Integrated Pressure Regulator Filter Assembly for Irrigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pressure regulators in irrigation systems face challenges such as the need for dedicated regulators at each sprinkler, size restrictions, and inefficiencies in pressure control due to placement and calibration issues, leading to pressure surpluses and malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a pressure regulator and filter within a single conduit pipe assembly, which reduces the number of control boxes and eliminates the need for separate pressure regulators at each sprinkler, utilizing a reciprocating member and vent ports to control pressure and prevent ingress of dirt, with a compact design that maintains pressure control efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a pressure regulator is positioned within the sprinkler or stem, then pressure control accuracy is improved, but device complexity and size restrictions are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pressure regulator and filter into a single integrated assembly that is installed in the conduit rather than within each sprinkler. This merging approach reduces device complexity while maintaining pressure control functionality across multiple sprinklers served by the same conduit.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated pressure regulator assembly serves multiple sprinklers simultaneously through a single installation point in the conduit. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for dedicated pressure regulators at each sprinkler, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adequate pressure control.
2Device complexity
If a pressure regulator is positioned upstream in the conduit, then device complexity is reduced, but pressure control accuracy is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the pressure regulator with a filter assembly and positions this combined unit in the conduit upstream of multiple sprinklers. This integration allows the system to benefit from reduced device complexity while the filter component helps maintain flow characteristics that support pressure control.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated assembly acts as an intermediary component in the conduit that provides both filtration and pressure regulation functions. By positioning this intermediary assembly in the conduit rather than at each sprinkler, the system achieves simpler device architecture while the assembly's design maintains adequate pressure control for downstream sprinklers.
3Reliability
If multiple separate pressure regulators are installed, then pressure control reliability is improved, but device complexity and head loss are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple pressure regulation functions into a single integrated assembly installed in the conduit. This approach reduces device complexity by eliminating multiple separate regulators while the assembly's design maintains reliable pressure control for multiple downstream sprinklers through its positioning and structural configuration.
4Measurement precision
If the conduit length is increased to accommodate pressure regulator placement, then pressure control is improved, but head loss is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the irrigation system into zones served by different conduit locations with integrated pressure regulator assemblies. This segmentation allows pressure control to be implemented at strategic points in the conduit network rather than requiring excessive conduit length, thereby reducing overall head loss while maintaining effective pressure control for each zone.
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
This solution provides efficient pressure regulation across multiple sprinklers, reduces the number of control components, and prevents pressure surpluses, enhancing the overall performance and reliability of the irrigation system while minimizing head loss and stress on the system components.
Implementation Method 1
The housing body includes a plurality of vent ports in communication with the atmosphere
Implementation Method 2
A filter assembly is integrated with the pressure regulator
Data Source
AI summary
A pressure regulating apparatus is disclosed for use in an irrigation network. A pressure regulator may be combined with a filter unit in a single pipe to reduce components and joints in the irrigation network. A pipe may be provided having openings in its sides for receiving and securing a portion of the pressure regulator. The openings may be reference ports for a pressure sink, and the ports may include a porous filter material for preventing ingress of particulate matter while permitting gas to pass therethrough. The pressure regulator has a reciprocating valve member which may be sealed within a housing of the pressure regulator or with an inner surface of the pipe. The incoming water is first filtered and then it goes to the pressure regulator. The pressure regulator may be assembled as sequentially installed components.