Adjustable sprayer

Abstract

An adjustable sprayer is disclosed that includes a set of channels for the passage of fluid between a fluid entry opening and a fluid output region. Each channel includes an entry opening. The entry openings are arranged in a helical pattern. As a consequence, movement of an annular seal along the fluid flow pathway may be utilized to control the number of channels in an open state and also the angular extent of a spray emitted by the adjustable sprayer.

Description

ADJUSTABLE SPRAYERTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a watering / irrigation component. More specifically, the present invention relates to an adjustable sprayer.BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventional irrigation components that enable adjustment of the angular extent of a spray pattern (for example, conventional irrigation components disclosed in EP 2020749 Bl, US 9,981,276 B2, and EP 2200749 Bl) often require complex and intricate manufacturing processes. Moreover, some of these conventional components do not enable adjustment of the angular extent of the spray pattern between 0° (off) and 360° (a full circle). Therefore, it is desirable to provide an adjustable sprayer that addresses one or more of the foregoing concerns.SUMMARY

[0003] Embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are provided in this summary for illustrative purposes and are in no way limiting of the claimed subject matter. Various sets of embodiments are disclosed in the summary. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more aspects of one set of embodiments may be incorporated into and utilized with other embodiments disclosed in the summary and detailed description.

[0004] A first embodiment of the adjustable sprayer defines a fluid flow pathway extending from a fluid input opening through a fluid output region. The first embodiment of the adjustable sprayer may comprise a central member comprising a central member outer surface. The central member outer surface may define the fluid output region and a seal receiving region.

[0005] The first embodiment of the adjustable sprayer may comprise an outer member having an outer member inner surface. The outer member inner surface may define a passageway and a set of channels. The passageway may extend through the outer member. Each channel of the set of channels may extend along a portion of the fluid flow pathway and comprises an entry opening and an exit opening. For each channel, the entry opening is disposed closer to the fluid input opening than the exit opening along the fluid flow pathway. The entry openings are offset along the fluid flow pathway in a helical pattern. The passageway comprises the fluid input opening.

[0006] The first embodiment of the adjustable sprayer may comprise an annular seal disposed within the seal receiving region. The annular seal may comprise an outward annular sealing region that engages with and creates a fluid-tight seal with at least a portion of the outer member inner surface. The central member and the outward annular sealing region are movable with respect to the outer member along the fluid flow pathway. Each channel having a correspondingentry opening disposed between the outward annular sealing region and the fluid input opening along the fluid flow pathway is in an open state and is in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening and the fluid output region. Each channel having a corresponding entry opening disposed between the outward annular sealing region and the fluid output region along the fluid flow pathway is in a closed state and is not in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening and the fluid output region. As a consequence, movement of the outward annular sealing region along the fluid flow pathway alters both a number and an angular extent of the channels in an open state.

[0007] Within the first embodiment, the fluid output region may comprise a sloped annular region. The seal receiving region may comprise a first annular edge and a second annular edge and an intervening annular space disposed between the first annular edge and the second annular edge along the fluid flow pathway. The annular seal may be disposed within the intervening annular space. The central member further may further comprise a set of outwardly oriented threads, and the outer member may further comprise a set of inwardly oriented threads shaped to engage with the set of outwardly oriented threads such that the central member is rotatably engaged with the outer member. As a consequence rotational movement of the central member relative to the outer member alters a position of the outward annular sealing relative to the entry openings along the fluid flow pathway.

[0008] The first embodiment of the adjustable sprayer may further comprise one or more recessed paths disposed within the set of outwardly oriented threads.

[0009] Within the first embodiment of the adjustable sprayer, the central member is movable relative to the outer member between an open, a partially open, and a closed position. The central member is in the open position when all of the channels are in an open state. The central member is in a partially open position when at least one of the channels is in an open state and at least one of the channels is in a closed state. The central member is in a closed position when all of the channels are in a closed state.

[0010] When the central member is in a closed position and pressurized fluid is introduced into the fluid input opening, the fluid flow pathway is in a closed condition such that no pressurized fluid exits the fluid output region.

[0011] Within the first embodiment of the adjustable sprayer, the channels may be positioned along a full angular extent of the outer member inner surface with intervening portions disposed between the channels.

[0012] When the central member is in an open position, the angular extent of the channels in an open state is 360°.

[0013] The first embodiment of the adjustable sprayer may further comprise a flow control mechanism for altering a volume of fluid flowing through the adjustable sprayer.

[0014] The flow control mechanism may comprise a third set of threads and a fourth set of threads with the third set of threads being attached to a shaft that is moveable relative to the fourth set of threads to provide at least two different levels of obstruction of the passageway.

[0015] A second embodiment of the adjustable sprayer may define a fluid flow pathway extending from a fluid input opening through a fluid output region. The second embodiment of the adjustable sprayer may comprise a central member having a central member outer surface. The central member outer surface may define the fluid output region and a set of channels. Each channel of the set of channels may extend along a portion of the fluid flow pathway and may comprise an entry opening and an exit opening. For each channel, the entry opening is disposed closer to the fluid input opening than the exit opening along the fluid flow pathway. The entry openings are offset along the fluid flow pathway in a helical pattern.

[0016] The second embodiment of the adjustable sprayer may also comprise an outer member having an outer member inner surface. The outer member inner surface may define a passageway and a seal receiving region. The passageway extends through the outer member. The passageway comprises a fluid input opening.

[0017] The second embodiment of the adjustable sprayer may also comprise an annular seal disposed within the seal receiving region. The annular seal comprises an inward annular sealing region that engages with and creates a fluid-tight seal with at least a portion of the central member outer surface. The central member is movable to the inward annular sealing region of the outer member. Each channel having a corresponding entry opening disposed between the inward annular sealing region and the fluid input opening along the fluid flow pathway is in an open state and is in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening and the fluid output region. Each channel having a corresponding entry opening disposed between the inward annular sealing region and the fluid output region along the fluid flow pathway is in a closed state and is not in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening and the fluid output region. As a consequence, movement of the inward annular sealing region along the fluid flow pathway alters both a number and an angular extent of the channels in an open state.

[0018] Within the second embodiment of the adjustable sprayer, the fluid output region may comprise a sloped annular region. The seal receiving region may comprise a first annular edge and a second annular edge and an intervening annular space disposed between the first annular edge and the second annular edge along the fluid flow pathway. The annular seal may be disposed within the intervening annular space. The central member may comprise a set ofoutwardly oriented threads, and the outer member may comprise a set of inwardly oriented threads shaped to engage with the set of outwardly oriented threads such that the central member is rotatably engaged with the outer member. As a consequence, rotational movement of the central member relative to the outer member alters a position of the inward annular sealing region relative to the entry openings along the fluid flow pathway.

[0019] The second embodiment of the adjustable sprayer may further comprise one or more recessed paths disposed within the set of outwardly oriented threads.

[0020] Within the second embodiment of the adjustable sprayer, the central member is movable relative to the outer member between an open, a partially open, and a closed position. The central member is in the open position when all of the channels are in an open state. The central member is in a partially open position when at least one of the channels is in an open state and at least one of the channels is in a closed state. The central member is in a closed position when all of the channels are in a closed state.

[0021] Within the second embodiment of the adjustable sprayer, when the central member is in a closed position and pressurized fluid is introduced into the fluid input opening, the fluid flow pathway is in a closed condition such that no pressurized fluid exits the fluid output region.

[0022] Within the second embodiment of the adjustable sprayer, the channels may be positioned along a full angular extent of the outer member inner surface with intervening portions disposed between the channels.

[0023] Within the second embodiment of the adjustable sprayer, when the central member is in an open position, the angular extent of the channels in an open state is 360°.

[0024] The second embodiment of the adjustable sprayer may comprise a flow control mechanism for altering a volume of fluid flowing through the second embodiment of the adjustable sprayer.

[0025] Within the second embodiment of the adjustable sprayer, the flow control mechanism may comprise a third set of threads and a fourth set of threads with the third set of threads being attached to a shaft that is moveable relative to the fourth set of threads to provide at least two different levels of obstruction of the passageway.

[0026] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Illustrative embodiments of the invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only illustrative embodiments and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of the invention’s scope, the illustrative embodiments ofthe invention will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings in which:

[0028] FIG. l is a side elevational view of one embodiment of an adjustable sprayer;

[0029] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of the adjustable sprayer shown in FIG. 1;

[0030] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the embodiment of the adjustable sprayer shown in FIG. 1;

[0031] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken across the line 4-4 of FIG. 1;

[0032] FIG. 5 is a simplified three-dimensional diagram illustrating a set of channels of the embodiment of the adjustable sprayer shown in FIG. 1 the embodiment having entry openings in a helical pattern offset along a fluid flow pathway together with an outward annular sealing region created by an annular seal that is movable along at least a portion of the fluid flow pathway;

[0033] FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the embodiment of the adjustable sprayer shown in FIG. 1 with a central member in an open position;

[0034] FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable sprayer taken across the line 7A-7A shown in FIG. 6;

[0035] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable sprayer taken across the line 7B-7B shown in FIG. 6;

[0036] FIG. 8 is a side elevational view of the embodiment of the adjustable sprayer shown in FIG. 1 with a central member in a closed position;

[0037] FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable sprayer taken across the line 9A-9A shown in FIG. 8;

[0038] FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable sprayer taken across the line 9B-9B shown in FIG. 8;

[0039] FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of the embodiment of the adjustable sprayer shown in FIG. 1 with a central member in a partially open position;

[0040] FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable sprayer taken across the line 11A- 11 A shown in FIG. 10;

[0041] FIG. 1 IB is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable sprayer taken across the line 11B- 1 IB shown in FIG. 10;

[0042] FIG. 12A is a side elevational view of the adjustable sprayer shown in FIG. 1 with a flow control mechanism in a first level of obstruction;

[0043] FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view taken across the line 12B-12B shown in FIG. 12A;

[0044] FIG. 13 A is a side elevational view of the adjustable sprayer shown in FIG. 1 with a flow control mechanism in a second level of obstruction;

[0045] FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view taken across the line 13B-13B shown in FIG. 13 A;

[0046] FIG. 14 is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of the adjustable sprayer;

[0047] FIG. 15A is a side elevational view of the embodiment of the adjustable sprayer shown in FIG. 14; and

[0048] FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view taken across the line 15B-15B shown in FIG. 15 A.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] Various aspects of the present disclosure are described below. It should be apparent that the teachings herein may be embodied in a wide variety of forms and that any specific structure, function, or both disclosed herein is merely representative. Based on the teachings herein, one skilled in the art should appreciate that an aspect disclosed herein may be implemented independently of any other aspects and that two or more of these aspects may be combined in various ways, even if that combination is not specifically illustrated in the figures or identified in the description. For example, an apparatus may be implemented, or a method may be practiced, using any number of the aspects set forth herein whether disclosed in connection with a method or an apparatus. Further, the disclosed apparatuses and methods may be practiced using structures or functionality known to one of skill in the art at the time this application was filed, although not specifically disclosed within the application.GENERAL DEFINITIONS

[0050] By way of introduction, the following brief definitions are provided for various terms that may be used in this application. Additional definitions may be provided in the context of the discussion of the figures herein. As used herein, “exemplary” can indicate an example, an implementation, and / or an aspect of the disclosed subject matter and does not signify a preferred implementation.

[0051] Further, it is to be appreciated that certain ordinal terms (e.g., “first” or “second”) can be provided for identification and ease of reference and may not necessarily imply physical characteristics or ordering. Therefore, as used herein, an ordinal term (e.g., “first,” “second,” “third”) when used to modify an element (such as a structure, a component, an operation, etc.) does not indicate priority or order of the element with respect to another element, but rather distinguishes the element from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) unless otherwise expressly indicated.

[0052] In addition, as used herein, indefinite articles (“a” and “an”) can indicate “one or more” rather than “one.”

[0053] As used herein, a structure or operation that “comprises” or “includes” an element can include one or more other elements not explicitly recited. Thus, the terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and variations thereof signify “including but not limited to” unless expressly specified otherwise. Further, an operation performed “based on” a condition or event can also be performed based on one or more other conditions or events not explicitly recited.

[0054] As used in this application, the terms “an embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “another embodiment,” or analogous language do not refer to a single variation of the disclosed subject matter; instead, this language refers to variations of the disclosed subject matter that can be applied and used with a number of different implementations of the disclosed subject matter.

[0055] An enumerated listing of items recited in connection with an embodiment of the invention does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive and / or mutually inclusive of one another unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0056] Within this application, the phrases “secured to,” “connected to,” “coupled to,” and “in communication with” refer to any form of interaction between two or more entities, including mechanical, electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic, and thermal interaction and may also include fluid communication. The phrase “attached to” refers to a form of mechanical coupling that restricts relative translation or rotation between the attached objects. The phrases “pivotally attached to” and “slidably attached to” refer to forms of mechanical coupling that permit relative rotation or relative translation, respectively, while restricting other relative motion.

[0057] The phrase “attached directly to” refers to a form of attachment by which the attached items are either in direct contact, or are only separated by a single fastener, adhesive, or other attachment mechanism. The term “abut” refers to items that are in direct physical contact with each other, although the items may be attached, secured, fused, or welded together.

[0058] The term “integrally formed” refers to items that are manufactured integrally, i.e., as a single piece, without requiring the assembly of multiple pieces. Multiple parts may be integrally formed with each other if they are formed from a single workpiece. The term “separately manufactured” signifies that two identified items are not integrally formed (e.g., either by different manufacturing processes, or by the same manufacturing process at different times and / or locations).

[0059] As used herein, the term “substantially coaxially aligned” signifies that two items are aligned such that the items share a common, imaginary axis (or are within 15° of sharing thesame common, imaginary axis) extending through both of the items, although the items may be spaced apart along that common, imaginary axis.

[0060] In various embodiments, the term “offset and substantially coaxially aligned” signifies that two items are aligned such that they share a common, imaginary axis (or are within 15° of sharing the same common, imaginary axis) extending through both of the items and the center points of the items along the common, imaginary axis are spaced apart along the common, imaginary axis.

[0061] In various embodiments, “overlapping and substantially coaxially aligned” signifies that two items are aligned such that they share a common, imaginary axis (or are within 15° of sharing the same common, imaginary axis) extending through both of the items and the items overlap along the common, imaginary axis.

[0062] In various embodiments, “coextensive and substantially coaxially aligned” signifies that two items are aligned such that they share a common, imaginary axis (or are within 15° of sharing the same common, imaginary axis) extending through both of the items and the items are coextensive along the common, imaginary axis.

[0063] As used herein, the term “generally” indicates that a particular item is within 15° of a specified orientation or value. As used herein, the term “substantially” indicates that a particular value is within 15% of a specified value. For example, the phrase “substantially parallel,” as used herein, signifies that the pertinent members, components, or items that are “substantially parallel” to each other are within 15° of being perfectly parallel to each other.

[0064] As used herein, in various embodiments, the term “center point nonalignment” when used to identify a relative position of items, features or components along a designated axis signifies that the center points of each of the two identified items are not aligned along a designated axis.

[0065] In various embodiments, the term “outer boundary nonalignment” may be used to signify that the outer boundaries of two items do not overlap along a designated axis. The term “nonaligned positions” indicates that two items are not aligned along at least one axis and may refer, for example, to either center point nonalignment or outer boundary nonalignment.

[0066] Different embodiments disclosed herein will be assigned reference numerals chosen from groups of one hundred. For example, a first embodiment may include numbers within the range 100-199, and a second embodiment may include numbers within the range 200-299. Similar parts in the different embodiments include analogous numbers. For example, a component in a first embodiment may be assigned reference numeral 123, while a similar component in the second embodiment may be assigned reference numeral 223.

[0067] In the figures, certain components may appear many times within a particular drawing. However, only certain instances of the components may be identified in the figures to avoid the undue proliferation of reference numbers and lead lines. According to the context provided in the description while referring to the figures, reference may be made to a specific one of that particular component or multiple instances, even if the specifically referenced instance or instances of the component are not identified by a reference number and lead line in the figures.

[0068] The figures will be discussed in the groups outlined below unless otherwise noted. To avoid the undue proliferation of reference numerals and part names, a particular part name and reference numeral will be included at least once in each group but may not appear in all figures within the group. In addition, once a reference numeral and part number has been introduced within a particular group of figures, it may be discussed in subsequent groups of figures although not identified within the currently discussed group of figures.INTRODUCTION

[0069] FIGS. 1-12B, as explained above, provide various views of one embodiment of the adjustable sprayer 100. This embodiment of the adjustable sprayer 100 includes a set of channels 132 on an outer member inner surface 122. In contrast, FIGS. 13-14B provide various views of an alternative embodiment of an adjustable sprayer 200. This alternative embodiment of the adjustable sprayer 200 includes a set of channels 232 on a central member outer surface 212.FIGS. 1-5

[0070] The adjustable sprayer 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 includes a central member 110, an outer member 120 and a flow control mechanism 180. The adjustable sprayer 100 may include an axial dimension 102, a lateral dimension 104, a first end 106 and a second end 108. A first axial direction 103 and a second axial direction 105 are oriented in the axial directions indicated in connection with FIG. 1. For example, the first axial direction 103 may extend from a fluid input opening 140 of the adjustable sprayer 100 toward a fluid output region 114 of the adjustable sprayer 100, and the second axial direction 105 may extend from the fluid output region 114 toward the fluid input opening 140. A fluid flow pathway 143 extends from the fluid input opening 140 through the fluid output region 114 of the adjustable sprayer 100.

[0071] The central member 110 may include a central member outer surface 112 that defines a fluid output region 114, a seal receiving region 171 and a central member threaded region 118. The fluid output region 114 may comprise a sloped annular region 116. The sloped annular region 116, in various embodiments, becomes wider (i.e., across the lateral dimension 104) along the fluid flow pathway 143 (e.g., along the first axial direction 103). The sloped annular region116 deflects fluid (e.g., water, or water containing additives, such as fertilizer or pesticides) away from the adjustable sprayer 100 to generate a spray pattern of the fluid.

[0072] The seal receiving region 171 may comprise a first annular edge 192 and a second annular edge 194. An intervening annular space 196, for receiving the annular seal 150, is disposed between the first annular edge 192 and the second annular edge 194 along the fluid flow pathway 143.

[0073] The central member threaded region 118 may comprise a set of outwardly oriented threads 126. The set of outwardly oriented threads 126 may comprise one or more recessed paths 168. When assembled and provided with pressurized fluid 176, the pressurized fluid 176 will pass through the recessed paths 168.

[0074] The adjustable sprayer 100 may also include a flow control mechanism 180 for altering a volume of fluid flowing through the adjustable sprayer 100. The flow control mechanism 180 comprises a rotatable handle 191 and a fourth set of threads 184 attached to (e.g., integrally formed or secured to) a shaft 186. The fourth set of threads 184 engage with the third set of threads 182 to enable rotation and movement, for example, along the lateral dimension 104 of the shaft 186 to alter the volume of fluid flowing through the adjustable sprayer 100.

[0075] The outer member 120 may comprise an outer member inner surface 122 that defines a passageway 130 through the outer member 120. When assembled, the central member 110 is positioned at least partially within the passageway 130. The outer member inner surface 122 also defines a set of channels 132 with intervening portions 178. Each channel 132 includes an entry opening 136 and an exit opening 138. Within each channel 132, the pertinent entry opening 136 is disposed closer to the fluid input opening 140 than the pertinent exit opening 138 along the fluid flow pathway 143. The entry openings 136 are arranged in a helical pattern 142 offset along the fluid flow pathway 143.

[0076] The outer member inner surface 122 may also define an outer member threaded region 124. The outer member threaded region 124 may comprise a set of inwardly oriented threads 111. The set of inwardly oriented threads 111 of the outer member 120 engage with the set of outwardly oriented threads 126 of the central member 110 such that rotational movement of the central member 110 relative to the outer member 120 results in movement of the central member 110 relative to the outer member 120 along the fluid flow pathway 143. As a consequence, the set of inwardly oriented threads 111 are shaped to engage with the set of outwardly oriented threads 126 such that the central member 110 may, in certain embodiments, be rotatably engaged with the outer member 120. In addition, the annular seal 150 comprises an outward annular sealing region 152 that engages with and creates a fluid-tight seal 154 with at least a portion ofthe outer member inner surface 122. One or more recessed paths 168 allow the passage of fluid through the central member threaded region 118.

[0077] Therefore, rotational movement of the central member 110 relative to the outer member 120 alters a position of the outward annular sealing region 152 relative to the entry openings 136 of the channels 132 along the fluid flow pathway 143. Each channel 132 having a corresponding entry opening 136 disposed between the outward annular sealing region 152 and the fluid input opening 140 along the fluid flow pathway 143 is in an open state 166 and is in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening 140 and the fluid output region 114. Each channel 132 having a corresponding entry opening 136 disposed between the outward annular sealing region 152 and the fluid output region 114 along the fluid flow pathway 143 is in a closed state 164 and is not in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening 140 and the fluid output region 114. Therefore, movement of the outward annular sealing region 152 along the fluid flow pathway 143 alters both a number and an angular extent of the channels 132 in an open state 166. Therefore, the central member 110 and outward annular sealing region 152 are moveable relative to the entry openings 136 of the outer member 120 along at least a portion of the fluid flow pathway 143.

[0078] Referring now only to FIG. 5, which is a simplified diagram illustrating channels 132 and an outward annular sealing region 152 of the annular seal 150 at a position along the fluid flow pathway 143 such that only two of the channels 132 are in an open state 166. Therefore, the angular extent of the spray pattern of the pressurized fluid 176 is quite narrow. FIG. 5 illustrates the helical pattern 142 of the entry openings 136 of the channels 132.

[0079] As illustrated, the channels 132 with intervening portions 178 may be positioned at regular intervals about the outer member inner surface 122. As illustrated, the adjustable sprayer 100 may include twenty channels 132. In alternative embodiments, the number and angular extent of the channels may be altered. For example, in alternative embodiments, the adjustable sprayer 100 could include fifteen channels positioned within an angular extent of 270° or the adjustable sprinkler could include thirty channels with an angular extent of 360°.FIGS. 6-1 IB

[0080] FIGS. 6-1 IB illustrate the central member 110 with the annular seal 150 and the associated outward annular sealing region 152 at different positions along the fluid flow pathway 143 as a consequence of rotational movement of the central member 110 relative to the outer member 120 when provided with pressurized fluid 176. More specifically, FIGS. 6-7B illustrate the central member 110 in an open position 170 relative to the outer member 120, i.e., with all ofthe channels 132 in an open state 166. FIGS. 8-9B illustrate the central member 110 in a closed position 174 relative to the outer member 120, i.e., with all of the channels 132 in a closed state 164. FIGS. 10-1 IB illustrate the central member 110 in a partially open position 172 relative to the outer member 120, i.e., with at least one channel 132 in a closed state 164 and at least one channel 132 in an open state 166.

[0081] Referring now to FIGS. 6-7B, all of the entry openings 136 are positioned between the fluid input opening 140 and the outward annular sealing region 152 of the annular seal 150 such that all of the channels 132 are in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening 140 and the fluid output region 114. The angular extent 161 of the spray emitted by the adjustable sprayer 100 is 360°.

[0082] Referring now to FIGS. 8-9B, all of the entry openings 136 are positioned between the fluid output region 114 and the outward annular sealing region 152 of the annular seal 150 along the fluid flow pathway 143 such that all of the channels 132 are not in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening 140 and the fluid output region 114. The angular extent 162 of the spray emitted by the adjustable sprayer 100 is 0°. In other words, the adjustable sprayer 100 is “off’ such that no water is omitted from the sprayer 100.

[0083] Referring now to FIGS. 10-1 IB, five of the entry openings 136 are positioned between the fluid input opening 140 and the outward annular sealing region 152 of the annular seal 150 along the fluid flow pathway 143 such that five channels 132 are in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening 140 and the fluid output region 114. The remaining fifteen entry openings 136 are positioned between the fluid output region 114 and the outward annular sealing region 152 of the annular seal 150 along the fluid flow pathway 143 such that fifteen channels 132 are in a closed state 164 and are not in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening 140 and the fluid output region 114. The angular extent 163 of the spray emitted by the adjustable sprayer 100 is approximately 90°. The partially open position 172 of the central member 110 relative to the outer member 120 range from only one channel 132 in an open state 166 to all but one of the channels 132 in an open state 166 (i.e., at least one channel 132 in an open state 166 and at least one channel 132 in a closed state 164). As noted previously, the number of channels 132 in a particular implementation of the adjustable sprayer may be varied within the scope of the disclosed subject matter.FIGS. 12A-13B

[0084] As noted previously, the adjustable sprayer 100 may include a flow control mechanism for altering a volume of fluid flowing through the adjustable sprayer 100. The flow controlmechanism 180 may include a fourth set of threads 184, which may comprise a portion of the outer member 120, and a third set of threads 182 attached to (e.g., integrally formed with or secured to) a shaft 186 and a rotatable handle 191. The third set of threads 182 and the fourth set of threads 184 are mutually engaged, such that rotation of the fourth set of threads 184 relative to the third set of threads 182 results in lateral movement of the fourth set of threads 184 relative to the third set of threads 182. As a consequence, rotation of the rotatable handle 191 alters a level of obstruction that the shaft 186 provides to the passageway 130. FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate a first level of obstruction 188, in which the shaft 186 almost entirely obstructs the passageway 130. FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate a second level of obstruction 190, in which the shaft 186 provides almost no obstruction of the passageway 130. Of course, the first and second levels of obstruction 188, 190 are only illustrative. Other levels of obstruction may be achieved by rotation of the rotatable handle 191 to positions other than those illustrated in FIGS. 12A-13B.FIGS. 14-15B

[0085] FIGS. 14-15B illustrate an alternative embodiment of the adjustable sprayer 200. The adjustable sprayer 200 is different from the adjustable sprayer 100 in that the set of channels 232 are positioned on the central member 210 rather than on the outer member 220. In addition, an intervening annular space 296 for receiving the annular seal 250 is defined by the outer member 220. By rotation of the central member 210 relative to the outer member 220, the annular seal 250 may be positioned at or moved to different locations along the fluid flow pathway 243, such that the central member 210 may be in a closed position, an open position or a partially open position 272 relative to the outer member 220. In an open position, the entry openings 236 of each of the channels 232 are disposed between the inward annular sealing region 252 of the annular seal 250 and the fluid input opening 240 such that all of the channels 232 are in an open state 266 with all of the channels 232 in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening 240 and the fluid output region 214. In a closed position, the entry openings 236 of each of the channels 232 is disposed between the inward annular sealing region 252 and the fluid output region 214 such that all of the channels 232 are in a closed state 264 and are not in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening 240 and the fluid output region 214. In a partially open position 272 (as illustrated in FIGS. 14-15B), at least one channel 232 is in an open state 266 and at least one channel 232 is in a closed state 264.

[0086] The adjustable sprayer 200 illustrated in FIGS. 14-15B includes a central member 210 and an outer member 220. The adjustable sprayer 200 may include an axial dimension 202, a lateral dimension 204, a first end 206 and a second end 208. A first axial direction 203 and asecond axial direction 205 are oriented in the axial directions indicated in FIG. 15 A. For example, the first axial direction 203 may extend from the fluid input opening 240 of the adjustable sprayer 200 toward the fluid output region 214 of the adjustable sprayer 200, and the second axial direction 205 may extend from the fluid output region 214 toward the fluid input opening 240. A fluid flow pathway 243 extends from the fluid input opening 240 through the fluid output region 214.

[0087] The central member 210 may also include a central member outer surface 212 that defines a fluid output region 214, a set of channels 232, and a central member threaded region 218. The fluid output region 214 may comprise a sloped annular region 216. The sloped annular region 216, in various embodiments, becomes wider (i.e., across the lateral dimension 204) along the fluid flow pathway 243 (e.g., along the first axial direction 203). The sloped annular region 216 deflects fluid (e.g., water, or water containing additives, such as fertilizer or pesticides) away from the adjustable sprayer 200.

[0088] The central member outer surface 212 also defines a set of channels 232 with intervening portions 278. Each channel 232 includes an entry opening 236 and an exit opening 238. The entry openings 236 are arranged in a helical pattern 242 offset along the fluid flow pathway 243.

[0089] The central member threaded region 218 may comprise a set of outwardly oriented threads 226. The set of outwardly oriented threads 226 may comprise one or more recessed paths 268. When assembled and provided with pressurized fluid 276, the fluid 276 will pass through the recessed paths 268. The one or more recessed paths 268 allow the passage of fluid through the central member threaded region 218.

[0090] Although not illustrated, the adjustable sprayer 200 may also incorporate a flow control mechanism 180 (illustrated in connection with the first embodiment of the adjustable sprayer 100) for altering a volume of fluid flowing through the adjustable sprayer 200.

[0091] The outer member 220 may comprise an outer member inner surface 222 that defines a passageway 230 through the outer member 220. When assembled, the central member 210 is positioned at least partially within the passageway 230.

[0092] The outer member 220 may comprise a seal receiving region 271. The seal receiving region 271 comprises a first annular edge 292 and a second annular edge 294. An intervening annular space 296, for receiving the annular seal 250, is disposed between the first annular edge 292 and the second annular edge 294 along the fluid flow pathway 243.

[0093] The outer member inner surface 222 may also define an outer member threaded region 224. The outer member threaded region 224 may comprise a set of inwardly oriented threads 211. The set of inwardly oriented threads 211 of the outer member 220 engage with the set ofoutwardly oriented threads 226 of the central member 210 such that rotational movement of the central member 210 relative to the outer member 220 results in movement of the central member 210 relative to the outer member 220 along the fluid flow pathway 243. As a consequence, the set of inwardly oriented threads 211 are shaped to engage with the set of outwardly oriented threads 226 such that the central member 210 is rotatably engaged with the outer member 220. In addition, the annular seal 250 comprises an inward annular sealing region 252 that engages with and creates a fluid-tight seal 254 with at least a portion of the central member outer surface 212.

[0094] Therefore, rotational movement of the central member 210 relative to the outer member 220 alters a position of the inward annular sealing region 252 relative to the entry openings 236 of the channels 232 along the fluid flow pathway 243. Therefore, central member 210 and the entry openings 236 are moveable relative to the inward annular sealing region 252 of the outer member 220 along the fluid flow pathway 243.

[0095] Each channel 232 having a corresponding entry opening 236 disposed between the inward annular sealing region 252 and the fluid input opening 240 along the fluid flow pathway 243 is in an open state 266 and is in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening 240 and the fluid output region 214. Each channel 232 having a corresponding entry opening 236 disposed between the inward annular sealing region 252 and the fluid output region 214 along the fluid flow pathway 243 is in a closed state 264 and is not in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening 240 and the fluid output region 214. Therefore, axial movement of the inward annular sealing region 252 alters both a number and an angular extent of the channels 232 in an open state 266.

[0096] The channels 232 with intervening portions 278 are positioned at regular intervals about the central member outer surface 212. As illustrated, the adjustable sprayer 200 may include 18 channels 232. In alternative embodiments, the number and angular extent of the channels may be altered. For example, in alternative embodiments, the adjustable sprinkler could include 15 channels positioned within an angular extent of 270° or the adjustable sprinkler could include 30 channels with an angular extent of 360°.CONCLUSION

[0097] It should be noted that, in certain embodiments, the channels 132, 232 may extend along the fluid flow pathway 143, 243, and therefore may comprise axial channels 132, 232.

[0098] The fluid flow pathway 143, 243 may be in an open condition when all of the channels 132, 232 are in an open state; a partially open condition, when at least one of the channels 132, 232 is an open state 166, 266 and at least one of the channels 132, 232 is in a closed state 164,264; or in a closed condition, when all the channels 132, 232 are in a closed state 164, 264. The fluid flow pathway 143, 243 may also be in a closed condition utilizing the flow control mechanism 180 to completely obstruct the fluid flow pathway 143, 243 if such a level of obstruction is available within the particular embodiment at issue.

[0099] Also, in various alternative embodiments, different mechanisms, other than a mating set of threads 111, 211, 126, 226, may be utilized to move and reposition the central member 110, 210 relative to the outer member 120, 220.

[0100] It should also be noted that the channels 132, 232 and intervening portions 178, 278 may each be elongated in shape.

[0101] In various embodiments, the adjustable sprayer 100, 200 could be utilized, for example, in connection with drip irrigation systems.

[0102] While specific embodiments and applications of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise configuration and components disclosed herein. Various modifications, changes, and variations, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art, may be made in the arrangement, operation, and details of the components, methods and systems of the present invention disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An adjustable sprayer defines a fluid flow pathway extending from a fluid input opening through a fluid output region, the adjustable sprayer comprising: a central member comprising a central member outer surface, the central member outer surface defining the fluid output region and a seal receiving region; an outer member comprising an outer member inner surface, the outer member inner surface defining a passageway and a set of channels, the passageway extending through the outer member, each channel of the set of channels extending along a portion of the fluid flow pathway and comprising an entry opening and an exit opening, wherein, for each channel, the entry opening is disposed closer to the fluid input opening than the exit opening along the fluid flow pathway, and wherein the entry openings are offset along the fluid flow pathway in a helical pattern, wherein the passageway comprises the fluid input opening; and an annular seal disposed within the seal receiving region, wherein the annular seal comprises an outward annular sealing region that engages with and creates a fluid-tight seal with at least a portion of the outer member inner surface, wherein the central member and the outward annular sealing region are movable with respect to the outer member along at least a portion of the fluid flow pathway, wherein each channel having a corresponding entry opening disposed between the outward annular sealing region and the fluid input opening along the fluid flow pathway is in an open state and is in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening and the fluid output region, and wherein each channel having a corresponding entry opening disposed between the outward annular sealing region and the fluid output region along the fluid flow pathway is in a closed state and is not in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening and the fluid output region such that movement of the outward annular sealing region along the fluid flow pathway alters both a number and an angular extent of the channels in the open state.

2. The adjustable sprayer of claim 1, wherein the fluid output region comprises a sloped annular region, wherein the seal receiving region comprises a first annular edge and a second annular edge and an intervening annular space disposed between the first annular edge and the second annular edge along the fluid flow pathway, the annular seal being disposed within the intervening annular space, and wherein the central member further comprises a set of outwardly oriented threads, wherein the outer member comprises a set of inwardly oriented threads shaped to engage with the set of outwardly oriented threads such that the central member is rotatablyengaged with the outer member, and wherein rotational movement of the central member relative to the outer member alters a position of the outward annular sealing region relative to the entry openings along the fluid flow pathway.

3. The adjustable sprayer of claim 2, further comprising one or more recessed paths disposed within the set of outwardly oriented threads.

4. The adjustable sprayer of claim 2, wherein the central member is movable relative to the outer member between an open position, a partially open position, and a closed position, wherein the central member is in the open position when all of the channels are in the open state, wherein the central member is in the partially open position when at least one of the channels is in the open state and at least one of the channels is in the closed state, and, wherein the central member is in the closed position when all of the channels are in the closed state.

5. The adjustable sprayer of claim 4, wherein when the central member is in the closed position and pressurized fluid is introduced into the fluid input opening, the fluid flow pathway is in a closed condition such that no pressurized fluid exits the fluid output region.

6. The adjustable sprayer of claim 4, wherein the channels are positioned along a full angular extent of the outer member inner surface with intervening portions disposed between the channels.

7. The adjustable sprayer of claim 6, wherein when the central member is in an open position, the angular extent of the channels in the open state is 360°.

8. The adjustable sprayer of claim 4, further comprising a flow control mechanism for altering a volume of pressurized fluid flowing through the adjustable sprayer.

9. The adjustable sprayer of claim 8, wherein the flow control mechanism comprises a third set of threads and a fourth set of threads, the fourth set of threads being attached to a shaft that is moveable relative to the third set of threads to provide at least two different levels of obstruction of the passageway.

10. An adjustable sprayer defines a fluid flow pathway extending from a fluid input opening through a fluid output region, the adjustable sprayer comprising:a central member comprising a central member outer surface, the central member outer surface defining the fluid output region and a set of channels, each channel of the set of channels extending along at least a portion of the fluid flow pathway and comprising an entry opening and an exit opening, wherein, for each channel, the entry opening is disposed closer to the fluid input opening than the exit opening along the fluid flow pathway, and wherein the entry openings are offset along the fluid flow pathway in a helical pattern; an outer member comprising an outer member inner surface, the outer member inner surface defining a passageway and a seal receiving region, the passageway extending through the outer member, wherein the passageway comprises the fluid input opening; and an annular seal disposed within the seal receiving region, wherein the annular seal comprises an inward annular sealing region that engages with and creates a fluid-tight seal with at least a portion of the central member outer surface, wherein the central member is moveable relative to the inward annular sealing region of the outer member, wherein each channel having a corresponding entry opening disposed between the inward annular sealing region and the fluid input opening along the fluid flow pathway is in an open state and is in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening and the fluid output region, and wherein each channel having a corresponding entry opening disposed between the inward annular sealing region and the fluid output region along the fluid flow pathway is in a closed state and is not in fluid communication with both the fluid input opening and the fluid output region such that movement of the inward annular sealing region along the fluid flow pathway alters both a number and an angular extent of the channels in the open state.

11. The adjustable sprayer of claim 10, wherein the fluid output region comprises a sloped annular region, wherein the seal receiving region comprising a first annular edge and a second annular edge and an intervening annular space disposed between the first annular edge and the second annular edge along the fluid flow pathway, the annular seal being disposed within the intervening annular space, wherein the central member comprises a set of outwardly oriented threads, and wherein the outer member comprises a set of inwardly oriented threads shaped to engage with the set of outwardly oriented threads such that the central member is rotatably engaged with the outer member, and wherein rotational movement of the central member relative to the outer member alters a position of the inward annular sealing region relative to the entry openings along the fluid flow pathway.

12. The adjustable sprayer of claim 11, further comprising one or more recessed paths disposed within the set of outwardly oriented threads.

13. The adjustable sprayer of claim 12, wherein the central member is movable relative to the outer member between an open position, a partially open position, and a closed position, wherein the central member is in the open position when all of the channels are in the open state, wherein the central member is in the partially open position when at least one of the channels is in the open state and at least one of the channels is in the closed state, and, wherein the central member is in the closed position when all of the channels are in the closed state.

14. The adjustable sprayer of claim 13, wherein when the central member is in the closed position and pressurized fluid is introduced into the fluid input opening, the fluid flow pathway is in a closed condition such that no pressurized fluid exits the fluid output region.

15. The adjustable sprayer of claim 13, wherein the channels are positioned along a full angular extent of the outer member inner surface with intervening portions disposed between the channels.

16. The adjustable sprayer of claim 15, wherein when the central member is in an open position, the angular extent of the channels in the open state is 360°.

17. The adjustable sprayer of claim 13, further comprising a flow control mechanism for altering a volume of pressurized fluid flowing through the adjustable sprayer.

18. The adjustable sprayer of claim 17, wherein the flow control mechanism comprises a third set of threads and a fourth set of threads, the fourth set of threads being attached to a shaft that is moveable relative to the third set of threads to provide at least two different levels of obstruction of the passageway.

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