Overflow Distributor Structure for Precise Greenhouse Block Irrigation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing block storage elements in greenhouse systems require complex components like valves and sophisticated controllers to manage liquid supply and nutrient distribution, which complicates assembly, control, and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A method and design for block storage elements that utilize an overflow distributor with a distributor limit and passageways to throttle liquid flow into a tub area, eliminating the need for valves and electronic controllers by using the overflow to manage excess liquid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If valves and electronic controllers are used to manage liquid supply, then liquid supply precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The overflow distributor is designed to automatically regulate liquid supply to the block storage element based on its own liquid level. When the liquid level rises above the distributor limit, the overflow automatically discharges excess liquid without requiring external control signals or mechanical actuators. This self-regulating mechanism eliminates the need for valves and electronic controllers while maintaining precise liquid supply control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical control systems (valves and electronic controllers) with a simple passive mechanical structure (the overflow distributor with distributor limit). The liquid level control is achieved through the inherent overflow mechanism rather than active mechanical components, significantly simplifying the device while maintaining control precision.
2Ease of operation
If valves and electronic controllers are used to manage liquid supply, then liquid supply control is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The overflow distributor automatically performs liquid supply regulation without requiring manual operation or external control systems. The device self-adjusts liquid flow based on the liquid level in the block storage element, making operation trivial while avoiding complex control mechanisms.
3Measurement precision
If valves and electronic controllers are used to manage liquid supply, then liquid supply precision is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical and electronic control systems with a simple passive overflow structure. This eliminates valves, actuators, and electronic controllers that would require maintenance and repair, while maintaining precise liquid supply control through the inherent overflow mechanism. The simplified structure with fewer moving parts dramatically improves ease of repair.
4Device complexity
If a simple overflow structure is used, then device complexity is reduced, but liquid supply precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The overflow distributor is designed with a distributor limit that enables automatic liquid level sensing and regulation. When liquid reaches the distributor limit, it overflows and discharges excess liquid, creating a self-regulating system that maintains precise liquid supply control without requiring complex external control mechanisms. The precision is achieved through the carefully designed overflow geometry and distributor limit positioning.
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 simplifies the design and operation of block storage elements by providing a precise and targeted liquid supply to the tub area without the need for complex components, reducing maintenance and operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
the liquid is throttled by at least one passageway arranged in the distributor limit
Implementation Method 2
liquid that is not drained by way of the at least one passageway is discharged via the overflow
Data Source
AI summary
A block storage element including a tub area, an overflow; and an overflow distributor having a distributor limit with at least one passageway to the tub area. A first cross section of the at least one passageway is smaller than a second cross section of the overflow.