Fluid Block with Integrated Channels for Agricultural Sprayer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural field sprayers have a complex and space-intensive design due to numerous individual fluid components and lines, requiring significant space and manual adjustments.
Innovation Solution
Combining fluid components into functional units within a fluid block with integrated channel systems, reducing the number of individual components and lines, and using interfaces for simplified connections, which can be produced using metallic or plastic materials, including 3D printing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple individual fluid components and fluid lines are used to control spray agent circuits, then the functionality and control precision are improved, but the device complexity and space requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fluid components (valves, flow meters, connections) are merged into a single integrated fluid block with internal channel system. This combining approach maintains all necessary control functions while reducing the total number of separate components from dozens to just one modular unit, directly resolving the contradiction between control precision and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid block serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a distribution manifold, houses control valves, integrates flow measurement, and provides mounting interfaces. This multi-functionality allows the single component to replace numerous individual parts, achieving both high adaptability and reduced complexity
2Ease of operation
If numerous individual fluid lines are laid out to connect fluid components, then the fluid distribution network is established, but the space consumption and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple external fluid lines are merged into internal channels within the fluid block. The integrated channel system replaces numerous separate hoses and pipes, reducing space consumption while maintaining complete fluid distribution capability to all spray outlets
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid distribution network transitions from a three-dimensional arrangement of separate lines occupying significant space to a compact internal channel structure within the fluid block. This dimensional consolidation integrates fluid pathways into the body of the component itself, dramatically reducing the area required
3Device complexity
If manual adjustments are required for switching valves and metering valves, then the system remains simple in design, but the operation time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Manual mechanical valve adjustments are replaced with electronic control systems. The fluid block integrates electronic control valves and flow meters that can be adjusted and monitored electronically, replacing manual mechanical operations with automated electronic systems for faster, more precise control
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-regulating features through integrated flow meters and electronic controls that automatically monitor and adjust fluid distribution. This self-service capability reduces the need for manual intervention while maintaining simple overall system design
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
The compact design saves space and weight while maintaining functionality, allowing for easy and reliable fluid connections and electrical control of fluid components for faster activation and reaction times.
Implementation Method 1
A venturi device is located in a fluid line that leads directly to the liquid tank and is designed as a suction line. In this way, liquid is sucked out of the induction bowl via the suction line and transferred to the liquid tank.
Data Source
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AI summary
An agricultural field sprayer with a spraying agent circuit is presented, wherein various fluid components are coupled to one another in a flow-conducting manner via existing fluid lines. According to the invention, it is proposed that the field sprayer has at least one fluid block in which a channel system is integrated, which has at least two interfaces on at least one of its outer surfaces for connecting at least one fluid component each.