Integrated Irrigation Control Zone for Compact Leak Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irrigation control zone assemblies are space-inefficient, prone to leaks, and difficult to maintain due to separate components and multiple connection points, leading to inefficiencies and increased installation costs.
Innovation Solution
A compact, integrated control zone device that combines a valve, filter, and pressure regulator into a single unit, facilitating easy installation and maintenance by allowing individual components to be removed and replaced without disturbing the others.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If separate components (valve, filter, pressure regulator) are spaced along the pipe in a valve box, then each component can be individually maintained, but the assembly takes up large space and increases the likelihood of leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the valve, filter, and pressure regulator into a single integrated control zone device with a compact internal arrangement. The components are merged into one unit that occupies minimal valve box space while maintaining individual accessibility for maintenance through a removable end cap design.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter is nested within the valve body structure, and the pressure regulator is integrated into the same housing. The components are arranged in a nested configuration where the filter screen is positioned inside the valve body and the pressure regulator is mounted within the same external housing, maximizing space efficiency.
2Ease of repair
If separate components are spaced along the pipe with multiple connection points, then each component can be individually maintained, but the likelihood of leaks increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the valve, filter, and pressure regulator into a single integrated unit with internal connections, the patent eliminates multiple external connection points that were prone to leaking. The components are internally connected within the sealed valve body, significantly reducing leak risk while maintaining ease of repair through the removable end cap.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are installed in the valve box, then zone control functionality is achieved, but installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components into a single manufactured unit, reducing installation time and labor costs. The integrated design requires fewer installation steps and less valve box preparation, directly reducing installation complexity and cost while maintaining full zone control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated control zone device performs multiple functions (flow control, filtration, pressure regulation) in a single unit, making it a universal solution that replaces multiple separate components. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of parts needed and simplifies the installation process.
4Adaptability or versatility
If separate components are used in the control zone assembly, then each component can be individually selected, but water flow efficiency decreases due to numerous passageways
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the components into a single integrated unit with optimized internal passageways, the patent reduces the total number of external connections and junction points. The internal flow paths are designed to be direct and efficient, minimizing turbulence and pressure loss, thereby improving water flow efficiency while maintaining component selection flexibility.
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 integrated design conserves space, reduces leak likelihood, enhances installation efficiency, and maintains optimal water flow and pressure, thus improving system performance and reducing maintenance complexity.
Implementation Method 1
A filter removes the sediment and debris from the water that can disrupt the flow of water through the irrigation system
Implementation Method 2
The pressure regulator regulates the pressure of water in the line so that the pressure is maintained within an appropriate range
Data Source
AI summary
Control zone devices that integrate a valve, filter, and pressure regulator within a single device are provided. Specifically, the control zone devices include a main body having a base portion with an inlet passage and an outlet passage attachable to a conduit and a body portion extending from the base portion having an interior for receiving a filter. The control zone devices further include a valve body including a solenoid bowl for attaching a solenoid and an interface cap for removably coupling the valve body to the main body of the control zone device and forming an interface between the valve body and the main body to operate the valve. The control zone devices also include a pressure regulator. In some configurations, the pressure regulator is positioned in a vent flow path of the valve body downstream of the solenoid for regulating pressure at the valve.