Automated Water Coupling With Valve Control for Irrigation Robots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irrigation systems face challenges in automated coupling and decoupling from water supplies, often requiring user intervention and risking water spillage during filling procedures, especially in self-moving irrigation devices.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for automated coupling and decoupling of devices, such as irrigation robots, to a water supply using a first coupling device with a central duct and a second coupling device equipped with a valve, allowing for automated approach, engagement, valve opening, and disengagement without user intervention, utilizing a securing sleeve and spring-loaded engagement claw for secure connection and disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated coupling and decoupling is implemented, then user intervention is eliminated and productivity is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional coupling mechanisms and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed to perform automated coupling and decoupling operations without user intervention. The first coupling device on the irrigation device automatically engages with the second coupling device on the water supply, and the decoupling process is equally automated, allowing the system to serve itself rather than requiring manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism employs a nested structure where the first coupling device contains internal components (such as the securing sleeve and engagement claw) that fit within or interact with the second coupling device. This nesting approach allows multiple functional elements to be compactly integrated, reducing overall complexity while maintaining automated functionality.
2Reliability
If automated valve opening is implemented during coupling, then water spillage risk is reduced and reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to integrated valve control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The valve control function is merged with the coupling mechanism itself. The act of coupling the first coupling device to the second coupling device simultaneously triggers the valve opening action, combining two functions (coupling and valve control) into a single integrated operation. This eliminates the need for separate valve control systems and reduces overall complexity while improving reliability through automated spillage prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve is opened in advance during the coupling process, before water flow is established. This preliminary action ensures the valve is already open and ready when water begins to flow, preventing any potential spillage. The valve opening is triggered as part of the coupling sequence, ensuring proper timing without requiring additional control complexity.
3Reliability
If engagement claw with spring element is used, then coupling security is improved and reliability is enhanced, but device complexity increases due to additional mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element provides a force that is sufficient to ensure reliable engagement of the coupling devices, using a simple elastic mechanism rather than complex locking or fastening systems. The spring applies continuous pressure to maintain the engaged state, providing more than enough force for secure coupling without requiring additional mechanical complexity.
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 fully automated coupling and decoupling of irrigation devices to water supplies, reducing the risk of water spillage and eliminating the need for user intervention, while maintaining compatibility with various irrigation systems and water supply configurations.
Implementation Method 1
The engagement claw (118) is provided with a spring element (116) arranged for acting on the engagement claw (118) in a disengaging direction
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for automated coupling a device (2), in particular an irrigation robot (300), to a water supply (3) and decoupling the device (2) from the water supply (3), wherein the device (2) is provided with a first coupling device (100) having a central duct (105, 205) and the water supply (3) is provided with a second coupling device (200) having a central duct (105, 205) and a valve (240) for opening and closing the central duct (205). The invention relates further to the device (2) and a system (1) comprising the device (2) and the water supply (3).