photos show our winch control unit, which comprises a Z bracket that bolts onto the upright, with the control unit comprising a main board, button control modules for manual operation, side mounted motor, battery and solar panel. 

Installation involves removing the handle from the winch, mounting the Z bracket and positioning it at the correct height to allow the control unit to fit onto the bracket and the motor socket to slide over the winch nut. 

With our motor control board, controllers are configured with the settings for outlets to allow calibration of open and closed positions and current cut off limits so that details of the outlet position and status are available online and to raise alerts should faults be detected. 

Control units can be left at locations for permanent control or can be used as mobile controllers where units are moved around the property when and where required. Controllers can be setup as standalone units with modem modules plugged in, or can form a network with one unit operating as a gateway that communicates to other units via radio. The gateway can be setup as a mobile unit, or can be installed at a permanent location and used for remote pump control or connected to a weather station or soil moisture probe. 

Irrigation schedules are built on the web site and programmes are then transmitted to the field units. Monitoring of the schedules in progress can be viewed from mobile devices and edited. A range of alerts can be configured to be sent as emails and text messages. 

If required, additional radio sites can be installed to read other sensors such as channel heights, soil moisture, tank levels and more.