Liquid Diffuser Stem Coupling for Irrigation Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid diffuser devices in irrigation systems face issues with uneven jet deflection due to deformation under operating pressures, leading to efficiency losses and susceptibility to foreign matter ingress, causing operational irregularities and potential blockages.
Innovation Solution
A liquid diffuser device with a stem secured by an intermediate contact member and a ball-bearing system that maintains constant contact surfaces, preventing downward shift and minimizing friction, while axial holding means prevent misalignment and foreign matter ingress.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spherical element is used to couple the stem to the frame, then the stem can rotate and oscillate, but the spherical element deforms under operating pressure causing downward shift of the deflector body
Solution Approach 1:
A ball bearing is introduced as an intermediary element between the stem and frame. The ball bearing has a polished spherical contact surface that rolls on a corresponding polished surface on the frame, mediating the rotational and oscillating motions while preventing direct deformation contact between the stem and frame structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The direct mechanical contact between the spherical element and frame is replaced with a ball bearing system. The ball bearing substitutes the deforming spherical element with a standardized bearing component that maintains dimensional stability under operating pressures while still allowing the required rotational and oscillating motions.
2Device complexity
If the stem and frame are directly coupled with contact surfaces, then the structure is simple, but the contact surfaces deform under jet pressure causing efficiency loss
Solution Approach 1:
Ball bearings serve as intermediary elements between the stem and frame contact surfaces. These bearings have hardened, precision-machined contact surfaces that prevent deformation under jet pressure, thereby maintaining deflection efficiency while still allowing the necessary rotational and oscillating motions.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact surfaces are modified by changing their physical parameters - they are polished to high smoothness and made from wear-resistant materials. This parameter change reduces friction and prevents deformation under operating pressures, maintaining efficient jet deflection over time.
3Ease of operation
If the roller cage is used to lock the spherical element, then the stem oscillations are allowed, but the cage is susceptible to foreign matter buildup causing blockage
Solution Approach 1:
The roller cage structure is completely removed from the design. Instead of enclosing the ball bearing in a cage that is susceptible to foreign matter buildup, the ball bearing operates exposed or with minimal shielding, eliminating the cage structure that caused the foreign matter accumulation and blockage problems.
4Device complexity
If the contact surfaces are allowed to wear, then the device structure is simple, but the downward shift occurs after continuous use
Solution Approach 1:
The direct sliding contact between stem and frame surfaces is replaced with a ball bearing system. The ball bearing substitutes the wear-prone contact surfaces with hardened bearing surfaces designed to resist wear, thereby extending the operational lifetime without adding significant structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact surfaces are transformed by changing their material properties and surface characteristics - they are polished to high smoothness and made from wear-resistant materials. This parameter change dramatically reduces wear rates, maintaining proper alignment and operational efficiency throughout the device's service life.
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
Ensures optimal jet deflection and device operation over long use, maintaining efficiency and protecting against contaminants, thus enhancing reliability in dusty environments.
Implementation Method 1
The movable coupling means comprise a plurality of ball bearing elements arranged between the contact surfaces of the stem and bottom wall
Implementation Method 2
the action of a liquid jet delivered through the passageway on the deflecting plate causes a precession motion of the second axis about the longitudinal axis
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 2~3
AI summary
A liquid diffuser device, comprising a support frame (2) with an upper passageway (3) to direct a liquid jet and a lower hollow tubular body (4) with a bottom wall (5), a liquid jet deflecting member (9) having an upper plate (10) fixed to a lower stem (11) which is held within the tubular body (4), means (13) for movably coupling the stem (11) to the bottom wall (5), comprising at least one lower contact surface (14) of the stem (11) and at least one upper contact surface (15) of the bottom wall (5). The movable coupling means (13) comprise an intermediate contact member (16) secured to the lower end portion (12) of the stem (11), and continuously contacting the upper surface (15) of the bottom wall (5) to avoid downward shifting of the stem (11) consequent to wear of the contact surfaces (14, 15).