Dual Shutoff Nozzle Pattern Sleeve Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current single shutoff combination nozzles require users to position a bale handle in an intermediate position to achieve a fog pattern flow, which can be inconvenient and inefficient, especially for firefighters who need quick and precise control between fog and straight stream patterns.
Innovation Solution
A nozzle design that allows switching between fog pattern and straight stream outputs using a single motion, utilizing a pattern sleeve to control the flow between the two outlets, enabling users to rotate the sleeve to switch between the patterns without needing to adjust the bale handle, thereby simplifying the operation and maintaining consistent pressure and flow rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single shutoff combination nozzle uses a bale handle in an intermediate position to redirect flow to fog pattern, then fog pattern flow can be achieved, but the operation becomes inconvenient and inefficient requiring precise intermediate positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is divided into two independent flow control systems: a first flow control valve (bale handle) for main flow shutoff and a second flow control valve for pattern selection. This segmentation allows each valve to perform a specific function independently, eliminating the need for intermediate positioning of the bale handle while maintaining full control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
A second flow control valve is introduced as an intermediary component between the first flow control valve and the flow passages. This intermediary valve handles the pattern selection function, allowing the first valve to maintain simple full-open/full-closed positions while the second valve manages the complexity of flow distribution between straight and fog patterns.
2Device complexity
If a single flow control valve is used for both shutoff and pattern selection, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to maintain consistent pressure and flow rates during pattern switching is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control function is segmented into two independent valves: the first flow control valve maintains overall flow rate and pressure by controlling the main water supply, while the second flow control valve handles pattern selection without affecting the main flow parameters. This segmentation ensures that pattern switching does not compromise pressure and flow rate consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle system dynamically adapts to different flow patterns while maintaining consistent performance characteristics. The first flow control valve dynamically adjusts the main flow supply based on operating conditions, while the second valve dynamically switches between patterns, ensuring that the combination of both valves maintains matched pressure and flow rates regardless of the selected pattern.
3Adaptability or versatility
If intermediate positioning of the bale handle is required for fog pattern, then flow control between straight and fog patterns is possible, but response time and operational efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control system is segmented into two independent functions: the bale handle (first flow control valve) provides binary open/closed control for main flow shutoff, while the new second flow control valve provides binary control for pattern selection. This segmentation eliminates the need for intermediate positioning, allowing firefighters to quickly switch between straight and fog patterns using simple on/off actions on the second valve, thereby improving operational efficiency while maintaining full adaptability.
4Device complexity
If a single bale handle controls both flow shutoff and pattern selection, then the number of control components is reduced, but the precision and speed of pattern switching are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two specialized valves: the first flow control valve (bale handle) dedicated to flow shutoff and the second flow control valve dedicated to pattern selection. This segmentation allows each valve to be optimized for its specific function, enabling rapid pattern switching through the second valve without the mechanical complexity and intermediate positioning requirements of a single multi-functional bale handle, thereby improving switching speed while maintaining reasonable component count.
Data Source
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AI summary
One or more techniques and/or systems are disclosed for a dual shutoff nozzle that can mitigate a user positioning a bale handle of the nozzle in an intermediate position to achieve fog flow through the nozzle. A nozzle may be devised that allows the bale to be disposed in a fully closed position, and/or disposed in a fully open position, and to switch between a fog spray and a straight tip flow. The nozzle may comprise a first flow control element, and a shutoff component that controls the first control element. The nozzle can comprise a second flow control element that controls flow between a straight nozzle outlet and a fog pattern outlet; and the second flow control element can be controlled by a pattern sleeve using a rotation motion.