Fluid Distribution Conduit With Membrane Deflector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid distribution systems for irrigation and similar applications face challenges in balancing fluid use efficiency, system cost, complexity, operational performance, installation, and maintenance, often requiring high pressure, numerous valves, and complex control systems, which increase energy consumption and maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A fluid distribution system with an enclosed elongated conduit and a membrane that is biased to cover openings along its length, using a deflector to manipulate the membrane and uncover pathways for fluid escape, allowing for selective and controlled emission of fluid from multiple locations, reducing the need for high pressure and complex control systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple outlets are disposed along the conduit length to distribute fluid, then fluid distribution from multiple locations is achieved, but considerable pressure and energy are required to operate the system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the outlets selectively operable rather than continuously open. The membrane elements can be dynamically moved between closed and open positions, allowing fluid to be distributed from multiple locations only when needed. This dynamic control enables the system to achieve multi-location fluid distribution while consuming significantly less pressure and energy compared to systems where all outlets are continuously active.
2Ease of operation
If separately actuated valves are disposed along the conduit to individually release fluid, then precise and tailored dispersion control is achieved, but expensive valve components and sophisticated control systems are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex valve mechanism and replaces it with simple membrane elements that can be selectively actuated. Instead of using expensive valve components and sophisticated control systems, the invention uses passive membrane structures that can be opened or closed by simple actuation forces. This extraction of the complex valve function while retaining precise control capability significantly reduces device complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs flexible membrane elements to replace rigid valve components. These thin film membranes can be selectively opened and closed to control fluid dispersion at different locations along the conduit. The flexible nature of the membranes provides precise control capability while being far simpler and less expensive than traditional valve assemblies with multiple moving parts and complex control systems.
3Productivity
If high pressure is used to deliver fluid over large expanse, then fewer outlets are required, but increased energy and running costs are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling selective activation of outlets based on actual demand. Rather than maintaining high pressure to serve all outlets simultaneously, the system dynamically opens only the specific outlets needed at any given time. This dynamic selective operation allows the system to achieve effective fluid delivery coverage while operating at lower pressures, significantly reducing energy consumption and running costs.
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 system provides a flexible, efficient, and cost-effective means of fluid delivery with reduced energy consumption and lower maintenance costs, enabling controlled emission from any location along the conduit with adjustable plume characteristics, while minimizing blockages and wear.
Implementation Method 1
at least one membrane element which is biased to the conduit internal perimeter
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
Figure 7~9
AI summary
Fluid distribution system comprising conduit (1) with openings (2), membrane (3) for covering of openings, deflector (211) for manipulating membrane (3, 7), activator (210) which is movable in the conduit with propulsion and control, the activator for communicating via deflector to manipulate membrane and uncover openings for fluid to be emitted from the conduit in relative vicinity