Adjustable Sprinkler Riser Using Hydraulic Piston for Height Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sprinkler head riser systems require excavation for height adjustment, are prone to damage under mower weight, and can be jammed by dirt or water contaminants, leading to inefficiencies and maintenance challenges in golf course management.
Innovation Solution
A sprinkler head riser apparatus using a cylinder and piston arrangement with a sealed control chamber, allowing fluid displacement to adjust pipe length without excavation, and a guard ring to prevent fouling by soil and contaminants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional swing joint adjustment is used to change sprinkler head height, then the sprinkler head height can be adjusted, but excavation is required which is time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment mechanism is extracted from the buried swing joint and brought to the surface through the extendible riser assembly. The telescoping bodies with internal threads allow height adjustment to be performed at ground level by simply unscrewing and extending the riser sections, eliminating the need for excavation to access adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The extendible riser assembly acts as an intermediary between the fixed underground piping and the adjustable sprinkler head. It provides a mechanical interface that allows height adjustment through telescoping sections with threaded connections, serving as a mediator that translates simple surface-level screwing/un-screwing actions into precise height adjustments without requiring excavation.
2Strength
If fixed structure is used to extend riser assembly and resist mower weight, then structural strength is provided, but the mechanism becomes jammed by dirt and contaminants
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional mechanical threaded connection system is replaced with a sealed telescoping mechanism where the second body telescopes within the first body. This substitution eliminates exposed threads and mechanical interfaces that are prone to catching dirt and contaminants, while maintaining structural strength through the telescoping design that can be sealed against environmental contamination.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescoping bodies are designed with smooth internal surfaces and can incorporate sealing elements (such as O-rings or gaskets) that create flexible barriers against dirt and contaminants. This flexible sealing approach prevents contaminants from entering the mechanism while allowing the telescoping motion to occur smoothly without jamming.
3Ease of operation
If telescoping bodies with threading are used for extension, then height adjustment is enabled, but the mechanism is prone to damage under mower weight
Solution Approach 1:
The riser assembly transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic telescoping structure. The ability of the second body to telescope within the first body provides both height adjustment capability and flexibility to accommodate vertical loads from mowers. The telescoping design allows the structure to flex and absorb impact forces rather than rigidly resisting them, preventing damage while maintaining adjustability.
4Ease of operation
If excavation is performed to adjust sprinkler head height, then height adjustment is achieved, but the area becomes unplayable for a period of time
Solution Approach 1:
The extendible riser assembly is designed to be self-adjusting at the surface level. The operator can simply unscrew and extend the telescoping sections to achieve the desired height, and the assembly remains in place without requiring backfilling or restoration work. This self-service capability at the surface eliminates the need to close off golf course areas for excavation and restoration, maintaining productivity and playability.
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 non-invasive height adjustment of sprinkler heads, withstands mower weight, and protects the mechanism from fouling, reducing maintenance time and costs while ensuring a flush surface for golf courses.
Implementation Method 1
a chamber operable to receive a control fluid thereby displacing the piston relative to the cylinder so as to lengthen the pipe
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for lengthening an extendible pipe comprised of first and second pipe portions having an interior includes a cylinder having an end wall and an open end connected to the first pipe portion. A piston is received in slidable and sealable engagement with the cylinder and is connected to the second pipe portion. The piston, cylinder and end wall define a chamber that is physically isolated from the interior of the pipe. Introduction of a control fluid into the chamber displaces the piston relative to the cylinder so as to lengthen the pipe. The apparatus above may be applied to a sprinkler head riser apparatus and buried as part of an in-ground sprinkler system.