Low-flow emitter with spiral passage for precise flow control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing low-flow emitters face challenges in precisely controlling water flow rates due to difficulties in accurately positioning the emitter sleeve, which hinders efficient water conservation in micro-irrigation systems.
Innovation Solution
A low-flow emitter design featuring a first and second housing with tapered thread portions and a spiral passage that allows for precise adjustment of water flow by rotating the housings, enabling steady water dispensing and easy manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the position of the emitter sleeve is adjusted to control flow rate, then the flow rate can be controlled, but the position control precision is difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the control parameter from linear position adjustment to rotational angle adjustment. By rotating the first housing relative to the second housing, the overlapping area between the emitter sleeve and drip hole changes in a controlled manner. The thread structure converts rotational motion into precise linear displacement, enabling accurate flow rate control through angle-based adjustment rather than difficult linear position control.
2Loss of substance
If the opening size is reduced to conserve water, then water flow rate decreases, but precise control of the opening size is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic adjustment mechanism where the opening size (overlapping area) can be continuously varied by rotating the housing. The thread structure provides a dynamic control system that converts rotational input into precise linear displacement of the emitter sleeve, enabling continuous and precise control of the opening size to optimize water conservation while maintaining desired flow rates.
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 design provides precise control over water flow rates, enhancing water conservation by allowing for adjustable dimensions of the spiral passage, ensuring consistent and efficient water distribution.
Implementation Method 1
The spiral passage of the low-flow emitter will restrain the water flow from the second passage to the first passage, in order to hold the water pressure and realize steady water dispensing
Implementation Method 2
the first and second thread portions are defined a diameter being tapered off, and dimensions of the spiral passage could be adjusted by operating a relative rotation between the first and second housings
Data Source
AI summary
A low-flow emitter includes a first housing and a second housing. The first housing includes a first thread portion, and a first passage defined in the first thread portion. The second housing includes a second thread portion, and a second passage defined in the second thread portion corresponding with the first thread portion in a thread connection. Part of the thread connection between the first and second housings is a loose fitting thread connection. A spiral passage is formed along the loose fitting thread connection between the first and second housings. Water flow rate is able to be controlled by a rotation of the first housing with respect to the second housing.