Adjustable Arc Irrigation Nozzle With Indexed Deflector Ribs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional irrigation sprinkler devices often result in non-uniform water distribution, leading to overwatering in some areas and underwatering in others, as measured by low Distribution Uniformity (DU) and Scheduling Coefficient (SC) values, which complicates efficient irrigation scheduling.
Innovation Solution
The development of spray nozzles with adjustable arcuate discharge openings and deflectors featuring depending ribs with micro-structures that redirect water into different sprays with distinct characteristics, improving DUlq and SC values by segregating water flow into tailored sprays for more efficient irrigation patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional spray nozzle irrigation devices are used, then they are simple in structure and easy to manufacture, but they produce non-uniform water distribution with low DUlq values
Solution Approach 1:
The deflector is segmented into multiple ribs that divide the water flow into separate channels, creating distinct spray patterns. This segmentation allows precise control over water distribution uniformity while maintaining a relatively simple overall nozzle structure
Solution Approach 2:
Micro-structures (micro-ramps, steps, protrusions) are added locally to specific ribs and deflector surfaces to control water flow characteristics in targeted areas. This localized modification improves distribution uniformity without requiring complete redesign of the entire nozzle
2Ease of operation
If conventional fixed spray devices are used, then they have simple operation, but they result in overwatering in some areas and underwatering in others
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle incorporates adjustable features that allow the spray pattern and arc to be modified according to specific irrigation needs. This dynamic adjustability enables precise matching of water application to crop requirements while keeping operation straightforward
Solution Approach 2:
The deflector design with multiple ribs and micro-structures automatically segments and distributes water uniformly across the spray pattern without requiring complex external control systems or sophisticated operation procedures
3Adaptability or versatility
If rotors with variable arc are used, then they can adjust spray coverage, but they have complex adjustment mechanisms that may not provide precise positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The indexing mechanism provides tactile and audible feedback when the collar reaches preset arcuate positions, ensuring precise positioning. This feedback system allows operators to accurately set spray coverage without complex adjustment procedures
Solution Approach 2:
Preset arcuate positions are pre-determined and mechanically indexed into the collar, allowing quick and accurate selection of standard spray patterns without requiring complex real-time adjustments
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 solution achieves higher DUlq and lower SC values, ensuring more uniform water distribution and reducing the need for excessive water application, thereby optimizing irrigation efficiency and minimizing overwatering.
Implementation Method 1
The deflector is configured with depending ribs having micro-structures that cooperate with other geometry of the rib and deflector to define a plurality of different micro-ramps for dividing the discharged water into different sprays having different characteristics
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable arc spray nozzle for an irrigation sprinkler is provided, where positive indexing is provided at a plurality of present locations between relatively rotatable components of the nozzle for defining predetermined arcuate extents of the spray pattern.