Irrigation Line Couplings With Lockable Release and Fluid-Tight Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current irrigation line couplings and manifolds face challenges in usability, functionality, and manufacturability, particularly in efficiently delivering water to multiple locations without the use of adhesives or unique conduit structures, and in allowing easy insertion and removal of conduits.
Innovation Solution
The development of a drip manifold system with lockable release mechanisms and seals that enable secure engagement and easy release of drip and main line couplings, allowing for customizable irrigation systems through expansion units and adapters, without the need for adhesives or unique conduit features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional irrigation line couplings are used, then assembly is permanent and requires adhesives, but this reduces ease of operation and customization capability
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a static permanent connection to a dynamic reversible connection. The release mechanism allows the coupling to switch between locked and unlocked states, enabling easy assembly and disassembly without adhesives while maintaining connection stability during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system is divided into separate functional components: the coupling body, the release mechanism, and the conduit connection elements. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component and enables the release mechanism to be activated without affecting the overall coupling structure.
2Ease of operation
If lockable release mechanisms are added to enable easy removal, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism is designed to be activated by the user through simple manual operation. The coupling body itself provides the release functionality through integrated features that allow the user to release the conduit without requiring external tools or complex activation procedures.
3Strength
If adhesives are used for permanent bonding, then connection strength improves, but ease of repair and customization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The chemical bonding method (adhesives) is replaced with a mechanical locking system. The coupling uses mechanical features such as lips, grooves, and release mechanisms to achieve both strong connection and easy release, eliminating the need for adhesives and enabling straightforward conduit replacement and system customization.
4Reliability
If unique conduit structures are required for coupling, then connection reliability improves, but adaptability and versatility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed with universal features that can accommodate different conduit types and configurations. The standardized coupling body and release mechanism work with various conduit diameters and materials, enabling system expansion and customization without requiring unique conduit structures for each application.
Data Source
AI summary
Irrigation line couplings are disclosed. The irrigation line couplings may each include a lockable release mechanism that may be positioned in a locked position or a released position. The irrigation line couplings may be incorporated into an irrigation manifold or other type of irrigation component, such as fittings (tees, elbows, etc.), valves, filters, pressure regulators, emitters, and adapters.