Irrigation Robot Water Coupling With Spill-Safe Mechanical Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated irrigation systems face challenges in fully automated coupling and decoupling from water supplies without user intervention, often requiring complex feedback systems and risking water spillage during filling procedures.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for automated coupling and decoupling of irrigation devices to a water supply using a first coupling device with a central duct and a second coupling device equipped with a valve, where the device automatically approaches, engages, opens the valve, and decouples by retracting the nipple and disengaging the engagement device, allowing for self-coupling and decoupling without electrical sensors or user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If automated coupling and decoupling systems are implemented without electrical sensors or complex feedback systems, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but automation reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is designed to perform automated coupling and decoupling operations through its own mechanical structures without requiring external control systems, sensors, or power sources. The spring-loaded sealing element and cam mechanism enable the system to self-regulate water flow and mechanical engagement during automated operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element acts as an intermediary component that mechanically links the coupling engagement state to water flow control. When the coupling pieces engage, the sealing element is automatically positioned to open or close water passages, mediating between mechanical connection and fluid flow without requiring electrical sensors or complex feedback systems.
2Productivity
If manual intervention is required for coupling and decoupling operations, then coupling reliability is improved, but productivity is reduced and ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is pre-positioned and spring-loaded within the coupling structure so that when automated coupling pieces engage, the water flow control action is automatically triggered without requiring separate manual intervention. The mechanical design ensures the sealing element moves to the correct position as part of the coupling engagement process itself.
3Productivity
If free-jet filling methods are used for water supply, then filling speed is improved, but water spillage risk increases and manufacturing precision is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element serves as a mediator that controls water flow from the supply source to the device. By positioning this sealing element through automated coupling engagement, the system enables controlled water delivery that maintains filling speed while preventing spillage, eliminating the need for open free-jet filling methods.
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
Enables fully automated coupling and decoupling of irrigation devices to a water supply, reducing the risk of water spillage and eliminating the need for user intervention, while being compatible with various irrigation devices and water supply configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded sealing element movable between a first position, in which a water supply line is in fluid communication with a water supply, and a second position, in which the water supply line is disconnected from the water supply
Data Source
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Figure 2
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for automated coupling a device (2), in particular an irrigation robot (300), to a water supply (3) and decoupling the device (2) from the water supply (3), wherein the device (2) is provided with a first coupling device (100) having a central duct (105, 205) and the water supply (3) is provided with a second coupling device (200) having a central duct (105, 205) and a valve (240) for opening and closing the central duct (205). The invention relates further to the device (2) and a system (1) comprising the device (2) and the water supply (3).