Multi-nozzle sprinkler shuttle for rapid nozzle switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rotary sprinkler heads require time-consuming disassembly and shut-off processes for nozzle changes, especially in large irrigation systems, due to the lack of simple and reliable nozzle-change and shut-off features.
Innovation Solution
A manually-operated or power-actuated multi-nozzle shuttle system that allows for quick and easy nozzle changes and shut-offs, with a pivotable design enabling movement between nozzle-installed positions and a shut-off position, along with visible indicators for flow rates, facilitating efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional rotary sprinkler heads with fixed nozzles are used, then the sprinkler head structure is simple, but the time required for nozzle changes and shut-offs is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The sprinkler head is segmented into a stationary body and a movable shuttle assembly. The shuttle carries multiple nozzles and can be independently positioned relative to the body, allowing rapid switching between nozzles without disassembling the entire sprinkler head. This segmentation enables quick nozzle changes while maintaining overall structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a dynamic shuttle mechanism that can move between different positions to align different nozzles with the water supply. The shuttle is capable of rapid positional changes, enabling quick nozzle switching and shut-off operations without requiring full disassembly or complex manual intervention.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple nozzles are integrated into a single sprinkler head, then the adaptability to varying irrigation needs is improved, but the complexity of the sprinkler head structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable shuttle is designed to carry multiple nozzles of different sizes and configurations on a single assembly. By positioning the shuttle to align different nozzles with the water supply, a single sprinkler head can perform multiple irrigation functions, replacing the need for multiple separate sprinkler heads and enabling rapid adaptation to varying irrigation requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-nozzle capability is achieved through segmentation of the nozzle array onto a separate movable shuttle rather than integrating all nozzles into a fixed complex structure. This allows the nozzles to be organized in a systematic manner on the shuttle, simplifying the overall design while maintaining versatility.
3Productivity
If manual disassembly is required for nozzle changes, then the manufacturing and operation cost is low, but the productivity of irrigation system maintenance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic shuttle mechanism allows nozzles to be switched by simply moving the shuttle to different positions rather than requiring manual disassembly and reassembly. This dynamic positioning system dramatically improves maintenance productivity while keeping the operation simple - the user only needs to actuate the shuttle mechanism to align the desired nozzle with the water supply.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple nozzles are pre-positioned on the shuttle in specific locations. Before operation, the correct nozzle is already in position on the shuttle, ready for rapid deployment. This preliminary arrangement eliminates the need for complex assembly operations during maintenance, significantly improving productivity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A sprinkler (10) head includes a sprinkler body (12) having an inlet bore (26) at one end, and a coupling element (38) at an opposite end adapted to connect the sprinkler body (12) to a water deflector plate . A multi-nozzle shuttle (14) supports at least two nozzles (16, 18) and is attached to the sprinkler body (12) axially between the inlet bore (26) and the coupling element for swinging pivotal movement between two nozzle-installed positions. The multi-nozzle shuttle (14) may also be provided with a shut-off surface portion (161) for shutting off flow through the sprinkler body (12) when the multi-nozzle shuttle (14) is moved to a shut-off position. The shuttle (14) may be moved manually or by a power actuator (182).