Modular Oscillating Range Adjusting Module for Tool-less Sprinkler Assembly

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional sprinkler designs with oscillation range limiting modules require riveting for assembly, making them unsuitable for modular assembly lines and necessitating the use of tools.

Innovation Solution

A modular oscillating range adjusting module comprising a first and second adjusting unit with snapping members and an O-ring, allowing tool-less assembly between the water-in control module and oscillation driving module, utilizing a first circular plate with a hollow connecting cylinder and second circular plate with an assembly hole for connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If riveting is used to assemble the oscillation range limiting module with the inlet tube, then the connection strength is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to requiring tools and complex assembly processes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidease of assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The oscillation range limiting module is divided into separate components (limit switches with arcuate paths) that can be independently assembled to the inlet tube through simple snap-fit connections, eliminating the need for riveting while maintaining connection strength

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The inlet tube serves as an intermediary component that integrates the limit switches directly into its structure, allowing the limit switches to be positioned and connected without requiring separate riveting operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If riveting is used to connect the oscillation range limiting module and inlet tube, then the structural stability is improved, but the productivity deteriorates due to tool requirements and assembly time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidassembly speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The module is segmented into discrete components that can be quickly assembled through simple geometric interlocking features on the inlet tube, enabling rapid assembly without tools while maintaining structural stability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The inlet tube incorporates self-aligning geometric features that guide the limit switches into their correct positions during assembly, enabling the components to self-assemble without requiring precision alignment tools or complex assembly procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11673154B2Oscillating range adjusting module for use in sprinkler
Publication Date: 2023.06.13 YUAN MEI CORP
  • US11673154B2 patent drawing
  • US11673154B2 patent drawing
  • US11673154B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An oscillating range adjusting module with modular design for being mounted into a sprinkler is revealed. The oscillating range adjusting module which includes a first adjusting unit and a second adjusting unit is located between a water-in control module and an oscillation driving module. During assembly, the first adjusting unit is fitted on an inlet tube of a water-in control module. After an O-ring being connected to the first adjusting unit, the second adjusting unit is mounted on the inlet tube and connected to the first adjusting unit by at least one fastener of the second adjusting unit engaged with at least one connection surface of the first adjusting unit. Lastly a water inlet of the oscillation driving module is connected to the second adjusting unit. Thereby, a modular assembly of the oscillating range adjusting module between the oscillation driving module and the water-in control module is achieved.