Convertible Irrigation Rotor Indicator for Non-Potable Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Irrigation devices installed underground pose challenges for conversion from potable to non-potable versions, requiring labor-intensive replacement and creating inventory issues for manufacturers, as existing solutions do not allow for easy conversion without removing the entire device.
Innovation Solution
A rotor irrigation device with a convertible indicator that can be switched between potable and non-potable modes by altering a removable section of the rotor cover, allowing a single SKU to be produced and easily converted in the field, using a combination of a cylindrical housing, riser assembly, and a tear-away arrow-shaped section to expose non-potable indicia.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standard irrigation device is converted to non-potable version by complete removal and replacement, then the device can be properly labeled and color-coded, but the conversion process becomes labor-intensive and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The irrigation device is divided into a main body and a separate indicator assembly that can be independently replaced. The indicator assembly includes a cover with a tear-away section that reveals underlying indicia, allowing conversion without replacing the entire device. This segmentation enables proper labeling while reducing conversion labor.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator assembly is pre-configured with both potable and non-potable indicia during manufacturing. The tear-away section is designed to be removed to expose the non-potable labeling, preparing the device for conversion before installation. This preliminary preparation simplifies field conversion.
2Reliability
If manufacturers produce separate potable and non-potable versions of irrigation devices, then proper labeling can be ensured, but inventory management becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
A single irrigation device design serves both potable and non-potable applications through a universal indicator assembly that can be configured for different uses. The indicator assembly includes a cover with a tear-away section that can reveal either potable or non-potable indicia, eliminating the need for separate device versions and simplifying inventory management.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicia (labeling) is localized to a separate indicator assembly rather than being integrated into the entire device. This allows the same physical device to serve multiple purposes while having different local indicators, enabling accurate labeling without creating separate product lines.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If irrigation devices are installed underground, then they can be hidden from view and protect water sources, but conversion becomes more difficult and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into an accessible indicator assembly and the underground main body. The indicator assembly can be accessed and replaced through the ground surface without disturbing the installed main body, enabling conversion while maintaining underground installation protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator assembly acts as an intermediary between the underground device and the user. It can be accessed, replaced, or configured above ground level, serving as a mediator that enables conversion without requiring excavation or disturbance of the installed device.
Data Source
AI summary
An irrigation device is provided with an indicator that may be converted to indicate a condition, such as use with non-potable fluid. The irrigation device includes an inlet, and outlet, and a body defining a flow path from the inlet to the outlet. It further includes a cover with a removable section, and an indicator at least partially under the removable cover. The indicia indicate a condition of the irrigation device, such as being used with non-potable fluid. In one state, the cover is intact and the indicia are not exposed. In another state, the removable section has been removed and the indicia are at least partially exposed.