Throttle ball valve and fertilization apparatus

Abstract

A throttle ball valve, comprising: a valve housing (1) in which a valve core cavity (111) is provided, wherein the valve housing is provided with a water inlet (112), a first water outlet (113) and at least one second water outlet (114) which are in communication with the valve core cavity; and a valve core (2) rotatably mounted in the valve core cavity, wherein the valve core comprises a hemispherical housing (21) and a side stop arm (22), the hemispherical housing being provided with a water passage hole (211) corresponding to the first water outlet, and the side stop arm being connected to the side portion of the hemispherical housing away from the water passage hole. The degree of overlap between the side stop arm and the second water outlet can be adjusted by means of the rotation of the valve core, so as to control the degree of opening of the second water outlet. The ball valve reduces the material consumption of the valve core and lowers costs, while increasing the effective containment volume in the valve core cavity, enhancing the pressure build-up effect and reducing the negative impact on the environment, thus conforming to the pursuit of resource-conserving and environment-friendly agricultural technologies. Further disclosed is a fertilization apparatus comprising the throttle ball valve.

Description

A control ball valve and fertilizer application equipment

[0001] This disclosure claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411627397.7, filed on November 14, 2024, entitled "A Control Ball Valve and Fertilizer Application Device", and Chinese Patent Application No. 202422790629.2, filed on November 14, 2024, entitled "A Control Ball Valve and Fertilizer Application Device", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to the technical fields of valves and sustainable agriculture, and more particularly to a control ball valve and a fertilization device. Background Technology

[0003] Differential pressure fertilizer tanks are important fertilization products in water-saving irrigation systems, with a wide range of applications, primarily used in orchards, greenhouses, and for crops such as melons, vegetables, cotton, and corn. A typical differential pressure fertilizer tank consists of a storage tank (fertilizer tank), piping, and a control valve. The control valve has an inlet, a main outlet, and a secondary outlet. The inlet connects to the inlet pipe, and the main outlet connects to the outlet pipe. The fertilizer tank is connected to this outlet of the control valve and the outlet pipe respectively via two thin pipes. The control valve creates a pressure difference between the inlet and outlet pipes, causing a portion of the water to flow into the fertilizer tank through one of the thin pipes. After the water dissolves the fertilizer in the tank, the fertilizer solution enters the outlet through the other thin pipe, carrying the fertilizer to the crop root zone.

[0004] Among these, the relevant control valves typically use control ball valves. A control ball valve consists of a valve body and a ball core rotatably mounted within the valve body. The rotation of the ball core adjusts the opening ratio of the main outlet and the secondary outlet, thereby regulating the outflow ratio and achieving the purpose of adjusting the fertilizer concentration. However, the ball core of these control ball valves has certain drawbacks: as shown in Figure 1, the ball core has a spherical structure with a central cylindrical through-hole. It is relatively thick, requiring more material and easily wasting resources. Furthermore, it occupies a large space within the valve body, leaving little room for pressure buildup. This results in a smaller inflow rate into the fertilizer storage tank, affecting the fertilizer dissolution and output efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The objectives of this disclosure include, for example, providing a control ball valve and a fertilizer applicator that, while ensuring normal regulation functions, achieves material reduction and debinding of the valve core, thereby reducing valve core material consumption, resource waste, and costs, while simultaneously increasing the effective volume within the valve core cavity and enhancing the pressure-holding effect.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present disclosure adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] On the one hand, a control ball valve is provided, comprising:

[0008] A valve housing has a valve core cavity inside, and the valve housing has an inlet, a first outlet and at least one second outlet communicating with the valve core cavity;

[0009] The valve core is rotatably installed in the valve core cavity; the valve core includes a hemispherical shell and a side stop arm. The hemispherical shell is provided with a water passage hole corresponding to the first water outlet. The side stop arm is connected to the side of the hemispherical shell away from the water passage hole. By rotating the valve core, the overlap between the side stop arm and the second water outlet can be adjusted to control the opening degree of the second water outlet.

[0010] In an optional embodiment, the overlap between the water passage and the first water outlet can be adjusted synchronously by rotating the valve core, thereby adjusting the opening of the first water outlet; and the larger the opening of the second water outlet, the smaller the opening of the first water outlet.

[0011] In an optional embodiment, the radial thickness of the hemispherical shell is uniformly distributed, and the radial thickness of the side arm is the same as the radial thickness of the hemispherical shell.

[0012] In an optional embodiment, the inner wall of the valve core is provided with a first reinforcing rib, which extends from the inner wall of the hemispherical shell to the inner wall of the side stop arm.

[0013] In an optional embodiment, the inner wall of the hemispherical shell is provided with a second reinforcing rib.

[0014] In an optional embodiment, the valve core is provided with a rotating shaft, the inner wall of the hemispherical shell near the rotating shaft is a first inner wall, and the inner wall opposite to the first inner wall is a second inner wall; the first inner wall and / or the second inner wall are provided with the second reinforcing rib.

[0015] In an optional embodiment, the valve housing includes a main housing and a sealing cover, and the valve core cavity is disposed within the main housing; one side of the main housing is also provided with an installation port communicating with the valve core cavity, and the valve core can be installed in the valve core cavity through the installation port; the sealing cover covers the installation port.

[0016] In an optional embodiment, the valve core is provided with a rotating shaft, and the main housing is provided with a shaft hole on the side away from the mounting port, and the rotating shaft extends out of the valve core cavity through the shaft hole.

[0017] In an optional embodiment, the valve core is further provided with a rotating boss on the side away from the rotating shaft, and the inner wall of the sealing cover is provided with a rotating mounting groove corresponding to the rotating boss, and the rotating boss can be rotatably installed into the rotating mounting groove.

[0018] In an optional embodiment, the main housing is provided with a connecting wall surrounding the mounting port, the connecting wall is provided with a first thread, and the sealing cover is provided with a corresponding second thread, the connecting wall being threadedly connected to the second thread through the first thread.

[0019] In an optional embodiment, the sealing cover has an annular groove corresponding to the connecting wall, the second thread is provided on the inner wall of the annular groove, and the connecting wall is embedded in the annular groove.

[0020] In an optional embodiment, a waterproof ring is provided at the bottom of the annular groove, and the connecting wall abuts against the waterproof ring.

[0021] In an optional embodiment, the valve housing is provided with two opposing second outlets, and a side baffle is connected to each of the two opposing sides of the hemispherical shell. The two side baffles are used to control the opening and closing of the two second outlets respectively.

[0022] The valve core can rotate relative to the valve shell to a first position. When the valve core rotates to the first position, the water inlet is connected to the inner cavity of the hemispherical shell, and the two second water outlets are respectively closed by the corresponding side baffles.

[0023] The valve core can rotate to a second position relative to the valve housing. When the valve core rotates to the second position, the water inlet is connected to the inner cavity of the hemispherical shell, one of the two second water outlets is connected to the inner cavity of the hemispherical shell, and the other of the two second water outlets is closed by the side baffle arm.

[0024] In an optional embodiment, a first sealing ring is provided at the first water outlet, the hemispherical shell abuts against the first sealing ring, and the inner diameter of the water passage hole does not exceed the inner diameter of the first sealing ring.

[0025] In an optional embodiment, a second sealing ring is provided at the second outlet, the side baffle abuts against the second sealing ring, and the size of the side baffle is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the second sealing ring.

[0026] In an optional embodiment, a controller is also included, which is connected to the valve core and can drive the valve core to rotate.

[0027] On the other hand, a fertilization device is provided, comprising:

[0028] The aforementioned control ball valve;

[0029] The main water inlet pipe is connected to the inlet of the control ball valve;

[0030] A multi-port connector is used to connect to the first outlet of the control ball valve;

[0031] The main water outlet pipe is connected to the multi-port connector;

[0032] The fertilizer storage tank includes a liquid inlet and a fertilizer outlet. The liquid inlet is connected to the second outlet of the control ball valve through a water inlet pipe, and the fertilizer outlet is connected to the multi-port connector through a fertilizer outlet pipe.

[0033] In an optional embodiment, multiple fertilizer storage tanks are provided, and the number of second water outlets is the same as the number of fertilizer storage tanks, with each fertilizer storage tank connected to one second water outlet.

[0034] In an optional embodiment, the fertilizer outlet pipeline is equipped with a check valve, which is used to prevent fertilizer solution from flowing backward from the multi-port connector to the fertilizer storage tank.

[0035] The beneficial effects of this disclosure are as follows: This disclosure provides a control ball valve, whose valve core is configured with a structure including a hemispherical shell and a side stop arm. The hemispherical shell serves as the main structure of the valve core and can be stably installed within the valve core cavity of the valve housing, enabling the valve core to rotate stably within the valve housing. The hemispherical shell is provided with a water passage hole, through which water in the valve core cavity can flow to the first outlet, achieving the purpose of main water discharge. Simultaneously, a side stop arm is connected to the side of the hemispherical shell away from the water passage hole. The side stop arm is used to cover the second outlet hole. By rotating the valve core, the overlap between the side stop arm and the second outlet hole can be adjusted, that is, the opening degree of the second outlet hole can be adjusted. When the opening degree of the second outlet hole changes, the ratio of the water flow from the first outlet hole and the second outlet hole also changes accordingly, thus achieving the purpose of regulating and controlling the water flow ratio of the first outlet hole and the second outlet hole. This valve core structure comprises only a hemispherical shell and a side stop arm. Compared to related ball core structures, it achieves material reduction through debonding while maintaining normal regulating function, thus reducing material consumption and lowering costs. Simultaneously, it increases the effective volume within the valve core cavity and enhances the pressure-holding effect. This control ball valve is specifically designed for sustainable agriculture, aiming to reduce material usage, avoid resource waste, minimize negative environmental impact, and promote the healthy and sustainable development of agricultural ecosystems. Attached Figure Description

[0036] The present disclosure will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0037] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the ball core of the relevant ball valve;

[0038] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the control ball valve according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 3 is a structural schematic diagram of the valve shell and valve core in the combined state of an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0040] Figure 4 is an exploded schematic diagram of the structure shown in Figure 3;

[0041] Figure 5 is one of the cross-sectional views of the structure shown in Figure 3;

[0042] Figure 6 is a second sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 3;

[0043] Figure 7 is the third sectional view of the structure shown in Figure 3;

[0044] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the valve core structure according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0045] Figure 9 is a second schematic diagram of the valve core structure according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0046] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fertilizer application equipment according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0047] Figure 11 is a state diagram of the control ball valve in the irrigation function according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0048] Figure 12 is a state diagram of the control ball valve in the embodiment of this disclosure when the fertilization function is turned on.

[0049] In the picture:

[0050] 1. Valve housing; 11. Main housing; 111. Valve core cavity; 112. Inlet; 113. First outlet; 114. Second outlet; 115. Mounting port; 116. Connecting enclosure; 1161. First thread; 117. Shaft hole; 12. Sealing cover; 121. Second thread; 122. Rotary mounting groove; 13. Waterproof ring; 14. First sealing ring; 15. Second sealing ring; 2. Valve core; 21. Hemisphere 211. Shell; 212. Water inlet; 213. Inner cavity of spherical shell; 214. First inner wall; 215. Second inner wall; 216. Side arm; 217. First reinforcing rib; 218. Second reinforcing rib; 219. Glue removal notch; 220. Rotating shaft; 220. Rotating boss; 23. Controller; 24. Fertilizer storage tank; 25. Water inlet pipe; 26. Fertilizer outlet pipe; 27. Check valve; 28. Main water inlet pipe; 29. ​​Main water outlet pipe; 20. Multi-port connector. Detailed Implementation

[0051] To make the technical problems solved, the technical solutions adopted, and the technical effects achieved by this disclosure clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure are further described in detail below. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this disclosure, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0052] In the description of this disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connected," "linked," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this disclosure based on the specific circumstances.

[0053] In this disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0054] Differential pressure fertilizer tanks are important fertilization products in water-saving irrigation systems, with a wide range of applications, primarily used in orchards, greenhouses, and for crops such as melons, vegetables, cotton, and corn. A typical differential pressure fertilizer tank consists of a storage tank (fertilizer tank), piping, and a control valve. The control valve has an inlet, a main outlet, and a secondary outlet. The inlet connects to the inlet pipe, and the main outlet connects to the outlet pipe. The fertilizer tank is connected to this outlet of the control valve and the outlet pipe respectively via two thin pipes. The control valve creates a pressure difference between the inlet and outlet pipes, causing a portion of the water to flow into the fertilizer tank through one of the thin pipes. After the water dissolves the fertilizer in the tank, the fertilizer solution enters the outlet through the other thin pipe, carrying the fertilizer to the crop root zone.

[0055] Among these, the relevant control valves typically use control ball valves. A control ball valve consists of a valve body and a ball core rotatably mounted within the valve body. The rotation of the ball core adjusts the opening ratio of the main outlet and the secondary outlet, thereby regulating the outflow ratio and achieving the purpose of adjusting the fertilizer concentration. However, the ball core of these control ball valves has certain drawbacks: as shown in Figure 1, the ball core has a spherical structure with a central cylindrical through-hole. It is relatively thick, requiring more material and easily wasting resources. Furthermore, it occupies a large space within the valve body, leaving little room for pressure buildup. This results in a smaller inflow rate into the fertilizer storage tank, affecting the fertilizer dissolution and output efficiency.

[0056] To overcome the above technical problems, this disclosure provides a regulating ball valve that can be applied to a differential pressure fertilizer tank system. It can regulate the pressure of the fertilizer tank and the fertilizer outlet pipeline 42, thereby adjusting the inflow of water into the fertilizer tank to regulate the fertilizer dissolution efficiency and fertilizer concentration. Furthermore, this regulating ball valve is not limited to the field of agricultural fertilization equipment. It can be understood that it is applicable in other scenarios where a regulating valve is needed to adjust the flow distribution ratio of two or more water lines. This regulating ball valve can optimize the allocation and utilization of water and fertilizer resources. Through precise control and fertilization operations, it reduces water and fertilizer waste, improves irrigation and fertilization efficiency, reduces component consumables, and avoids resource waste, thus meeting the pursuit of resource-saving and environmentally friendly agricultural technologies.

[0057] The control ball valve of this embodiment includes a valve body 1 and a valve core 2. The valve body 1 has a valve core cavity 111 inside. The valve body 1 has an inlet 112, a first outlet 113, and at least one second outlet 114 communicating with the valve core cavity 111. The valve core 2 is rotatably installed in the valve core cavity 111. The valve core 2 includes a hemispherical shell 21 and a side baffle 22. The hemispherical shell 21 has a water passage hole 211 corresponding to the first outlet 113. The side baffle 22 is connected to the side of the hemispherical shell 21 away from the water passage hole 211. By rotating the valve core 2, the overlap between the side baffle 22 and the second outlet 114 can be adjusted to control the opening degree of the second outlet 114.

[0058] For ease of explanation, taking the application of the control ball valve of this embodiment in a differential pressure fertilizer tank system as an example, referring to Figure 10, in application, the inlet 112 of the valve body 1 is connected to the main inlet pipe 5, the first outlet 113 is connected to the main outlet pipe 6, the fertilizer storage tank 4 is connected to the second outlet 114 through the inlet pipe 41, and is connected to the main outlet pipe 6 through the fertilizer outlet pipe 42; referring to Figure 12, when the first outlet 113 and the second outlet 114 are opened simultaneously, water flows from the inlet 112 into the valve core cavity 111 through the main inlet pipe 5. After being distributed by the valve core cavity 111, part of the water flows directly from the first outlet 113 to the main outlet pipe 6, and the other part of the water flows from the second outlet 114 to the inlet pipe 41, and after passing through the fertilizer storage tank 4 and the fertilizer outlet pipe 42, it flows to the main outlet pipe 6, mixes with the water in the main outlet pipe 6, and is then transported to the fertilizer target point. Therefore, it can be understood that by allocating the flow rate ratio between the first outlet 113 and the second outlet 114, the concentration of fertilizer solution in the main outlet pipe 6 can be controlled. Precise control of the fertilizer solution concentration reduces fertilizer loss during dissolution and transport, thus mitigating soil and water pollution caused by excessive fertilization.

[0059] In this embodiment, a rotatable valve core 2 is provided inside the valve housing 1. Regarding the specific structure of the valve core 2, refer to Figure 8. It includes a hemispherical shell 21 and a side baffle arm 22. The hemispherical shell 21 is provided with a first outlet 113 for connecting the first outlet 113 and the valve core cavity 111, so that the water in the valve core cavity 111 can flow to the first outlet 113 through the water passage 211. At the same time, a side baffle arm 22 is connected to the side of the hemispherical shell 21. The side baffle arm 22 is used to block the second outlet 114 to control the opening degree of the second outlet 114. It can be understood that the size design of the side baffle arm 22 is only required to completely block the second outlet 114 and completely close the second outlet 114.

[0060] Comparing Figure 1 and Figure 8, the ball core of the related technology is a spherical structure with a central cylindrical through hole. It has a large overall thickness, consumes a lot of materials, and occupies a large space inside the valve housing 1, resulting in a small effective volume inside the valve housing 1. The valve core 2 structure disclosed herein includes a hemispherical shell 21 and a side baffle 22. The side baffle 22 protrudes from one side of the hemispherical shell 21, and its size is only required to cover the second outlet 114. Therefore, taking the angle shown in Figure 8 as an example, a notch 25 is actually formed on the upper and lower sides of the side baffle 22. Compared with the related spherical core structure, the structure of the notch 25 is equivalent to removing some unnecessary material. This achieves the material reduction effect of the valve core 2 and reduces the space occupied by the valve core 2 in the valve shell 1, thereby increasing the effective volume of the valve shell 1. It can be understood that the larger the effective volume in the valve shell 1, the better the pressure-holding effect it can produce. With the same opening of the second outlet 114, this is more conducive to using the pressure difference to allow water to flow fully into the fertilizer storage tank 4, increasing the water flow rate of the second outlet 114, and improving the fertilizer dissolution and output efficiency in the fertilizer storage tank 4. This allows for precise control of fertilizer application amount and time, reduces fertilizer waste, and improves fertilizer utilization.

[0061] The opening ratio of the first outlet 113 and the second outlet 114 can be adjusted by rotating the valve core 2, thereby achieving the purpose of adjusting the water flow ratio of the first outlet 113 and the second outlet 114. The valve core 2 in this design includes a hemispherical shell 21 and a side baffle 22. The valve core cavity 111, located within the valve housing 1, is a spherical cavity, and the outer surface of the hemispherical shell 21 is a corresponding hemispherical surface. This ensures that after the valve core 2 is installed in the valve core cavity 111, the outer surface of the hemispherical shell 21 can contact the inner surface of the valve housing 1, achieving stable installation of the valve core 2 within the valve housing 1 and stable rotation within the valve core cavity 111. Simultaneously, the rotation of the valve core 2 adjusts the overlap between the side baffle 22 and the second outlet 114. The higher the overlap between the side baffle 22 and the second outlet 114, the smaller the opening of the second outlet 114, and the smaller the water flow rate of the second outlet 114. The second outlet 114 has an opening degree of 0~100%. It can achieve precise control of water flow and fertilizer injection. By precisely adjusting the valve opening, it can ensure the uniformity and consistency of irrigation and fertilization, and improve fertilizer waste and environmental pollution caused by uneven fertilization.

[0062] Therefore, in the control ball valve of this embodiment, the valve core 2 is configured to include a hemispherical shell 21 and a side stop arm 22. The hemispherical shell 21 serves as the main structure of the valve core 2 and can be stably installed in the valve core cavity 111 of the valve body 1, so that the valve core 2 can rotate stably in the valve body 1. The hemispherical shell 21 is provided with a water passage hole 211, through which water in the valve core cavity 111 can flow to the first outlet 113, thus achieving the purpose of main water outlet. At the same time, a side baffle arm 22 is connected to the side of the hemispherical shell 21 away from the water passage hole 211. The side baffle arm 22 is used to cover the second outlet hole. By rotating the valve core 2, the overlap between the side baffle arm 22 and the second outlet 114 can be adjusted, that is, the opening of the second outlet 114 is adjusted. When the opening of the second outlet 114 changes, the ratio of the water flow of the first outlet 113 and the second outlet 114 also changes accordingly, thus achieving the purpose of adjusting and controlling the water flow ratio of the first outlet 113 and the second outlet 114. The valve core 2 structure in this design only includes a hemispherical shell 21 and a side stop arm 22. Compared to related ball core structures, it achieves material reduction by removing glue from the valve core 2 while ensuring normal adjustment functions, thus reducing material consumption and lowering costs. Simultaneously, it increases the effective volume within the valve core cavity 111, enhancing the pressure-holding effect. By optimizing fertilization and irrigation, environmental pollution is reduced, meeting the fundamental requirements of green agriculture.

[0063] Optionally, the overlap between the water passage 211 and the first water outlet 113 can be adjusted synchronously by rotating the valve core 2, thereby adjusting the opening of the first water outlet 113; and the larger the opening of the second water outlet 114, the smaller the opening of the first water outlet 113.

[0064] When the valve core 2 rotates within the valve core cavity 111, the overlap between the side baffle 22 and the second outlet 114 changes, thereby adjusting the opening of the second outlet 114. Simultaneously, due to the rotation of the hemispherical shell 21, the overlap between the water passage 211 and the first outlet 113 also changes, further adjusting the opening of the first outlet 113. In this design, there is an inverse relationship between the opening of the second outlet 114 and the opening of the first outlet 113; that is, when the opening of the second outlet 114 increases, the opening of the first outlet 113 decreases accordingly, and vice versa. This inverse relationship ensures that the total water output of the system remains constant, only changing the flow distribution ratio between the first outlet 113 and the second outlet 114. This design allows for more precise control of the inflow to the fertilizer tank and the outflow from the main outlet pipe 6, thus achieving precise adjustment of the fertilizer concentration.

[0065] This not only improves the uniformity and efficiency of fertilization, but also helps reduce water waste and excessive use of chemical fertilizers, thus reducing the negative environmental impact of agricultural activities.

[0066] Optionally, the radial thickness of the hemispherical shell 21 is uniformly distributed, and the radial thickness of the side arm 22 is the same as the radial thickness of the hemispherical shell 21.

[0067] The relevant ball core is a spherical structure with a cylindrical through hole in the center. Therefore, the thickness of the relevant ball core is actually different at different positions along the axial direction of the cylindrical through hole. The overall thickness of the ball core is relatively thick and uneven. This makes the roundness of the ball core more susceptible to the influence of the non-directional thermal shrinkage of the plastic during injection molding, which in turn affects the roundness of the ball core and ultimately leads to the problem of high rotational resistance of the ball core.

[0068] In the valve core 2 structure of this solution, the hemispherical shell 21 and the side stop arm 22 adopt a uniform and identical radial thickness. This ensures the uniformity of the wall thickness of the entire valve core 2, effectively mitigating the problem of non-directional thermal shrinkage of the plastic during injection molding affecting the roundness of the valve core 2. Simultaneously, the uniform wall thickness of the entire valve core 2, compared to existing technologies, is equivalent to achieving an overall thinning of the valve core 2. This further reduces the material consumption of the valve core 2, while increasing the effective volume within the valve core cavity 111 and optimizing the pressure-holding effect.

[0069] Optionally, referring to Figure 8, the inner wall of the valve core 2 is provided with a first reinforcing rib 23, which extends from the inner wall of the hemispherical shell 21 to the inner wall of the side arm 22.

[0070] The first reinforcing rib 23 extends from the inner wall of the hemispherical shell 21 to the inner wall of the side stop arm 22, forming a continuous support structure. This design significantly enhances the overall structural strength of the valve core 2, enabling it to withstand greater pressure and torque, thereby improving the durability and reliability of the valve core 2. Under high pressure or high torque conditions, the valve core 2 is prone to deformation, affecting its normal operation. The addition of the first reinforcing rib 23 in this solution effectively reduces the possibility of such deformation, maintaining the original shape and dimensional accuracy of the valve core 2.

[0071] Specifically, the first reinforcing rib 23 is provided on the side wall where the hemispherical shell 21 connects to the side arm 22. It extends from the inner wall of the first hemispherical shell 21 to the inner wall of the side arm 22, so as to simultaneously strengthen the hemispherical shell 21 and the side arm 22.

[0072] Optionally, the inner wall of the hemispherical shell 21 is provided with a second reinforcing rib 24.

[0073] Specifically, the second reinforcing rib 24 is disposed on the side wall of the hemispherical shell 21 where the side stop arm 22 is not connected. It is disposed inside the first hemispherical shell 21 to reinforce the hemispherical shell 21. Similarly, the addition of the second reinforcing rib 24 in this solution effectively reduces the possibility of deformation of the hemispherical shell 21, maintaining the original shape and dimensional accuracy of the valve core 2.

[0074] Optionally, the valve core 2 is provided with a rotating shaft 26, the inner wall of the hemispherical shell 21 near the rotating shaft 26 is a first inner wall 213, and the inner wall opposite to the first inner wall 213 is a second inner wall; the first inner wall 213 and / or the second inner wall 214 are provided with the second reinforcing rib 24.

[0075] Specifically, the rotation center of the valve core 2 is located at the center of the rotation shaft 26. Assuming the rotation shaft 26 is located at the top of the valve core 2, the side stop arms 22 should be set on the left and right sides of the valve core, that is, the left and right inner walls of the valve core 2 will be provided with first reinforcing ribs 23. Then, the inner top wall (i.e., the first inner wall 213) and the inner bottom wall (i.e., the second inner wall 214) of the valve core 2 are provided with second reinforcing ribs 24. Combined with the setting of the first reinforcing ribs 23, the entire inner wall of the valve core 2 is strengthened.

[0076] Optionally, the valve housing 1 includes a main housing 11 and a sealing cover 12, and the valve core cavity 111 is disposed in the main housing 11; one side of the main housing 11 is also provided with an installation port 115 communicating with the valve core cavity 111, and the valve core 2 can be installed in the valve core cavity 111 through the installation port 115; the sealing cover 12 covers the installation port 115.

[0077] As the main body of the valve housing 1, the main housing 11 has a valve core cavity 111 inside to accommodate the valve core 2. One side of the main housing 11 has a mounting port 115 communicating with the valve core cavity 111. This mounting port 115 allows the valve core 2 to be easily installed into the valve core cavity 111. A sealing cap 12 is used to cover the mounting port 115, ensuring the sealing of the valve core cavity 111. The sealing cap 12 and the main housing 11 can be fixed together by threaded connection, snap-fit ​​connection, or other reliable connection methods to prevent fluid or gas leakage from the mounting port 115.

[0078] The valve core 2 can be installed by inserting it into the valve core cavity 111 through the mounting port 115, and then covering it with the sealing cover 12 and fixing it. This design makes the replacement and maintenance of the valve core 2 simpler and faster. When it is necessary to disassemble the valve core 2, simply loosen the connection between the sealing cover 12 and the main housing 11 to easily remove the valve core 2. This design improves the convenience and efficiency of maintenance.

[0079] On the other hand, the valve shell 1 of this solution is designed with a main shell 11 and a sealing cover 12, which allows the valve core 2 to be repeatedly disassembled and reassembled with the valve shell 1. This perfectly meets the application requirements of the valve core 2 structure in this embodiment. In the traditional ball valve molding process, the ball core is usually injection molded first, and then the valve shell is directly injection molded on the outside of the ball core using the ball core as an inner mold. Therefore, in the structure of the ball core, except for the central cylindrical through hole, its outer surface needs to be set as a complete spherical surface to achieve the structure of a valve shell with a spherical cavity after injection molding. Moreover, after injection molding, the ball core is restricted inside the valve shell and cannot be disassembled. Therefore, under the limitations of the relevant ball valve processing technology, those skilled in the art cannot remove the glue and material from the structure of the ball core.

[0080] In this design, the valve core 2 and valve shell 1 are separately injection molded and then assembled. There is no need to use the valve core 2 as an inner mold to injection mold the valve shell 1. Therefore, the molding of the valve shell 1 does not depend on the structure of the valve core 2. Thus, the valve core 2 can be designed with a notch 25 for removing glue.

[0081] Optionally, the valve core 2 is provided with a rotating shaft 26, and the main housing 11 is provided with a shaft hole 117 on the side away from the mounting port 115, and the rotating shaft 26 extends out of the valve core cavity 111 through the shaft hole 117.

[0082] The main function of the rotating shaft 26 is to transmit rotational force, so that external operating mechanisms (such as handles, motors, etc.) can drive the valve core 2 to rotate through the rotating shaft 26, thereby changing the opening and closing state of the valve or regulating the flow.

[0083] The shaft hole 117 and the mounting port 115 are respectively located on two opposite sides of the main housing 11, which makes it convenient to directly align the rotating shaft 26 with the shaft hole 117 when installing the valve core 2, thus simplifying the installation difficulty of the valve core 2.

[0084] Optionally, referring to Figure 5, the valve core 2 is further provided with a rotating boss 27 on the side away from the rotating shaft 26, and the inner wall of the sealing cover 12 is provided with a rotating mounting groove 122 corresponding to the rotating boss 27, and the rotating boss 27 can be rotatably installed into the rotating mounting groove.

[0085] A rotating boss 27 is provided on the side of the valve core 2 away from the rotating shaft 26. This is a protruding structure designed to match the rotating mounting groove 122 on the inner wall of the sealing cover 12. The design of the rotating boss 27 ensures that the valve core 2 remains stable during rotation, preventing the valve from being affected by shaking or displacement.

[0086] Optionally, referring to FIG5, the main housing 11 is provided with a connecting wall 116 surrounding the mounting port 115. The connecting wall 116 is provided with a first thread 1161, and the sealing cover 12 is provided with a corresponding second thread 121. The connecting wall 116 is threadedly connected to the second thread 121 through the first thread 1161.

[0087] By adding a connecting wall 116 and a threaded connection, this embodiment effectively increases the connection area between the sealing cover 12 and the main housing 11, strengthens the tight and stable connection between the sealing cover 12 and the main housing 11, and improves the sealing performance and reliability of the valve.

[0088] Optionally, the sealing cap 12 is provided with an annular groove corresponding to the connecting wall 116, the second thread 121 is provided on the inner wall of the annular groove, and the connecting wall 116 is embedded in the annular groove.

[0089] The sealing cover 12 has an annular groove corresponding to the connecting wall 116. This is a recessed annular structure used to accommodate the connecting wall 116. The design of the annular groove ensures that the connecting wall 116 can be accurately positioned and embedded in it during installation, thereby achieving a tight connection with the sealing cover 12. By adding the annular groove and setting the second thread 121 on the inner wall of the annular groove, this embodiment further enhances the tight fit and stable connection between the connecting wall 116 and the annular groove, improving the sealing performance and reliability of the valve.

[0090] Optionally, a waterproof ring 13 is provided at the bottom of the annular groove, and the connecting wall 116 abuts against the waterproof ring 13.

[0091] A waterproof ring 13 is added to the bottom of the annular groove and abuts against the connecting wall 116. This ensures that the waterproof ring 13 is effectively compressed and filled in the gap between the annular groove and the connecting wall 116, thereby forming a tight waterproof barrier and further improving the waterproof performance of the valve.

[0092] Optionally, the valve housing 1 is provided with two opposing second outlets 114, and a side baffle 22 is connected to each of the two opposing sides of the hemispherical shell 21. The two side baffles 22 are used to control the opening and closing of the two second outlets 114 respectively.

[0093] As shown in Figure 11, the valve core 2 can rotate relative to the valve shell 1 to a first position. When the valve core 2 rotates to the first position, the water inlet 112 is connected to the inner cavity 212 of the hemispherical shell 21, and the two second water outlets 114 are respectively closed by the corresponding side baffles 22.

[0094] As shown in Figure 12, the valve core 2 can rotate relative to the valve housing 1 to a second position. When the valve core 2 rotates to the second position, the inlet 112 is connected to the inner cavity 212 of the hemispherical shell 21, one of the two second outlets 114 is connected to the inner cavity of the hemispherical shell 21, and the other of the two second outlets 114 is closed by the side baffle 22.

[0095] The installation of two second outlets 114 means that the valve can connect to two fertilizer storage tanks 4 at the same time, thereby providing a larger fertilizer storage capacity and a more flexible fertilization method, reducing the number of times fertilizer raw materials need to be added manually to the fertilizer storage tank 4.

[0096] The valve housing 1 can be provided with a second water outlet on the left and right sides respectively. Each second water outlet can be connected to the liquid inlet of the corresponding fertilizer storage tank. The valve core 2 can rotate to the left or right relative to the valve housing 1 so that one of the second water outlets is opened and the other second water outlet is closed.

[0097] In actual use, the fertilization equipment can be used for fertilization or irrigation alone. When fertilization is not required, the valve core 2 can be rotated relative to the valve shell 1 to the first position, the inlet 112 is connected to the inner cavity 212 of the hemispherical shell 21, and the two second outlets 114 are closed by the corresponding side baffles 22. The water flows directly from the inlet to the inner cavity of the hemispherical shell, and then flows from the first outlet to the main outlet pipe. When the two second outlets 114 are closed by the corresponding side baffles 22, that is, they are not connected to the fertilizer tank, the irrigation function can be realized.

[0098] When fertilizing, the fertilization equipment can be set up with one fertilizer tank at a time, that is, only one second water outlet is connected to the fertilizer tank through the water inlet pipe. The valve core can be controlled to rotate so that the second water outlet is connected to the fertilizer tank, thereby realizing the fertilization function.

[0099] When fertilizing, two fertilizer tanks can be set up at the same time. The valve core can be rotated to the left to open the second outlet of one tank and close the second outlet of the other. When the fertilizer in one tank is used up, the valve core can be rotated to the right to open the second outlet of the other tank and close the previously opened outlet, so as to realize the function of fertilizing through the two fertilizer tanks in sequence.

[0100] Furthermore, each of the two second outlets 114 can only be opened individually, meaning that at any given time, only one of the two second outlets 114 can be open or both can be closed simultaneously. This allows the valve to flexibly choose to supply fertilizer solution to one fertilizer storage tank 4 or to completely stop the supply. When both second outlets 114 are closed at the same time, only the first outlet 113 is open, at which point all the water will flow to the first outlet 113, thus allowing irrigation to be carried out using this pipeline.

[0101] Optionally, referring to Figure 6, a first sealing ring 14 is provided at the first water outlet 113, the hemispherical shell 21 abuts against the first sealing ring 14, and the inner diameter of the water passage 211 does not exceed the inner diameter of the first sealing ring 14.

[0102] The first sealing ring 14 is disposed at the first outlet 113, and its function is to prevent water from leaking from the gap between the first outlet 113 and the hemispherical shell 21. The sealing ring is usually made of elastic material, such as rubber or silicone, to ensure that it can fit tightly between the outlet and the hemispherical shell 21.

[0103] Optionally, referring to Figure 7, a second sealing ring 15 is provided at the second outlet 114, the side baffle 22 abuts against the second sealing ring 15, and the size of the side baffle 22 is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the second sealing ring 15.

[0104] The second sealing ring 15 is disposed at the second outlet 114. Its function is to prevent water leakage from the gap between the outlet and the side baffle 22. Similar to the first sealing ring 14, the second sealing ring 15 is also typically made of an elastic material to ensure that it can fit tightly between the second outlet 114 and the side baffle 22. The side baffle 22 is designed to be larger than or equal to the outer diameter of the second sealing ring 15, so that the side baffle 22 can completely cover the second sealing ring 15 to shut off the second outlet 114.

[0105] Optionally, referring to Figure 1, the system further includes a controller 3, which is connected to the valve core 2 in a transmission manner, and the controller 3 can drive the valve core 2 to rotate.

[0106] Specifically, the controller 3 includes a motor and a gearbox, which are connected to the rotating shaft 26 of the valve core 2. Driven by the motor, it can automatically adjust the angle of the valve core 2. In a practical implementation, a control board can also be integrated into the controller 3. The control board integrates a wireless communication module, allowing users to control the valve remotely via a terminal.

[0107] On the other hand, referring to Figure 10, this embodiment also provides a fertilizer application device, including:

[0108] The aforementioned control ball valve;

[0109] The main water inlet pipe 5 is connected to the water inlet 112 of the control ball valve;

[0110] The multi-port connector 7 is connected to the first outlet 113 of the control ball valve;

[0111] The main water outlet pipe 6 is connected to the multi-port connector 7;

[0112] The fertilizer storage tank 4 includes an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is connected to the second outlet 114 of the control ball valve via an inlet pipe 41, and the outlet is connected to the multi-port connector 7 via an outlet pipe 42.

[0113] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, the flow direction of water in the valve core cavity 111 can be controlled by the control ball valve, thereby achieving the purpose of controlling fertilization and irrigation. Specifically, referring to the state shown in Figure 11, when the irrigation function is activated, the second outlet 114 of the control ball valve is closed, and all the water in the valve core cavity 111 flows out through the first outlet 113. Referring to the state shown in Figure 12, when the fertilization function is activated, one of the second outlets 114 of the control ball valve is opened. Part of the water in the valve core cavity 111 flows through the first outlet 113 to the multi-way connector 7, and the other part flows through the second outlet 114 to the inlet pipe 41, then through the fertilizer storage tank 4 and the fertilizer outlet pipe 42 to the multi-way connector 7 for collection, and then flows to the fertilization destination. Moreover, the water output ratio of the first outlet 113 and the second outlet 114 can be controlled by the rotation angle of the valve core 2, which can achieve the function of controlling the fertilizer concentration. Therefore, this embodiment can control the fertilization rate and switch between fertilization and irrigation functions through a single control ball valve, which has the advantages of simple structure and rich functions.

[0114] In addition, the control ball valve in the fertilizer application equipment of this embodiment also has the advantages of low material consumption, low cost, and strong pressure holding capacity.

[0115] Optionally, multiple fertilizer storage tanks 4 are provided, and the number of second water outlets 114 is the same as the number of fertilizer storage tanks 4, with each fertilizer storage tank 4 connected to one second water outlet 114.

[0116] Setting up multiple fertilizer storage tanks 4 can provide a larger fertilizer storage capacity and more flexible fertilization methods, reducing the number of times fertilizer raw materials are manually added to the fertilizer storage tanks 4. Moreover, by selecting and opening a certain second water outlet 114, fertilizer can be supplied to the fertilizer storage tank 4 connected to that second water outlet 114.

[0117] The multi-port connector 7 also needs to be set reasonably according to the number of fertilizer storage tanks 4. The multi-port connector 7 includes two main connection ports and multiple secondary connection ports. The two main connection ports are connected to the valve body 1 and the main water outlet pipe 6 respectively. Each fertilizer storage tank 4 is connected to a secondary connection port through a fertilizer outlet pipe 42.

[0118] Optionally, the fertilizer outlet pipeline 42 is equipped with a check valve 43, which is used to prevent fertilizer solution from flowing backward from the multi-port connector 7 to the fertilizer storage tank 4.

[0119] A check valve 43 is installed on the fertilizer outlet pipeline 42 to improve the problem of fertilizer liquid flowing back from the multi-port connector 7 into the fertilizer storage tank 4, which causes system malfunction.

[0120] In the description herein, it should be understood that the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and other orientations or positional relationships are used only for ease of description and simplification of operation, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this disclosure. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used merely for descriptive distinction and have no special meaning.

[0121] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "an embodiment," "example," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this disclosure. In this specification, illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example.

[0122] Furthermore, it should be understood that although this specification describes embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This narrative style of the specification is merely for clarity. Those skilled in the art should consider the specification as a whole, and the technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other embodiments that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0123] The technical principles of this disclosure have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. These descriptions are merely for explaining the principles of this disclosure and should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this disclosure in any way. Based on this explanation, those skilled in the art can readily conceive of other specific embodiments of this disclosure without inventive effort, and these embodiments will all fall within the scope of protection of this disclosure. Industrial applicability

[0124] The control ball valve disclosed herein enables the valve core to be degassed and reduced in material while ensuring normal regulation function. This reduces valve core material consumption, resource waste, and costs, while increasing the effective volume within the valve core cavity and enhancing the pressure-holding effect.

Claims

1. A control ball valve, characterized in that, include: The valve housing (1) has a valve core cavity (111) inside. The valve housing (1) has an inlet (112), a first outlet (113) and at least one second outlet (114) that communicate with the valve core cavity (111). The valve core (2) is rotatably installed in the valve core cavity (111). The valve core (2) includes a hemispherical shell (21) and a side baffle (22). The hemispherical shell (21) is provided with a water passage hole (211) corresponding to the first water outlet (113). The side baffle (22) is connected to the side of the hemispherical shell (21) away from the water passage hole (211). The overlap between the side baffle (22) and the second water outlet (114) can be adjusted by rotating the valve core (2), thereby controlling the opening degree of the second water outlet (114).

2. The control ball valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotation of the valve core (2) can also synchronously adjust the overlap between the water passage (211) and the first water outlet (113), thereby adjusting the opening of the first water outlet (113); and the larger the opening of the second water outlet (114), the smaller the opening of the first water outlet (113).

3. The control ball valve according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The radial thickness of the hemispherical shell (21) is uniformly distributed, and the radial thickness of the side arm (22) is the same as that of the hemispherical shell (21).

4. The control ball valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The inner wall of the valve core (2) is provided with a first reinforcing rib (23), which extends from the inner wall of the hemispherical shell (21) to the inner wall of the side arm (22).

5. The control ball valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The inner wall of the hemispherical shell (21) is provided with a second reinforcing rib (24).

6. The control ball valve according to claim 5, characterized in that, The valve core (2) is provided with a rotating shaft (26), and the inner wall of the hemispherical shell (21) near the rotating shaft (26) is the first inner wall (213), and the inner wall opposite to the first inner wall (213) is the second inner wall (214); the first inner wall (213) and / or the second inner wall (214) are provided with the second reinforcing rib (24).

7. The control ball valve according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The valve housing (1) includes a main housing (11) and a sealing cover (12). The valve core cavity (111) is disposed in the main housing (11). The main housing (11) is also provided with an installation port (115) communicating with the valve core cavity (111) on one side. The valve core (2) can be installed in the valve core cavity (111) through the installation port (115). The sealing cover (12) covers the installation port (115).

8. The control ball valve according to claim 7, characterized in that, The valve core (2) is provided with a rotating shaft (26), and the main housing (11) is provided with a shaft hole (117) on the side away from the mounting port (115). The rotating shaft (26) extends out of the valve core cavity (111) through the shaft hole (117).

9. The control ball valve according to claim 8, characterized in that, The valve core (2) is provided with a rotating boss (27) on the side away from the rotating shaft (26). The inner wall of the sealing cover (12) is provided with a rotating mounting groove (122) corresponding to the rotating boss (27). The rotating boss (27) can be rotatably installed into the rotating mounting groove (122).

10. The control ball valve according to claim 7, characterized in that, The main housing (11) is provided with a connecting wall (116) surrounding the mounting port (115). The connecting wall (116) is provided with a first thread (1161), and the sealing cover (12) is provided with a corresponding second thread (121). The connecting wall (116) is threadedly connected to the second thread (121) through the first thread (1161).

11. The control ball valve according to claim 10, characterized in that, The sealing cap (12) is provided with an annular groove corresponding to the connecting wall (116), and the second thread (121) is provided on the inner wall of the annular groove, and the connecting wall (116) is embedded in the annular groove.

12. The control ball valve according to claim 11, characterized in that, A waterproof ring (13) is provided at the bottom of the annular groove, and the connecting wall (116) abuts against the waterproof ring (13).

13. The control ball valve according to any one of claims 1-12, characterized in that, The valve housing (1) is provided with two opposing second outlets (114), and a side baffle (22) is connected to each of the two opposite sides of the hemispherical shell (21). The two side baffles (22) are used to control the opening and closing of the two second outlets (114). The valve core (2) can rotate relative to the valve shell (1) to a first position. When the valve core (2) rotates to the first position, the water inlet (112) is connected to the inner cavity (212) of the hemispherical shell (21), and the two second water outlets (114) are closed by the corresponding side baffles (22). The valve core (2) can rotate relative to the valve housing (1) to a second position. When the valve core (2) rotates to the second position, the inlet (112) is connected to the inner cavity (212) of the hemispherical shell (21), one of the two second outlets (114) is connected to the inner cavity (212) of the hemispherical shell (21), and the other of the two second outlets (114) is closed by the side baffle (22).

14. The control ball valve according to any one of claims 1-13, characterized in that, A first sealing ring (14) is provided at the first water outlet (113), the hemispherical shell (21) abuts against the first sealing ring (14), and the inner diameter of the water passage (211) does not exceed the inner diameter of the first sealing ring (14).

15. The control ball valve according to any one of claims 1-14, characterized in that, A second sealing ring (15) is provided at the second outlet (114), the side baffle (22) abuts against the second sealing ring (15), and the size of the side baffle (22) is greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the second sealing ring (15).

16. The control ball valve according to any one of claims 1-15, characterized in that, It also includes a controller (3), which is connected to the valve core (2) in a transmission manner, and the controller (3) can drive the valve core (2) to rotate.

17. A fertilizer application device, characterized in that, include: The control ball valve as described in any one of claims 1-16; The main water inlet pipe (5) is connected to the water inlet (112) of the control ball valve; A multi-port connector (7) is connected to the first outlet (113) of the control ball valve; The main water outlet pipe (6) is connected to the multi-port connector (7); The fertilizer storage tank (4) includes an inlet and an outlet. The inlet of the fertilizer storage tank is connected to the second outlet (114) of the control ball valve through an inlet pipe (41), and the outlet is connected to the multi-port connector (7) through an outlet pipe (42).

18. The fertilizer application equipment according to claim 17, characterized in that, Multiple fertilizer storage tanks (4) are provided, and the number of second water outlets (114) is the same as the number of fertilizer storage tanks (4). Each fertilizer storage tank (4) is connected to one second water outlet (114).

19. The fertilizer application equipment according to claim 17, characterized in that, The fertilizer outlet pipeline (42) is equipped with a check valve (43), which is used to prevent fertilizer liquid from flowing backward from the multi-port connector (7) to the fertilizer storage tank (4).

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