Modular Play Fountain With Segmented Pump Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fountain systems lack versatility and efficiency in controlling and configuring liquid jets, particularly in terms of modularity, mobility, and user interaction, limiting their adaptability and aesthetic appeal.
Innovation Solution
A modular and mobile fountain system with individually controllable pumps and nozzles, integrated sensors, and a control system that allows for dynamic liquid jet control and user interaction, enabling flexible configurations and interactive games.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single pump supplies liquid to multiple nozzles, then device complexity is reduced, but control speed and precision of individual liquid jets deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the liquid supply function by assigning individual pumps to specific nozzles or nozzle groups. Each pump is independently controllable, enabling precise and rapid control of individual liquid jets without being constrained by a centralized pump system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs variable speed pumps that can dynamically adjust their operation. During operation, pumps are driven continuously but can be energized to a greater or lesser extent to control jet height, providing both speed and adaptability in liquid jet control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the fountain system is made modular and mobile, then adaptability and versatility improve, but structural stability and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The floor is divided into modular floor modules that can be detached and reconfigured. Each module can contain nozzles and pumps, allowing the system to be assembled in different configurations (e.g., 3×3 to 20×20 grids) and easily moved between locations while maintaining functional integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system integrates multiple functions within each floor module, combining nozzles, pumps, and control systems into self-contained units. This modular integration maintains reliability by ensuring each module operates independently while contributing to the overall system functionality.
3Ease of operation
If nozzles continuously jet liquid, then ease of control improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses continuously operating pumps with variable speed control rather than repeatedly starting and stopping. The pumps can be energized to a greater or lesser extent to control jet height, providing smooth and easy control while optimizing energy consumption by avoiding the energy spikes associated with frequent startup cycles.
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
Enhances the versatility and user engagement of fountain systems by allowing customizable configurations, efficient liquid jet control, and interactive experiences, such as complex games, while reducing energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
The liquid that is collected in the reservoir can be fed back to the jets by means of a pump and a network of conduits
Implementation Method 2
The liquid thus jetted upwards will as a result of gravity of course fall down again
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an assembly, in particular a play fountain, comprising a floor (1), a plurality of nozzles (2), preferably a reservoir for a liquid, in particular water, or means to connect the assembly to a liquid supply, and a control system (3) for controlling one or more of the nozzles (2) during operation of the assembly. The floor (1) is assembled modularly.