Concrete Paver Fogging System Tool-Free Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated carriage fogging systems for concrete pavements face issues such as spraying disruptions, clogged sprayer heads, and difficulty in adding or removing sprayers, leading to frequent repairs and downtime.
Innovation Solution
A separate non-galvanized sprayer head mounting bar and individual flow rate controlled valves are integrated into the system, along with a clamp-on sprayer head mount and quick release water distribution junction, allowing for tool-free reconfiguration and reduced clogging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If galvanized water distribution and sprayer mounting bars are mounted to the finishing carriage, then the fogging system can be assembled, but spraying disruptions occur frequently requiring immediate repairs
Solution Approach 1:
The water distribution system is segmented into separate non-galvanized bars that can be independently replaced without affecting the entire system. Each bar can be removed and replaced individually, allowing continuous operation during repairs of single components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive non-galvanized bars that can be easily replaced when damaged. These disposable-like components prevent system-wide failures and allow for quick replacement rather than complex repairs, minimizing downtime.
2Ease of manufacture
If sprayer support weldments are positioned above the H-frame, then the sprayers can be mounted, but adding or removing new sprayers becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from fixed weldments to dynamic, removable mounting bars with quick-release mechanisms. This allows the sprayer configuration to be easily changed by simply removing and reattaching bars, providing adaptability without requiring complex disassembly procedures.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple sprayers are mounted on a single bar, then the fogging coverage is improved, but a failure in one sprayer affects all sprayers on that bar
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the sprayer mounting into separate, independent bars rather than mounting multiple sprayers on a single bar. This segmentation ensures that a failure in one sprayer or one bar does not affect other sprayers, maintaining reliable operation across the entire fogging system.
4Ease of manufacture
If traditional spray head mounts are used, then the sprayers can be attached, but reconfiguration requires tools and time
Solution Approach 1:
The quick-release mechanisms and clamp-on designs allow the spray head mounts to be self-adjusting and self-securing. Operators can reconfigure the system without requiring specialized tools, as the quick-release mechanisms automatically lock and secure the spray heads in place.
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 design reduces the frequency of urgent repairs, minimizes downtime, and enhances the ability to reconfigure the fogging system economically, ensuring consistent hydration of concrete pavement surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of spray heads each coupled to a support structure coupled to and supported by said carriage, wherein said support structure does not act as a pipe, through which said fluid flows
Data Source
AI summary
A concrete paver system with a reconfigurable hydration system which utilizes a plurality of individually flow controllable spray nozzles, which are clamped on support structures, which also support objects being dragged across a top surface of concrete which is being finished. The plurality of flow controllable spray nozzles being configured to be moved about said hydration system so as to change a pattern of water vapor application, all without the use of tools.