Landscaping blower nozzle assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leaf and debris blowers face challenges in maintaining efficient airflow and nozzle durability due to rigid designs that can deform under high velocity air and contact with ground objects, and are difficult to operate over long distances without losing airflow direction.
Innovation Solution
A moveable nozzle assembly with a flexible, moldable elbow and a rigid insert that allows 90-degree bending with minimal turbulence, combined with a gear assembly for adjustable nozzle direction and a breakaway coupling to prevent damage from impact, and a tensioning system to maintain airflow direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid nozzle design is used, then structural strength is improved, but airflow turbulence increases and directional control is lost under high velocity
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is divided into two distinct segments: a rigid insert providing structural strength and a flexible moldable material providing turbulence-free airflow. This segmentation allows each material to perform its optimal function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle employs a composite structure combining rigid insert material with flexible moldable material. This composite design integrates the strength benefits of rigid materials with the airflow benefits of flexible materials, resolving the contradiction between structural integrity and airflow quality.
2Ease of manufacture
If a fixed rigid nozzle is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to varied terrain and impact resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system where the flexible portion can deform and adapt to external forces such as ground contact and impacts. This dynamic capability allows the nozzle to maintain functionality across varied terrain while the rigid insert maintains manufacturing simplicity.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid nozzle assembly is used, then structural stability is improved, but ease of operation over long distances deteriorates due to inability to maintain airflow direction
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle utilizes changes in material properties (rigidity vs. flexibility) to enable directional control. The flexible portion can be manually positioned to change airflow direction while the rigid insert maintains structural stability, allowing easy operation over long distances.
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 ensures high-velocity airflow with minimal turbulence and directional control, while preventing nozzle damage from impacts, allowing for efficient and versatile operation over varied terrain.
Implementation Method 1
A moveable nozzle assembly with a flexible, moldable elbow and a rigid insert that allows 90-degree bending with minimal turbulence
Implementation Method 2
A gear assembly for adjustable nozzle direction and a breakaway coupling to prevent damage from impact
Implementation Method 3
a tensioning system to maintain airflow direction
Implementation Method 4
a breakaway coupling to prevent damage from impact
Data Source
AI summary
A landscaping blower nozzle assembly includes an inlet section for allowing air into the assembly, an elbow section and a motor. A nozzle is insertable into the elbow section such that the motor moves the elbow section in a moveable motion back and forth though at least 180 degree of motion for aiding the operator in the movement and removal of leaves and other debris. A breakaway coupler prevents damage to the blower nozzle when coming into contact with a rigid surface or structure. A tensioner assembly prevents distortion of the nozzle tip when subjected to high velocity air from the blower motor.