Modular Sprinkler With Pop-Up Deflector and Brake Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Industrial sprinklers with exposed nozzles are prone to clogging due to debris collection, affecting sprinkler patterns and requiring time-consuming maintenance, and spinning deflector plates can jam or slow down.
Innovation Solution
A modular sprinkler assembly with a pop-up deflector that includes a brake module and nozzle module, allowing for selective configuration as a rotator or spinner, featuring a displaceable deflector plate with a torque shaft engaged with a rotatable connector for controlled operation and easy maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the nozzle is exposed for operation, then water flow is enabled, but debris collects in or around the nozzle causing clogging
Solution Approach 1:
The deflector plate is positioned to cover the nozzle in the retracted position before operation begins, preventing debris from collecting in or around the nozzle. This preliminary protective action eliminates clogging risks while allowing full water flow when the plate is extended during operation.
2Productivity
If the deflector plate is exposed for operation, then water distribution is enabled, but debris collects around the deflector plate causing it to slow or jam
Solution Approach 1:
The deflector plate is held in a retracted position by a spring mechanism before operation, preventing debris accumulation. When water flow begins, the plate extends to its operational position, and the spring maintains it there, ensuring both protected operation and reliable debris-free function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the sprinkler assembly is made modular with interchangeable components, then configurability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sprinkler assembly is divided into modular components including interchangeable nozzle modules, brake modules, and deflector plates that can be independently selected and assembled. This segmentation enables customizable sprinkler patterns and characteristics while maintaining relatively simple individual component designs that ease manufacturing and assembly.
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 modular design allows for customizable sprinkler patterns, reduced clogging risks, and easier maintenance by protecting the nozzle during non-use and enabling adjustable braking characteristics, enhancing operational efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
the sprinkler may be provided with a spring acting between the rotatable connector and the deflector plate that biases the deflector plate toward the retracted position
Implementation Method 2
The torque shaft is shaped corresponding to the cross-sectional shape to engage the channel and to transfer torque between the deflector plate and the rotatable connector
Implementation Method 3
A brake module is secured to a sprinkler body and includes a rotatable connector coupled with the brake assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A sprinkler includes a pop-up deflector plate that is engageable with a brake assembly in an extended position. A brake module is secured to a sprinkler body and includes a rotatable connector coupled with the brake assembly. The pop-up deflector plate is disposed adjacent the nozzle and engages the rotatable connector in the extended position.