Adapter Ball Valve Assembly for Independent Nozzle Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional agricultural crop spraying machines lack independent control over fluid flow to individual nozzle assemblies, resulting in simultaneous shut-off of fluid flow to all downstream nozzle assemblies when a large section valve is closed, leading to inefficient agro-chemical distribution.
Innovation Solution
An adapter valve assembly with an electrically-actuated ball valve is introduced, allowing independent control of fluid flow to each nozzle assembly along the spray boom pipe, enabling users to regulate fluid flow at each nozzle assembly independently of system pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a large section valve is closed to control fluid flow, then fluid flow to the section is shut off, but fluid flow is closed to all downstream nozzle assemblies including those that should remain operational
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fluid control system into individual nozzle assembly-level segments, replacing the conventional section-valve-based control with independent valves at each nozzle assembly. This segmentation allows precise control of fluid flow to specific nozzle assemblies without affecting downstream assemblies, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and productivity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional section valves are used for fluid regulation, then group control is achieved, but independent control of individual nozzle assemblies is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into independently controllable units at the nozzle assembly level. Each nozzle assembly receives its own valve, enabling flexible and independent regulation of fluid flow to individual assemblies while maintaining overall system manageability through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter valve assembly serves multiple functions: it provides individual valve control, maintains system pressure, enables flexible spray patterns, and integrates with existing nozzle assembly designs. This multi-functionality achieves adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If pressure-dependent valve operation is used, then simple valve design is maintained, but precise fluid distribution control is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces pressure-dependent mechanical valve operation with electrically-actuated valves that provide precise, controllable fluid distribution. This substitution enables accurate fluid distribution control while the electric actuation mechanisms remain relatively simple and integrate well with modern agricultural machinery control systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise control over fluid distribution to each nozzle assembly, allowing for flexible and efficient agro-chemical application without relying on pressure, thereby improving the distribution efficiency and reducing wastage.
Implementation Method 1
The adapter valve assembly includes an adapter configured to attach to the nozzle assembly and a ball valve coupled to the adapter. The ball valve includes a valve body and a ball configured to rotate within the valve body about a valve axis of the ball valve.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the disclosure provide an adapter valve assembly (200) and a method for installing an adapter valve assembly (200) that allows for independent control of fluid flow at an individual nozzle assembly (10, 140). The adapter valve assembly (200) can include a ball valve (150) that can be actuated by electricity to change its position. The adapter valve assembly (200) can function independent of the pressure or flow within the system and can be actuated as desired by the user. The adapter valve assembly (200) can also have internal threads (130) which can connect with the existing external threads on nozzle assemblies (10) already installed in the field. Therefore, the adapter valve assembly (200) can be used for retrofit applications.