Micro-irrigation Stake with Splash Plate for Precision Water Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing micro-irrigation systems using micro-spray jets face challenges in delivering extremely low volume water sprays (less than 4 gallons per hour) to specific locations with precision and consistency, particularly for potted plants, as previous designs were limited in adaptability and control.
Innovation Solution
A micro-irrigation system comprising a stake body with a micro-spray jet and a splash plate that creates a controlled spray pattern, utilizing flexible tubing and a flow restriction device to achieve precise and adjustable water delivery, allowing for low volume distribution of approximately 0.4 to 3.0 gallons per hour per pot, with the ability to maintain consistency in windy conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If micro-spray jets are used to deliver extremely low volume water sprays (less than 4 gallons per hour), then water delivery precision is improved, but spray consistency and control deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides water delivery into multiple discrete spray zones using individual micro-spray jets positioned at specific locations (e.g., corners of planters). Each jet operates independently with controlled flow rates, enabling precise delivery to specific locations while maintaining overall system reliability through redundancy and modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs adjustable flow rates and spray patterns by changing operational parameters such as water pressure, jet orientation, and spray angle. This allows optimization of both precision and consistency by tuning parameters like flow rate (0.4 to 3.0 gallons per hour per pot) and spray distribution patterns to match specific application requirements.
2Quantity of substance
If micro-spray jets deliver extremely low volume water sprays, then water volume control is improved, but adaptability to different planters and conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The micro-spray jet system is designed with universal applicability to various planter configurations (rectangular, circular, hanging baskets, ground beds). The system can be adapted to different sizes and shapes by adjusting the number and positioning of jets, while maintaining precise water volume control through standardized jet components and adjustable flow rates.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable components that allow dynamic adaptation to different planter configurations. Jets can be positioned, oriented, and adjusted to accommodate various planter sizes, shapes, and plant arrangements, enabling the same system to deliver precise water volumes across diverse applications.
3Measurement precision
If micro-spray jets are used for precise water delivery, then water distribution accuracy is improved, but system complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The micro-spray jet system incorporates self-regulating features that reduce operational complexity. The jets automatically maintain consistent spray patterns and flow rates through inherent pressure compensation and self-cleaning designs, minimizing the need for complex control systems, manual adjustments, or maintenance interventions while preserving water distribution accuracy.
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 system achieves accurate and controlled low-volume water supply to each pot, preventing soil digging and ensuring effective water distribution, with adjustable flow options and reliability in varying weather conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a micro-spray jet opens and closes to spray water to the plant
Implementation Method 2
a flow restriction device to restrict water flow into the tubing sections
Data Source
AI summary
A micro-irrigation system includes at least one stake, tubing section, and micro-spray jet. The stake has a lower end configured for retention at a junction of four corners of adjacent planting pots and an upper end having a tubing retention prong and a micro-spray jet retention opening with an internal fluid passage extending therebetween. The tubing section is connected to the tubing retention prong and adapted for connection to a water supply. The micro-spray jet is connected to the retention opening, an internal fluid passage extends from the lower end to an orifice in an intermediate surface, and a splash plate is located above the jet orifice. The splash plate has a plurality of downwardly extending sides about its periphery with clearances therebetween defining a jet spray pattern. With water supplied through the tubing, at least one spray stream is directed into each of the four adjacent pots.