Articulating Multi-Axis Spray Nozzle With Independent Pitch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spray systems for cleaning enclosed volumes face challenges in efficiently controlling nozzle pitch and heading independently, limiting their suitability for smaller volumes and certain applications.
Innovation Solution
A multi-axis articulating and rotary spray system with a first drive for rotating a mast for different headings and a second drive for rotating a nozzle for different pitches, utilizing interacting gears to synchronize the nozzle pitch relative to the mast heading, allowing independent control of both.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single rotating nozzle system is used, then the structure is simple, but the nozzle pitch and heading cannot be controlled independently
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two independent drive mechanisms: a first drive for mast rotation (heading control) and a second drive for nozzle rotation (pitch control). This segmentation allows independent control of each degree of freedom while maintaining overall system simplicity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic synchronization where the second drive (nozzle pitch control) can operate independently or in coordination with the first drive (mast heading control). The control rod mechanism dynamically adjusts the nozzle pitch angle relative to the mast heading, enabling flexible operational modes including independent control, synchronized rotation, and variable pitch angle maintenance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system is designed for larger volumes, then the cleaning coverage is sufficient, but it cannot efficiently clean smaller volumes and complex geometries
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating nozzle mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of the spray direction and angle to adapt to different volume sizes and geometries. The nozzle can be tilted at various pitch angles and rotated to different heading positions, allowing the same system to efficiently clean both large and small enclosed volumes by optimizing spray coverage for each specific application geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters including nozzle pitch angle, mast heading angle, and spray direction to optimize cleaning performance for different volume sizes. By varying these geometric parameters, the system maintains high productivity across diverse applications from small tanks to large vessels.
3Ease of operation
If the nozzle pitch is coupled with mast rotation, then the structure is simpler, but the pitch angle cannot be maintained or changed independently
Solution Approach 1:
A control rod acts as an intermediary mechanism between the two drive systems. The control rod receives rotational input from the second drive (nozzle pitch control) and transmits it to the nozzle assembly, while also interacting with the first drive (mast heading control) through the synchronized rotation mechanism. This intermediary component enables independent pitch control while maintaining structural efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical coupling mechanisms with a more efficient gear-based synchronization system. The interacting gears coordinate the rotation of the control rod with the mast rotation, allowing independent electronic control of pitch and heading while using mechanical advantage to maintain synchronization and reduce overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a system and method articulating and rotary spray system for fluids that includes a first drive for rotating a mast for different headings and a second drive for rotating a nozzle for different pitches at any time with or without rotation of the mast. The method and system uses a system of interacting gears that rotate a control rod in variable synchronization to control the nozzle pitch relative to the mast heading while the control rod orbits about a center of rotation of the rotating mast along a longitudinal axis.