Needled Irrigation Mat for Stable Fluid Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irrigation mats with seam-like connections are difficult to handle and lay, leading to water loss and uneven distribution due to slipping of layers and root penetration into outlet openings, which impairs fluid distribution.
Innovation Solution
The use of a needled connection between the upper and lower textile layers of the irrigation mat, forming a uniform and stable textile fabric, combined with hydrophilic materials and absorber powders, and pipes with drip emitters and metallic components to prevent root penetration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If seam-like connections are used to connect the upper and lower layers of the irrigation mat, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the handling and laying becomes significantly more complex and the connection stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the upper and lower layers by integrating pockets directly into the lower layer structure, eliminating the need for separate connection operations. The pockets are formed as integral parts of the lower layer, allowing the upper layer to be simply placed and secured within these pre-formed structures, thereby simplifying both manufacturing and operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The lower layer is prepared in advance with pre-formed pockets that are dimensioned to accommodate the irrigation pipes and secure the upper layer. This preliminary structuring eliminates the need for complex connection operations during assembly, as the connection interfaces are already prepared in the correct positions and configurations.
2Ease of manufacture
If seam-like connections are used between the upper and lower layers, then the manufacturing process is simpler, but the connection stability deteriorates due to slipping of layers and tearing of sewing threads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the upper and lower layers into a unified stable structure by integrating the pocket system into the lower layer. The upper layer is secured within these pockets, creating a mechanically interlocked assembly that prevents relative movement and maintains connection stability without relying on vulnerable seam-like connections.
3Ease of operation
If the irrigation pipes are placed in preformed pockets, then the pipe positioning is easier, but the root penetration problem worsens as roots extend through the pockets to the outlet openings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the irrigation pipes from direct exposure to the root zone by enclosing them within the pocket structures. The pockets act as protective barriers that prevent root systems from directly accessing the pipe outlet openings, thereby eliminating the root penetration problem while maintaining easy pipe positioning.
4Reliability
If the layers are connected over the whole area, then the connection stability and fluid distribution improve, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection area into discrete pocket regions rather than requiring continuous full-area connection. The pockets are distributed at specific locations where connection is needed, providing sufficient stability and fluid distribution while minimizing manufacturing complexity by avoiding the need for comprehensive area coverage.
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
This solution enhances fluid absorption and distribution, ensures even water distribution, and prevents root penetration into outlet openings, making the irrigation system more stable and efficient.
Implementation Method 1
The irrigation mat consists of an upper layer of capillary material and a lower layer of capillary material
Implementation Method 2
Both the upper layer and the lower layer can consist of a hydrophilic or hydrophilized material
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A description is given of a watering mat (10) for supplying fluids for the root region of plants, having at least one lower layer (12) and an upper layer (14), each made from a sheet-like textile structure. At least one tunnel (16) for accommodating at least one pipe (40), which has exit openings (42) for the fluid, is formed between the lower layer (12) and the upper layer (14). The lower layer (12) and the upper layer (14) are connected to one another in a sheet-like manner at least in a region (22a, b, c) outside the tunnel (16). A description is also given of a watering system (1) having such a watering mat (10) and pipes (40).